I know that this has been a long time project in the making and it has finally opened. This park…read moreis the first state park in several decades and sits on some old land that I was told used be owned by a very wealthy individual. The old foundations and landscaping tiers are still visible along the lake trail that has picnic tables along the trail.
There are trails a plenty in this park, many that lead for several miles and it is very horse friendly. It is a very steep hill to the top but it is paved and traverses easily with an RV or camper in tow. There are equestrian campsites at the base level, the same level as headquarters, and they sit at the base of the dam that holds the lake in. Tho from here the lake is not visible, but a short walk along the right side of the dam along an access road and it becomes accessible by foot or horse.
Going up the hill you see some good views of the valley and canyon, there is a train line that runs along the north end and winds through the western valley between the peaks of the hills and mountains. At the top there is a four way stop. Go straight and you go down a steep hill to the lake. To the right is a the Pavillion and day use area, a walk in camp site area, and the trailhead area. To the left is the RV and camper parking with full hookups.
The lake area is very pretty. I believe it was said it's a 90 acre lake, no motors are allowed but it believe electric motors are. This lake has been untouched for 11 years and has also been stocked several times during those years. It's a 5 fish limit consisting of any fish but only ONE can be a large mouth bass. This was per the park ranger on site. Parking is tiered in 3 areas, boat slip is long, there is an also a floating dock to launch canoes and kayaks, with a special slip for handicap access. The trail that leads to the location of the original home (house is gone) has several picnic tables with grills and have some really good views. There is a fish station to clean, scale, or do whatever needed to the fish that are caught.
The RV/Camper section on the top of the hill has concrete parking with concrete padded shelters, fire ring, lantern pole, and the tent area is lined with boulders/rocks and filled with DG, meaning no dirt to track inside your tent should you choose to be in a tent.
Day use areas have shelters with tables and grills, there is one large pavilion with a large fire ring for sitting, a fireplace, large overhead fans, and even wi-fi. Yes, they do have wifi, use it, cell service is VERY limited here.
Trails are all over the place, the long walks in the woods is best access at the southern most location, or trailhead. Again, friendly to horse, just be aware that there are rattlesnakes, wild boar, coyotes, and the larger version of wild cats in the area (bob cats for sure).
This is a great looking area, camping is really nice. It's rugged yet very organized looking. It's a great place to visit.
