Southern Pines Recreation and Parks Department announced its listing of summer camp offerings last week.

"It's hard to believe that summer is just around the corner, considering the cool temperatures that we are experiencing, but before you know it, school will be out and parents will be looking for summer camps and activities to keep children busy," says Sue Gillis of Southern Pines Recreation Department. "I e-mailed registration forms to past participants last week, and the response has been brisk."

Summer Explorers, full day camp for ages 5-7 and 8-13, begins its first of nine sessions on June 14. KinderFun Camp, for ages 3-6, begins its first of six sessions on June 21.

New this summer is Fire Academy Camp, held in conjunction with Southern Pines Fire Department and open to youth ages 8-13. This exciting camp will train campers in the daily operations of being a firefighter. For the more science-minded, Engineering Explorations Camp is perfect for ages 7-10. This two-day camp will offer a multitude of hands-on experiments in a teamwork environment.

Tried-and-true favorite camps such as junior cheerleading, clay, summer fun, aqua nuts and many more can be found in the Spring/Summer 2010 Brochure and online at www.southernpines.net.

"Register early as camps tend to fill rather quickly," says Gillis. "If you are not planning on taking any major vacations this summer, and even if you are, our great day camps really do make summer extra special for your children."

Preregistration is required for the activities. Contact the Southern Pines Recreation and Parks Department at (910) 692-2463 for details or visit southernpines.net/recreation.