Most people have driven past Ashby Recreation Area (ARA) — known to many as “Ashby Pool” — a thousand times without giving it a second thought. But I ask you to stop and consider the possibility of a sweet, refreshing spot for the whole family to hang out during the summer months. Tucked away off Mount Crawford Avenue in Bridgewater, drive up the private street and into a wide open space with peaceful countryside views adjacent to endless greenery. Behold, a fabulous little known members-only pool and recreation area that has been around for over fifty years.

1: Hello, Staycation!

Escaping town for a vacation can be a budget breaker, even if just for a long weekend. For $325, your entire family can enjoy time at ARA all summer. Go for as little or as long as you like, every single day, through Labor Day. Now that sounds like a vacation!

2: Become a Better Swimmer

The morning hours are reserved for swim team practice and private swimming lessons. Children and adults alike can perfect their pool prowess all summer long.

3: More Than Just a Pool

Aptly named Ashby Recreation Area because of its basketball court, tennis court, fire pit, playgrounds, corn hole, shuffleboard, slack line, slide, cabana, picnic shelter, and large grassy space. If you get sick of the water, simply enjoy the rest of the amenities!

4: Snack Bar

Fear not, food is involved. The snack bar serves up cold drinks, snow cones, candy, popcorn, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, fries, nachos, crackers, chips, and ice cream. Yum!

5: Friendly Faces

Chances are, you already know a member, so you’ll be sure to see a friendly face on your visit. If not, the lifeguards are super friendly, too. Go ahead, give ’em a smile and a wave.

This is truly a gem of a place hiding in one of Harrisonburg’s most popular suburbs. Take advantage of this sweet spot, enjoy the sunshine, cool off in the pool, play to your heart’s content.

Membership Fees (2015)

Lifetime Membership Fee
Family: $600
Senior (65+): $300
Single (21+): $300

Annual Assessment Fee
Family: $300
Senior: $250
Single: $225

Summer Season Pass
Family: $325
Senior: $275
Single: $250
(Summer Pass increases the 2nd summer by $100)

** Payment options and PayPal available **

Misc Fees
Late Fee after May 1: $50
Inactive Fee: $50
Book of 10 Guest Passes: $30
Guest Pass: $4
After 5pm Guest Pass: $2
Teen Night (non members): $2
Lap Swim (non members): $2
Pool Rental: $125 ($175 for non members)