Everyone has been in the same spot. Pesach Chol Hamoed is coming and what are we going to do with the family and how much can we budget? I’ve been there and done that! Our family found that we could do some free outdoor activities and that enriched and entertains the family. That relieves the pressure of what we are doing every day and allows you to save up for one or two paid activities. (See our list of fun family activities-link)
- Tel Azeka is historically famous for the battle that took place there between David and Goliath. (Shmuel 1,17, 50) The parking is very accessible by paved roads. https://maps.app.goo.gl/wPADBzyFimL28rNs6 The parking area has handicapp accessible benches and BBQ areas. The access from there to the hilltop is not handicap accessible. The views are amazing. Items worth noticing are the sun dial with maps that show everything in sight. The quotes from Sefer Shmuel are a great way to get into the headspace of what happened there. I recommend bringing those sections in English to read it to the family in their main language. Binoculars are also a great tool, as you can see all the major cities and even the ocean.
- A hike from RBS towards Bet Jamal will take you through valleys, fields, and old olive orchards. You are likely to see many birds, including Eagles. Keep your eyes open, and you might see jackals. They are afraid of humans and will flee! Follow this trail to get to the burial site of a Sheik. The domed structure sits on a high spot, and the views are great! https://maps.app.goo.gl/qkeLisTwXh1C5dQg7 ADD PIC. Not wheelchair accessible or stroller friendly. If walking from the monastery parking lot, this is only about a 15-minute walk.
- Park Eucalyptus or Park Taboot is a great play space for families. Often, there is water nearby that allows the kids to search for tadpoles and frogs. Bring towels to clean up! There is also a basketball court and slides, and swings. A great location to walk to from Bet Shemesh or drive. It is slightly lower than RBS so keep in mind that the return trip may be too much. We often split up, and I walked or rode bikes with the kids, and my wife met us with a car and picnic. Whoever needs a ride home, go with mommy! Either start walking from wherever you are and head towards the fields that are below Nahar Dan and Bet Jamal. In the middle of that valley is a dirt road that leads to the park. Or park off the roundabouts on Nahar Dan, cross to the downhill side, and find the dirt road. Or drive to the Park. https://maps.app.goo.gl/jnVeRaMxQ2pazu4h8 This park is wheelchair accessible. There are fire pits and NO bathrooms.
- The Swimming Spot near Park Eucalyptus. This is accessible by two-wheel drive cars. The best way is to take the exit from Road 38 to the Bet Jamal Monastery, https://maps.app.goo.gl/vvZ1YYmm95LS9QhP9. From here proceed on the dirt road that parallels the 38, head North about 5 minutes. When you see the tall Eucalyptus trees, the creek and swimming spot is under them. Swim at your own risk. The water is not handicap accessible. People do make BBQs here. https://maps.app.goo.gl/YFTLhD1VHNsZSDYK6
- Hike the hills behind Yishi. Everyone has been to Yishi to see Davida’s petting Zoo. Expand your horizons and go all the way through Yishi until the road becomes a dirt road. https://maps.app.goo.gl/1rF24AgdeFAmMUo67?g_st=awb From here drive the dirt road for about ten minutes. The right side is field after field of citrus fruits. Enjoy the smell! On the left will be a steep road with a tall fence on the left. That is your sign to park nearby and climb to the top of the road. Not for toddlers. At the top is a large millstone that marks the beginning of the trail. The trail follows the ridge and offers spectacular views. Often shaded. On the drive to the location, look through the high fence on your left, and maybe you will spot the Greater Kudu that live in the Military Base.
. No wheelchair access or toilets. 
Tel Soco is a historic site that sits on a hilltop that offers a great climb and exploration. In the spring, the area is covered in Turmus flowers and people come from all over the country to see them. Park here and climb to the top of the mountain. Watch for old mosaic floors in the middle of the trail that leads to the hilltop. Tons of ceramic shards can be found in this area. No wheelchair access or toilets. https://maps.app.goo.gl/muu8ZRCRNrpXqixy8
