IMPACT
We're a voice for the value of parks and recreation in our community, supporting our City's Parks & Recreation staff and other providers of programs and places to play and enjoy.
Through events, fundraisers, collaborative efforts and with donations from individuals like you, we raise funds to support great causes in our community. Continue reading to learn more about past, ongoing and upcoming projects and how you can get involved.
Double Peak Challenge
In partnership with the City of San Marcos and many community sponsors, the 10th annual event will take place on September 20, 2025. The Double Peak Challenge is an outdoor recreation experience like no other. It brings together San Marcos and neighboring runners together for an amazing challenge amid the panoramic views of North County's highest point. Event proceeds benefit The Friends of San Marcos and the Boys & Girls Club of San Marcos.
Jack's Pond Nature Center Renovations
The Friends of San Marcos funded $6,000 in renovations at the Jack's Pond Nature Center, which bring the rooms current and relevant to all things San Marcos. The improvements included new paint, equipment, supplies and props for the 10 educational rooms.
Bradley Park Pump Track
Stay tuned for the future opening of the Bradley Park Pump Track! The Friends of San Marcos contributed $10,000 to the project, making life better by offering a new bike park opportunity to the community.
Montiel Dog Park Agility Equipment
The Friends of San Marcos donated the dog agility equipment for the newly renovated Montiel Dog Park, which fosters social cohesiveness in our community by celebrating diversity and providing spaces for people and our furry friends to come together.
Bags 'n' Brews Cornhole Tournament
The Bags 'n' Brews Cornhole Tournament is a fundraising event open to the public in partnership with the City of San Marcos Parks & Recreation department. Proceeds raised from this event go to general projects and programs of the San Marcos Parks & Recreation department. The inaugural event was May 4, 2019 and the 7th annual event will be held on May 2, 2026.
Recreation Scholarships
The City of San Marcos Parks & Recreation department offers a scholarship program that is 100% funded by the Friends of San Marcos. This program provides up to $10,000 annually in scholarships for San Marcos residents. Those who qualify are able to participate in programs, activities and events offered by the department.
Nature Center Field Trips for Title 1 Schools
The Friends of San Marcos funded entry fees for field trips, in partnership with Vallecitos Water District, for San Marcos Unified School District's Title 1 first grade classes.
Open Recreational Swim
In response to budget cuts due to the 2020 Pandemic, the City reached out to offer the Friends of San Marcos the opportunity to fund part-time staff hours to open Cerro de Las Posas Pool on a limited schedule during summer 2020.