Playing in the backyard or running around the neighborhood is a common, everyday event for most kids. But sometimes they cry boredom or you just want to get out of the house for a while. When this happens, heading to a park is usually the obvious choice.
Brick City Adventure Park (BCAP) in Ocala can be an excellent choice, if you're looking to go to the park. It was originally purchased by Marion County in 1991, and in 2008, Marion County Parks and Recreation Department took over management and revitalized it. They have done an excellent job of it.
The park features a playground with fairly new equipment, all painted and well cared for. Covered pavilions featuring picnic tables, as well as benches and bleachers provide ample seating for adults who are just along for the ride.
Speaking of bleachers, the park also features a ¼ mile paved track, ideal for walking, jogging or running. It's also perfect for sending that high energy kid on a few laps that just might wear him out for bedtime tonight.
There is a low ropes course, with plans to also put in a high ropes course and zip lines. Where are the zip lines going to be? That's the unique part of BCAP - there are two limerock quarries on the grounds. The quarries are no longer in use, and actually are forested over. The larger of the two is roughly seven acres across and has some drop-offs of 40'.
The quarries are not right next to the playground, so you can let your children run free on the playground and track without fear. If you'd like to see the quarries, you can just take a short walk behind the playground down the road, and you'll be there. There are boardwalks to keep visitors safe and away from the rim. Erosion of the rim does require frequent repairs to the boardwalks, but there's really no safety concern here, and it's a beautiful, unique view.
The south, or smaller, pit contains the White Cliff Cave. This is a cave that you can explore, provided it is unlocked and open. This can be an exciting experience, as long as no one in your family is claustrophobic or agoraphobic.
BCAP is an urban park set in Ocala, but has the expansive, wide open feel of any country setting. With plenty to do, look at, and explore, there is definitely something here for everyone in your family. It's a great way to pass a Saturday, or any other day of the week, for that matter.
Brick City Adventure Park is located at 1211 SE 22nd Rd. in Ocala. As with all Marion County parks, it is open daily year round from sunrise to sunset. If you have any questions about the park, feel free to call 352-671-8560.
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