In Your Own Backyard (IYOB) is a City of Sarnia Community Services initiative that will consist of several series. Kicking off this initiative is the IYOB Park Series.
Community Services created the IYOB Park Series as a fun way to educate the citizens of Sarnia about our city’s abundance of parks and their amenities. The Park Series is a three-pillar program that is age-friendly, can be done at your leisure, and is free. The first pillar, DISCOVER, is an educational component where we introduce you to the many parks available to you in the city of Sarnia. Next, we invite you to EXPLORE some of our city parks through three themed adventures taking you around the city, prompted by signs and clues at each park along the way. Now that you know all about our city parks and their amenities, it is time to ENGAGE. The third pillar of the IYOB Park Series is the ongoing engagement in recreational activities and community improvement opportunities throughout the year.
We hope you enjoy all there is to discover and explore and that you take the time to engage in all our beautiful city has to offer.
Pillar I – DISCOVER
Did you know the City of Sarnia has 1,000 acres of parkland and open space, over 40km of trails, and 95 parks?
Parks positively affect the local economy, our health, and our environment. Parks also instill their community with a sense of pride. At 174 acres, Canatara Park is Sarnia’s largest and most famous park, but do you know where and what amenities the other 94 parks have to offer?
Follow us on social media to discover a new park every week right here in your own backyard or download the Parks Master List.
Pillar II – EXPLORE
Time to test your knowledge and go on an adventure!
Parks, recreation programs and services positively affect the environment by producing habitat for wildlife and provide a place for children and families to connect with nature and experience the outdoors together.
We invite you to EXPLORE some of our city parks through three themed adventures taking you around the city, prompted by signs and clues at each park along the way. Each theme contains a set of three parks; however, these are choose-your-own-adventures and can be explored at your own pace – you decide how many parks you want to discover at a time, 1, 2, or 3.
History
You have chosen a history-themed adventure! Once you have solved the clue below, you will have discovered the first park you will explore. When you reach this park, be on the lookout for In Your Own Backyard signage containing more to learn about the park and CLUE #2.
CLUE #1: This park, nestled in Mitton Village, was named after a family who made numerous contributions to the City, including donating half the funds to purchase Canatara Park.
Recreation
You have chosen a recreation-themed adventure! Once you have solved the clue below, you will have discovered the first park you will explore. When you reach this park, be on the lookout for In Your Own Backyard signage containing more to learn about the park and CLUE #2.
CLUE #1: This park is particularly known for its pool and splash pad, but there are a lot of ways to be active here! From skateboarding and pickleball, to baseball and basketball, this park has it all!
Nature
You have chosen a nature-themed adventure! Once you have solved the clue below, you will have discovered the first park you will explore. When you reach this park, be on the lookout for In Your Own Backyard signage containing more to learn about the park and CLUE #2.
CLUE #1: This park is one of the City’s most plentiful parks, featuring ball diamonds, soccer fields, multi-purpose courts, a dog park, and more! All of these amenities often overshadow the park’s truly hidden gem – it’s winding, award-winning gardens.
Please note: Each of the three parks in this theme is large and has multiple entrances. You will find the In Your Own Backyard sign and next clue located directly at each park’s highlighted attraction.
Now that you’ve seen the clues and determined your destination, it is time to explore. Set out on foot, or maybe by bicycle, the goal is to be active while discovering all our city’s parks and amenities. When you arrive, be on the lookout for more facts on your current location and the next clue positioned on a sign around the park.
Pillar III – ENGAGE
Coming Soon!