Photo Courtesy of Friends of Lake Darling

With just over a week remaining in August, and the Labor Day holiday around the corner, chances for Summer recreation are winding down. While the number of days unofficially left in the Summer season may be small, Zach Haworth, Park Ranger at Lake Darling State Park near Brighton, says there’s still time and welcomes you to the park.

Haworth says, “Right now tends to bring a lot of people out. The park has a lot to offer people this time of year. We’ll see where things shake out at the end of the year, it’s been a great summer so far. We would like to thank everyone that comes out to the park. We encourage folks to come out and recreate safely. We’re always excited when people come visit the park. We want to know what we can do, or how we can make their experience that much better.”

Lake Darling State Park offers a 13.6 mile trail that encircles the lake, open to hikers, runners, bikers and more that passes through woodlands, wetlands, native prairie and an 1800s era cemetery. The Lake Darling beach is available for swimmers and sunbathers. Boat rental opportunities through the Lake Darling Boat House continue, including paddleboats, row boats, canoes, kayaks, stand-up boards and motorboats. The park also remains a premier site for fishing including catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, bullheads, bluegills and carp with opportunities for anglers along the jetty, fishing trail or pier. Lake Darling also hosts several rental opportunities for a shorter, or long term stays, including shelters overlooking the lake, the day-use lodge which is popular for reunions, parties and weddings, and campground with full hook-up electric and non-electric sites with shower and restroom facilities. There are also cabins available for rent with options that include space for four, refrigerator, microwave, bunk beds and futon, and the new year-round cabins which feature a kitchen, bathroom, shower, deck and queen bed. For more information on getaway opportunities at Lake Darling, or to make a reservation, visit friendsoflakedarling.org.