Patch's Picks: Picnic Spots

Spring is finally here, so it's time to head out to the local parks and start enjoying the nice weather. The parks are open from dusk to dawn for all St. Clair Shores residents. Pack a lunch, grab the kids and head outside for the day.

has a picnic area, swings and lots of other playground equipment as well as access to the beach and restrooms. If you're planning a party, or just a big group picnic, with a group permit you can get one table per 10 people, up to 10 tables. There is a pavillon, but it is granted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Blossom Heath Park is located on Jefferson south of 10 mile, behind the Blossom Heath Inn.

Group permits can also be used at , located at Jefferson and Masonic Blvd. Permit holders can hold up to 10 tables, and 10 people per table ( the same as Blossom Heath). They also have a pavillon but this one is for permit holders only. In addition to the picnic area, there are plenty of things to keep the kids busy. There are swings, beach access, a fishing area and the Splash Zone water play area. Public restrooms are available.

offers both covered and uncovered picnic areas, just in case rain decides to interrupt your picnic. There is a volleyball net, so you can bring a big group or challenge other picnickers. There is also a pool, water slide, boat launch and boat harbor. Lac Ste. Claire Park is located just south of 11 mile on Jefferson, behind the library and City Hall.

, on Harper north of Masonic Blvd., has a little something for all sports lovers. Head over to the picnic area for lunch, and when you're done, you can work it off on the tennis courts or basketball courts. There are also baseball diamonds and horseshoe courts. Public restrooms are available.

If you've got a group of kids eager to get out of the house, head to . They have picnic areas but also swings and other playground equipment. If they have energy to burn, send them over to the soccer field.

Group park permits can be purchased for $75 for use at Blossom Heath, Veterans Memorial and Wahby parks. This allows residents to rent tables for bigger groups. Individual passes can be purchased as well. For seniors, 62 years of age and older can buy a day pass for $5, $7 for two passes. Adults 18-61 years of age can buy a day pass for $7, $10 for two. Minors are included in the adult day passes.

Blossom Heath, Veterans Memorial and Lac Ste. Claire parks are resident-only, but non-residents can use the park as a guest of resident.

Passes and group permits can be purchased at the Civic Arena, 20000 Stephens. For more information on rates and rentals, call (586) 445-5350. A full list of the city's parks can be found at www.scsparksrec.net.