Just a reminder, we are getting into "guilt trip season"
What's a "guilt trip"? It's where parents realize that school is quickly approaching and they haven't done squat with their kids all summer -- so as a last resort they throw everyone in the car and take them to the local park. They are upset all day due to the long lines, "expensive prices", high heat, and the fact (this the parents) that they have to be there in the first place. They don't think of anyone but themselves and are like bulls in a china shop trying to SEE EVERYTHING and are upset if they have to wait because THEY'RE ON VACATION **** IT!
So just remember that when you go to the parks. They will be busier and full of people who are ruder than normal... but just smile at them and think to yourself "it's almost harvest festival" -- a magical time when people who enjoy the park because the park is awesome reemerge and don't have to deal with the "tourists"
You're right, the park will get busier as the start of school approaches. I don't think all these people are deadbeat parents who are on a "guilt trip", however. When my sisters and I were still in school we went every August because that's when we all could go. We planned it every year in advance. I'm sure there are a lot of families that do that. With softball, baseball, summer camps and sports camps, the 4th, etc. this is just the best time for many families to go. I'm sure most of the parents are not angry they have to be there with their kids in the first place. Most really enjoy it, but the bad apples always stand out more, don't they? Well at least there's more revenue for the park we love to operate and expand.
Now that we are all grown up we go in June because it is a better time to go, then pick one other random time a year to head down.
I agree that it's dumb when people are surprised to find the park busy and get mad about it, however.
