Deep River County Park and
Transcription
Deep River County Park and
LAKE COUNTY PARKS Pathfinder FRE E SPRING/ SUMMER 2016 March - August Bellaboo’s Play & Discovery Deep River Waterpark Earth, Water and Sky Golf Club, Disc & Foot Grinders Play 1860s Base Ball Maple Syrup Time Sweet Veteran Memorial Voyageur Rendezvous Walk the Parks Lakecountyparks Lake County (Indiana) Parks “Just Poking” Photo by Dennis Gray Lake County Parks See the web at www.lakecountyparks.com Email us at [email protected] Call us at 219-769-PARK CONTENT 2 Lake County Parks and Recreation Department EXTRA SPECIAL DOINGS 100 Years of the Buckley Barn . . . . . . 25 Deep River Grinders Vintage Base Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Golf – Club, Disc & Foot . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 July is Parks and Recreation Month. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Legend of Sleepy Hollow . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Maple Syrup Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 & 14 Memorial Day Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Voyageur Rendezvous. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Walk the Parks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 FOR KIDS AND TEENS American Red Cross Guard Start Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 American Red Cross Learn to Swim Program . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center. . . . . . . . . . . . 23 & 24 Camp Bellaboo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Insect Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Junior Golf Lessons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Scouts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 & 14 Wednesday Adventures. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 RECREATION Buckley 5 Miler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Cedar Creek Golf Programs . . . . . . . . 11 CSRI Wheelchair Accessible Hayride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 EARTH, WATER & SKY Big May Day Bird Count . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Calumet Astronomical Society Public Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Great Lakes Water Safety. . . . . . . . . . 10 I Spy a Dragonfly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Nature BINGO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Severe Weather Spotter Training Workshop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 PLANTS, GARDENS AND BIRDS Fruit Tree Pruning and Grafting. . . . . . . 7 Native American Gardening . . . . . . . . . 7 For information on events listed on this calendar, or to be added to the Pathfinder mailing list, please call 219-769-PARK. Mission Statement for the Lake County Parks: The Mission of the Lake County Parks and Recreation Board is to create and responsibly manage a county-wide system of parks and open space resources, and to provide recreational, cultural and educational programs based on these resources for the use and enjoyment of the Lake County residents and visitors. Spring Perennial Plant Swap. . . . . . . . . 7 Sunflower Saturdays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Wild Ones and Native Plant Sale. . . . . . 7 ARTS, PHOTOGRAPHY AND HISTORY Basket Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Early History 18th Century Fur Trade Era. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Group Tours of Wood’s Historic Grist Mill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Indiana History Tours at Buckley Homestead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Lake County Parks Photography Club. 6 Maple Syrup Travel through Nature, Science & History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Outdoor Ed Reserved Groups Gibson Woods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Sheep Shearing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Thursdays with the Miller . . . . . . . . . . . 6 PARKS Addresses & Directions. . . . . . . . 15 & 18 Banquet on the Green. . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Buckley Homestead Hours. . . . . . . . . 29 Deep River Waterpark. . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Dogwood Run Off-leash Area. . . . . . . 30 Fishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Gibson Woods Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Golf Fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Hunter’s Education Safety Courses . . 28 Lake Etta Banquet Hall & Wedding Pergola. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Map & Park Addresses. . . . . . . . . 16-17 Rentals & Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-31 Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Wedding Gazebo at Deep River . . . . . 25 Wood’s Historical Grist Mill and Visitor Center Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Jim Basala. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CEO BOARD MEMBERS Jim Tonkovich. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . President Christopher Dilts. . . . . . . . . Vice President Hester Cannon George Kolletis Janet Reed Lawrence Turnquist Louis Casale . . . . . . . . . . . Board Attorney The Pathfinder is posted on the web page at www.lakecountyparks.com in PDF format. TELEPHONE DIRECTORY Area Code (219) for all numbers Business Office Reservations & Registration . . . . . . . 769-PARK M-F 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.. . . . . . FAX: 945-0452 Park Operations Division . . . . . . . . 947-PARK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 947-7210 Programs & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . 947-PARK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 947-7210 Natural Resources Division . . . . . . 769-PARK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 947-0650 Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center at Three Rivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 963-2070 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 963-1030 Buckley Homestead Visitor Center & Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 696-0769 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 696-3076 Cedar Creek Family Golf Center . . . 365-2902 Deep River Wood’s Mill. . . . . . . . . . . 947-1958 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 947-7105 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maintenance: 942-6710 Deep River Waterpark & Special Facilities Division. . . . . . . . . 947-7850 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 947-7349 Gibson Woods Nature Preserve. . . . 844-3188 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 844-1429 Grand Kankakee Marsh Hunter Check-In Cabin & Maintnance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 552-0033 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 552-9153 Lake Etta . . . . . . . . . . . . Gatehouse: 944-7461 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maintenance: 944-9601 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 944-1371 Lake Etta Banquet Hall. . . . . . . . . . . 949-6533 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 949-6523 Lemon Lake. . . . . . . . . Maintenance:663-7627 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 663-3665 Oak Ridge Prairie . . . . Maintenance: 884-7238 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 884-1297 Stoney Run Gatehouse & Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 996-6500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 996-6540 Three Rivers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 962-7810 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 963-7988 Turkey Creek Clubhouse and Banquet on the Green. . . . . . . . . . . . 887-3550 Turkey Creek Pro Shop. . . . . . . . . . . 980-5170 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FAX: 980-8101 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maintenance: 980-8101 Whihala Beach Whiting Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 659-0860 WALK THE PARKS A strong body of evidence suggests that physical activity in green spaces has stronger mental health benefits than physical activity in non-green spaces. Being outdoors is associated with decreased health complaints, improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reduced stress, improved general health perceptions and a greater ability to face problems (National Recreation and Park Association/ Parks and Health). From the prairie to the farm; birds, flowers, and who knows what we’ll find – how about taking a walk? 3 Weekly Wednesday Spring Bird Hike Series at Gibson Woods April 13, April 20, April 27, May 4, May 11, May 18, May 25, & June 1 9:30-11 a.m.Free 219-844-3188 to register Lake County Parks naturalist for a series of bird hikes throughout Jtheointhebirdsaspring season. Learn some bird ID tips and find out more about that migrate through and nest in our area. After some of the hikes, participants are welcome to stay to view a video or slide show on a specific bird group (raptors, warblers, etc.) to help more with identification. Bird Migration Hike at Gibson Woods Monthly Saturday Family Nature Walks at Gibson Woods Friday, May 13 8 a.m. FreeAges 10+ 219-844-3188 to register Individual sign-ups only (please no groups) March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, & August 20 9:30 to 11 a.m. Free Sign up at 219-844-3188 any birds returning in the spring are actually considered tropical M birds. Ornithologists believe that these neo-tropical birds are “spreading out” in the spring to find breeding space after spending the et the entire family outdoors and witness the changing seasons G unfold. There is always something new to observe and appreciate in nature. A Lake County Parks naturalist will lead you through the trails of the nature preserve and point out its fascinating flora and fauna. We can’t think of a better way to learn about the natural and cultural history of our area while enjoying time outdoors. Walk the Park at Buckley Homestead Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 6 p.m. April 1 through August 31 Free and Fun Meet at the Visitor Center parking lot or join the group en route as they travel to the 1910 farm and around the historic site (route may vary through the season for variety) B oost your mind; Stay healthy; Connect with friends and neighbors. Starting April 1 (no April fool’s joke) join park manager, Becky Crabb, for a walk in the park. “We will start slowly for a short time (10 minutes) and build speed and distance over the spring and summer weeks,” Crabb explains. You may also walk at your own pace. Having walking buddies has shown that not only do people tend to stick to walking, but they also enjoy the experience more. The goal is to increase health while enjoying the beauty and ambiance of the living history farm. “We will see Donald and Daisy ducks, Joey the ram, Snoopy rabbit, and Buck the horse as we enjoy the flowers and changing of the seasons,” Crabb adds. Woodcock Watch at Oak Ridge Prairie Wednesday, April 6 7:30 p.m. FreeAges 10+ 219-844-3188 to register Individual sign-ups only (please no groups) he American Woodcock is best known for the spectacular flight of the male bird over its breeding grounds occurring at dusk and again at dawn. The birds circle up to hundreds of feet high and then descend in a zigzag flight. Once they have landed, their distinctive “peent” calls penetrate the silence of the evening or early morning hours. Anyone who has witnessed the flight of the woodcock recognizes it as one of the earliest signs of spring. Some woodcocks return as early as February and “perform” while snow is still on the ground. Join us at dusk as we stake out an area to usher in spring with our fascinating crepuscular friend, the American Woodcock. T winter in their true home, the tropics. Birds like warblers, vireos, tanagers, and orioles are among the neo-tropical migrants that can be seen in our area in early to mid-May. Natural areas like Gibson Woods are critically important for these migrants to find the right kinds of foods that help sustain them during their long journey north to their breeding grounds. Join a Lake County Parks naturalist along with other bird enthusiasts to seek out and learn about these colorful migrants. Dress for the weather. Bring binoculars, sturdy shoes, and a field guide. Bird field guides are available at the Gibson Woods gift shop. Bloomin’ and Buzzin’ Nature Hikes at Buckley Homestead Saturdays May 14, June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10, October 15 9 – 11 a.m. eet at the Visitor Center parking lot and hike with Master Gardener M and nature enthusiast Cathy Misch as you discover what flowers are blooming and what herbs are growing. The group will walk to the native bed to check on the results of last year’s plantings. Travels through the 1910 and 1850 farms provide a glimpse of the farm animals, gardens and orchard while the “Back 80” hosts many treasures: hawks, deer, bluebirds, tulip trees, milkweed, compass plant, farm crops . . . Who knows what will be found bloomin’ and buzzin’? Wildflower Walks at Gibson Woods Friday, May 27 and Friday, June 10 9:30 a.m.Ages 10+ 219-844-3188 to register Individual sign-ups only (please no groups) ore than 300 species of native plants are found at Gibson Wood, M including a variety of rare and unique species. Some plants produce a sweet fragrance while others may have an unpleasant smell. Hummingbirds pollinate some plants and some are parasites to other plants. Join a Lake County Parks naturalist for a walk through the nature preserve to learn more about our native flora. See the many varieties of colors and forms that these flowers produce. Gain a few identification tips and discover how flowers are a benefit to the environment. Comfortable shoes and insect repellent are recommended. WALK THE PARKS Continued on page 11 4 SPECIAL EVENTS The Legend of Sleepy Hollow at Buckley Homestead County Park Tickets go on sale at Deep River Waterpark on Wednesday, August 31 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. 2016 Performance Dates: Friday, September 16; Saturday, September 17; Friday, September 23; Saturday, September 24 Tickets: $8 per person (one person may purchase up to 15 tickets) Sales Dates: Opening day ticket sales Wednesday, August 31 (in person sales only) from 5 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. After that time, remaining tickets may be purchased at the business office or by phone at 219-769-PARK M-F 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. REMINDER: Tickets sell out quickly and may be sold out the first day. NO PATIO/BEACH UMBRELLAS ALLOWED in the ticket line; Personal umbrellas only. Sales Location: Deep River Waterpark, 9001 E. U.S. 30 in Merrillville (4.5 miles east of I-65 on Route 30, just east of the Lake County Parks Business Office). Performance Location, Times and Check in: • Evenings at 6:30, 6:50, 7:10, 7:30, 7:50, 8:10, 8:30, 8:50, 9:10, 9:30 p.m. at Buckley Homestead • PARK IN THE VISITOR CENTER LOT ON HENDRICKS ROAD (GPS coordinates 41.283566,-87.377509). Using the Buckley Homestead mailing address will take you to the wrong location. • Check in at the campfire near the Visitor Center at least 15 minutes prior to your performance time. Performances begin PROMPTLY and you don’t want to be left behind. If you get to the park after your tour has begun you will not be able to join your tour. Meet the Townsfolk: For four magical nights, Buckley Homestead is transformed into Tarrytown, NY, a quiet, dreamy little village known to many as Sleepy Hollow. The village abounds with stories and superstitions, the most famous of which is of a Hessian soldier who lost his head in the war and rides each night in search of a new one. Perhaps you’ve heard of the Headless Horseman? Visitors will walk with a guide through Sleepy Hollow as they meet and interact with the townsfolk in search of Ichabod Crane, the one person who can tell them all about the stories of this quaint village. You become part of the storybook scenes, but be careful! There’s no telling what may cross your path in the night besides the occasional black cat. It may be the Headless Horseman himself! This program is a great way to experience the excitement of classic literature come to life. Be prepared for your journey: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is outdoors and requires walking a bark chip trail lit by luminaries. It has proven a challenge for those who have walking difficulties. NOT RECOMMENDED for those who have a hard time walking the uneven and hilly ground or for strollers. A short hayride is part of the program if trail conditions permit. If not, we will walk the entire nearly one mile trail. Wheelchairs have made it around the trail if conditions are dry but will have to follow the hayride as there is no room on the hay wagon for the wheelchair. Visitors should dress for the weather. Lanterns will light your way during the night program. Dress for the weather and be ready to walk. I Spy a Dragonfly! Learn about Dragonflies common to Lake County. Then, throughout the spring and summer, take a hike at selected locations to practice identifying the various species present that day. Required registration at 219-844-3188 closes two days prior to each activity. Cameras and binoculars encouraged; NO NETTING of dragonflies allowed. Ages 15+ strictly enforced. Suggested resource: Dragonflies of Indiana by James R. Curry will be available for purchase at Gibson Woods. Fee: $10.00 for lecture and all Saturday naturalist-led hikes. Note: sunny days are best. Walks will be automatically cancelled on rainy days. Lecture on dragonflies common to Lake County, Indiana Gibson Woods Wednesday, April 27 6 p.m. Saturday Dragonfly walks at 10 a.m. Gibson Woods May 21, June 11, August 27, & September 10 Oak Ridge Prairie Fishing Pond June 18, August 20 Tuesday Additional Dragonfly Walks 10 to noon Gibson Woods May 3, 10, 17 24, 31, June 7, 14, 21, 28, Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 & Sept 13, 20, 27 DEEP RIVER GRINDERS 5 VINTAGE BASE BALL – HUZZAH! “Extra, Extra, Extra” Get your Deep River Register hot off the presses at each home game on sale for only one penny. Chock-full of Grinder details, little known facts, and Deep River General Store coupon it is money well spent. When the umpire declares, “striker to the plate,” the match begins. It is unlike most games of base ball, as it’s limited to the original 37 rules of 1858. The striker is out if the ball is caught on the fly or on one bound, fair or foul. There are no called balls and strikes and no gloves. Enjoy America’s game as 2015 team photo by Tony Hailey it should be played . . . by gentlemen. Pack up the lawn chairs or blankets for seating, bring a picnic lunch and the entire family. Following each home game children line up to take their turn at bat and run the base paths while Grinders play the field. One little guy told the players, “When I grow up I want to be a Grinder.” Isn’t that what base ball is all about? Don’t miss this year’s Deep River Grinders games. They are a treat for young and not-so-young alike. Free home games are played at 2 p.m. on Grinder Field across the river from Wood’s Historic Grist Mill at Deep River County Park. Purchase an ice cold bottle of sarsaparilla, relax, and shout “Huzzah!” for good plays from both teams. Deep River Grinders 2016 schedule Updates will be posted at LakeCountyParks.com Date Saturday, May 21 Sunday June 12 Sunday June 26 Sunday, July 10 Sunday, July 17 Sunday, August 7 Saturday, August 13 Sunday, August 28 Saturday, September 3 Sunday, September 4 Saturday, September 24 Sunday, October 2 Field of Play 2 p.m. Home Games Away Home Home Home Away Home Away Home Away Away Away Home Friendly Competitors Sunset Hill Colonels at Sunset Hill, Valparaiso, IN Wahoos and the Chicago Salmon Springfield Long Nines Sunset Hill Colonels Chicago Salmon at Lincoln Park Shriners Benefit Game Vermillion County Voles at Danville, IL Vermillion County Voles Ohio Cup at Columbus, OH Ohio Cup at Columbus, OH Rock Springs Ground Squirrels at Decatur, IL Rock Springs Ground Squirrels Big May Day Bird Count Pre-count meeting at Gibson Woods Tuesday May 10 at 6 p.m. Lake County Spring Bird Count Countywide/All Day Saturday, May 14 The objective of the BMDBC is to count the number of birds of each species occurring in a participating county area in a 24-hour period on the second Saturday in May. This data snapshot provides a valuable scientific record of the bird populations occurring each year in Indiana. The results will be compiled, analyzed, and published in the Indiana Audubon Quarterly. More counters are needed, to cover areas in Lake County, including the Lake County Parks. Beginners as well as seasoned birders are encouraged to participate. Don’t be intimidated if you are a beginner, you can be teamed up with more experienced birders. Feeder watchers are also needed for those who prefer armchair birding. Attend the pre-count meeting on Tuesday May 10 to learn about locations and assignments. Call 219-844-3188 for more information. photo by Loyce Fandrei DEEP RIVER 6 Family Fun in the Park Each week brings a new adventure for Family Fun at Deep River County Park and Wood’s Historic Grist Mill. Wednesday Adventures (designed especially for children age 10 and younger and their families) Meet outside the Visitor Center at 10 a.m. Programs are free and reservation not required. First Thursday Mornings with the Miller: On the first Thursday May – October Wood’s Mill opens at 9 a.m. Enjoy a free cup of coffee while you meet the Miller, learn the history Wood’s Mill and see how cornmeal is ground. Don’t forget that Thursdays is senior citizen day (age 60+) in the General Store next door. That means 10% off merchandise including clearance items and our fresh cornmeal for all senior citizens (discount cannot be applied to maple syrup, jellies or butters). Fridays are for nature B-I-N-G-O: Every Friday this summer, stop by the visitor center 10 am -12 pm and pick up your bingo card. Families can take a walk around Deep River and check off what they see. Get four in a row and yell BINGO!! Then return to the visitor center to receive a prize. June 15 Flowers and trees and bugs. OH MY!! Learn about the flowers, trees and bugs found at Deep River County Park and learn why even the mosquitoes help to make this park beautiful. Then kids can get their hands dirty while they help a master gardener around the park. June 22 Build fun with Lincoln Logs Log cabins were the first homes for Indiana settlers like the Wood’s family. Learn how log cabins were built and play with Lincoln Logs. Use the oversized logs for even bigger fun! June 29 Meet the Miller Learn how our miller grinds cornmeal. Then race the miller to see who can make cornmeal the fastest. Do you think you can win? July 6 Old Fashioned Games Play the games that children would play when John Wood and his family lived here. Make a “Whirligig” toy to take home with you. July 13 Fire Safety Learn fire safety with the “Smoke House” and see a real firetruck. Plus stay after the program and be a part of the Bucket Brigade to see how fire fighters from the past put out fires (This activity involves water). July 20 Be a Tree Yoga Sway in the wind and try Yoga poses of only things you can find in the park. Be a tree, butterfly or frog with these fun Yoga moves. July 27 Make your own water wheel!! Learn about water wheels like the one here at Wood’s Mill and then make and test out your own water wheel. It’s going to be WHEELY fun!!! (This activity includes water). Aug 3 Green and Clean Learn about the 3 R’s and how even kids can go green to help the environment. Then practice keeping the park clean with a recycling relay race. Scout leaders can “Build-Your-Own Scout Experience” at Deep River County Park Deep River County Park is the perfect place for scouts to meet requirements towards earning badges that include nature and history. Group tours are $5 per child and include a Deep River County Park Patch (leaders and chaperones are free). The program dates, times, and content are flexible. Deep River also welcomes scout volunteers for short-term projects. Scouts will receive a Deep River County Park patch after project is completed. Call 219-947-1958 for more information about booking your group tour or volunteering. Sunflower Saturdays: Sunflowers are big and bright, but they don’t start out that way. On Sunflower Saturdays families will plant the seed that will grow throughout the season. Did you know that Native Americans used the Sunflower just as we do today for all kinds of things? Sunflower Saturdays is every Saturday in May at 11 a.m. That’s May 7, 14, 21 & 28. Families are invited to visit the park all summer to track how the flowers are growing. Who will be taller by the end of summer . . . you or the sunflower? Lake County Parks Photography Club The free monthly gatherings are held the second Wednesday April – November at 7 p.m. Doors to the Deep River County Park Visitor Center next to Wood’s Historic Grist Mill open at 6:30 p.m. It’s an informal club where photographers from novice to professional share ideas and learn about contests and other events. Members go on shoots together, as well as exhibit their work in the Historic Wood’s Grist Mill during May and June and for a month-long exhibit throughout September at the Lake County Public Library in Merrillville Adult shutterbugs are invited to bring photos of anything related to the meeting topic to share with the group. Bring digitals on a flash drive. If the picture is enhanced using photo editing software it is helpful to also show the out of camera shot. Check details at www.LakeCountyParks. com or call 219-947-1958 Month 2016 Meeting Topics April Adobe Elements May Camera Settings JuneLightroom July Mounting pictures AugustPosing SeptemberSpeedlights OctoberBlack/white November To Be Decided 2016 Show and Tell Topics People/emotions Animals/pets Clocks/signs/doors Graveyards/monuments Action Reflections Portraits Photographers choice PLANTS AND GARDENS 7 Perennial Plant Swaps at Historic Wood’s Mill Spring Swap: Monday, April 11 Fall Swap: Monday, September 12 Saturday, March 5, April 2, June 4 10 a.m. Speaker information was unavailable at the time of printing. For updates visit www.gw-wildones.org. Saturday, May 7 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Native Plant Sale No meetings in July and August ibson Woods Wild Ones is a local chapter of Wild Ones, G Native Plants, Natural Landscapes. Meetings are held at 10 a.m. unless otherwise stated and are open to the public. Since its formation in 2000 the volunteer group has helped educate people of all ages about the benefits of using native plants. Through chapter activities and guest speakers meeting attendees have learned the many aspects of incorporating native plants into their own landscaping. Those who grow native plants have not only brought the beauty of native wildflowers and grasses to their yards, but they have provided a more inviting habitat for butterflies and songbirds. Volunteers help out at the Oak Ridge Prairie native plant nursery and greenhouse growing plants for natural area restoration projects, in addition to helping maintain the native plant gardens at Gibson Woods. Proceeds from the annual spring native plant sale, hosted by the group, help fund resources, projects and programs for Lake County Parks. Join us for one of our informative meetings to learn more about how you can “grow wild” in your own backyard. For more information call 219-844-3188. Gibson Woods Wild Ones 16th Annual Native Plant Sale Gibson Woods Saturday, May 7 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. ative plants are a popular choice for busy gardeners. These easy to care for wildflowers and grasses attract butterflies and birds while making a beautiful display in your yard. Since they are adapted to the local environment, growing them requires less water and fertilizer, which saves money as well. N This year’s sale will offer more than 100 species of wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and ferns (no cultivars). Wild Ones members will be on hand to help you find the right plants for your growing conditions. Plants are sold on a first come first serve basis, so arrive early for the best selection. Proceeds from the sale help fund resources, projects and programs for the Lake County Parks. To obtain a list of plants, call 219-844-3188. eet at Deep River County Park Wood’s Mill parking M lot behind the Visitor Center at 10 a.m. Spring and fall are great times to increase or change plant varieties in your garden. One simple and free way to do that is to swap perennials. So pot your perennials, identify them and bring them to the plant swap to exchange for others. Bring empty containers, too, for plants that may be divided and exchanged. Don’t be late as plants go fast! The general store in the visitor center will be open during the times of the plant swaps. Fruit Tree Pruning and Grafting Workshops Buckley Homestead 1 – 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 8 runing fruit trees increases production both in quality and P quantity of the fruit. Grafting produces a better quality plant. Both techniques will be presented by Purdue University professor, Dr. Peter Hirst. Pruning will be conducted in the Buckley Homestead orchard and the grafting of apple trees will be held in the nearby Buckley barn. The pruning workshop and listening to the grafting is free. A $10 fee will be charged to cover the rootstock for the handson apple grafting workshop. Register for either or both by contacting the Purdue Cooperative Extension Office at 219755-3240 or www.extension.purdue.edu/lake. The deadline for the hands-on grafting workshop is Feb 12. Native American Gardening Buckley Homestead Saturdays June 11 and Aug 13 Noon – 4 p.m. he Three Sisters (corn, beans and squash) are interplanted T to all work together in Native American gardens. The corn stalk serves as a pole for the beans; the beans help add nitrogen to the soil that the corn needs to grow; and the squash provides a ground cover of shade that helps the soil retain moisture. Seasoned Native American heirloom gardener, Cindy Deardorff, will be on hand to share her knowledge of many historic varieties of Native American plants. She specializes in growing and processing these plants in traditional ways. Follow the trail behind the pioneer farm to the Indian Camp to the Cindy Deardorff displays a variety of Indian garden area. seeds from vintage plants 8 MAPLE SYRUP TIME Evapora Sugar S ting water in the hack r g suga Cookinhe open fire over t Deep River County Park Activities 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. March 12-13 & 19-20 Free W hy don’t we make maple syrup in the summer? That’s a question we often hear. The answer is that maple syrup can only be made when Mother Nature presents the opportunity. Maple syrup can only be produced in certain U.S. states and Canada and only at a certain time of the year. Above freezing day temperatures and below freezing night temperatures bring out maple sugar farmers and park staff toting their supply of buckets, spiles, drills, and tubing to tap the trees and gather the sap. Aren’t we lucky to be in a part of the world where climate and conditions allow us to make pure maple syrup? Outdoor Activities • How trees are tapped and sap is collected: Meet in front of the visitor center at 10, 11, 12, 1, 2 & 3 to learn how maple trees are tapped without doing harm to the tree. See the difference between hanging individual buckets at each tap hole or using tubing for multiple connections. • In the Sugar Shack: Stroll to the sugar shack throughout the day where the sap from the tree is boiled, evaporating the water and leaving sweet syrup. The lengthy process goes on for days when conditions are right. • Visit the Voyageurs: Visit with the colorful Voyageur-era volunteers as they make maple sugar over an open fire transferring from pot to pot. Maple sugar sustained Native Americans through many a hard winter. rough tubes Sap flowsf th to buckets instead o in Wood’s Historic Grist Mill • The Miller will be grinding corn into stone-ground cornmeal (sold in the general store next door), challenge your friends to a game of checkers in front of the woodfired stove, and taste Deep River’s pure maple syrup. In the Visitor Center • Video: The classic, entertaining, and informative movie “Maple Sugar Farmer” will be shown at 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30. It’s a part of Americana not to be missed. • General Store: Purchase pure maple syrup, maple sugar candy, and maple souvenirs, as well as Amish-made apple butter, preserves, maple tea and more. Kids love the rock candy sticks, the old-fashioned candy sticks, and the historic toys. Wood’s Historic Grist Mill in Deep River County Park is located at 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart, IN 46342 at the intersection of County Line Road and 73rd Avenue. From I-65 and Route 30 go east 4 miles on Route 30 to Randolph Street, then north to the first stop sign and east to the park. GPS coordinates: Deep River Grist Mill: 41.475944,-87.222285 Looking collectedat the sap in the buc kets GOLF – CLUB, DISC & FOOT 9 Lemon Lake County Park – regional draw for Disc Golfers W FootGolf – addition to traditional game offered at Cedar Creek M ove over little ball, you’re no longer the only ball on the course. Never heard of FootGolf? Not many people have, but the Professional Golf Association looks at this relatively new and somewhat unconventional game as a positive complement to the traditional one; you know the one with the clubs. “It combines elements of soccer and golf on a modified course and we think that Cedar Creek Family Golf Center is the right place to play this new sport,” said Chris Cioroianu, superintendent of park operations for the Lake County Parks. Traditional golf will still be played at Cedar Creek. “We’re just expanding the opportunity for more people to enjoy the course,” added Cioroianu. Both types of golfers are expected to adhere to ball golf etiquette and rules. A #5 or #4 soccer ball can be used. #4 for the younger player. Players are encouraged to bring their own ball, but both size balls will be for sale in the pro shop for $8. There is no ball rental. Just in case you’re wondering what size hole the soccer ball has to fall into, it’s 21 inches in diameter. Lengths of the holes vary from 90 yards to 250 yards. Four of the nine FootGolf holes will be played on the south side of 113th Avenue, an area that until now has not been used. “This will help keep foot golf and ball golf somewhat separate. We are asking foot golfers not to wear outdoor soccer cleats. Indoor soccer or turf shoes are acceptable,” said Cioroianu. The cost for FootGolf is $5 for all ages all times. Walking is encouraged but foot golfers can rent golf carts for $8 per person. (Availability is limited). The Lake County Parks is a member of both the Indiana Foot Golf Association (IFGA) http://indianafootgolf.com/ and the United States Foot Golf Association (USFGA) http://www.usfootgolf.org/ FOOTGOLF “KICK-OFF” for the whole family on Saturday April 30 (rain date May 7) from noon until 4. FootGolf instruction, demo and a chance to get out on the course and play a round. FREE Hot dogs, pop and chips for all attendees. BYOB - Bring your own soccer ball, or buy one in the Pro shop. ith five 18-hole championship courses designed for the beginner to the professional, there is an opportunity for those at any level of play at Lemon Lake. To better serve golfers the Lemon Lake Flight Center Disc Golf Pro Shop and Concessions is located on the park site. Shop owners, Deb and Jay Svitko, carry a range of discs from many of the leading manufacturers including INNOVA, Discraft, Dynamic Discs, DGA, Legacy, Latitude, Westside and Gateway as well as accessories including golf bags, straps, T-shirts, towels, birdie bags, disc golf practice baskets and more. For information about leagues, tournaments, and courses contact the Lemon Lake Flight Center at 219-771-3472 or email lemonlakeflightcenter@yahoo. com. For daily happenings like the Lemon Lake Flight Center on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ lemonlakeflightcenter. See page 30 for fees. Partial proceeds go to support the development of the disc golf courses. Turkey Creek Golf Course S till prefer the traditional way to play golf using clubs and a golf ball? Turkey Creek is a challenging 18 hole, 6,100 yard course featuring hilly, tree-lined fairways with slightly sloping greens. A series of tee locations encourages all levels of golfers to play an enjoyable round. The forward tees are popular with players who don’t quite hit the ball as far as those who would tee off from the traditional white tees. Lest you think that tee placement is arbitrary, consider that water, in the form of Turkey Creek, comes into play on 12 of the 18 holes when playing from the white tees. Playing from the forward ones takes water out of play on six of those holes. It remains a challenging course, but it permits people who don’t drive as far to play a different strategy. Also featured are watered fairways, putting green, pro shop, full-service bar, and snack bar. Fees and online tee time reservations on page 28. See Banquet on the Green info on page 26. EARTH, WATER AND SKY 10 Expand Your Universe at Conway Observatory T he volunteers of the Calumet Astronomical Society invite the public to explore the wonders of the universe when they present their popular family-friendly free public programs. Facilities, including access to the big telescope, are wheelchair accessible. Volunteers guide visitors in the use of telescopes and astronomical binoculars as they observe the majesty of the skies. Star charts, club information, and astronomy-related activities are presented. Please park in the designated visitor parking area. Because observing is conducted in a “lights-out” environment, parents are requested to keep their children under close supervision. Do not use standard flashlights in the observing area. Exposure to white light, even briefly, will seriously impair night vision making observing difficult. Red-filtered flashlights can provide illumination without affecting night vision. You can make a red light by cutting off the end a red balloon and putting it over a standard flashlight. Of Special Note: Observing with telescopes is contingent upon clear weather. Cloudy or inclement weather conditions may cause programs to be cancelled without advance notification. It is suggested that you call the CAS InfoLine, 1-773-639-5491, for updated weather conditions before heading to the event. See www.casonline.org for more information. 2015Day Sunset Moonrise Moonset Moon 3/12 4/9 5/14 6/4 7/23 8/12 8/27 10/8 11/5 Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat Fri Sat Sat Sat 5:54 PM 7:24 PM 8:01 PM 8:19 PM 8:15 PM 7:51 PM 7:30 PM 6:19 PM 5:40 PM 8:29 AM 8:03 AM 1:21 PM 5:12 AM 10:34 PM 4:12 PM 1:27 AM 1:34 PM 12:17 PM 10:28 PM 10:17 PM Next Day 7:46 PM Next Day Next Day 4:14 PM 11:38 PM 10:24 PM 19% wx 8% wx 60% wx NEW 84% wn 77% wx 23% wn 1st Qtr 29% wx Event Exploring Orion Jupiter’s Great Red Spot Searching for Tranquility Base Jupiter and its moons The Rings of Saturn Perseid Meteor Shower Venus-Jupiter Conjunction National Astronomy Day Searching For Andromeda Time 6:30-8 pm 8-10:30 pm 8:30-11 pm 9-11:30 pm 9-11:30 pm 8:30 pm-??? 7-9:30 pm 7-9:30 pm 6:30-9 pm Conway Observatory at Buckley Homestead 19120 Chase Street in Lowell, Indiana is located 4.5 miles west of Interstate 65 just south of Route 2. Exit I-65 west at Rt. 2 toward Lowell to Hendricks Road, then south to the “T” at Belshaw. East (left) on Belshaw to the first right (Chase Street) and south for one mile. Sky Warn – NOAA Severe Weather Spotter Training Gibson Woods Tuesday, April 12 7 p.m. Call 219-844-3188 http://skywarn.org/wp-content/uploads/basicspot.pdf Great Lakes Water Safety Presentation Gibson Woods Sunday, May 15 1 p.m. N SKYWARN® storm spotters are part of the ranks of citizens who form the Nation’s first line of defense against severe weather. There can be no finer reward than to know that their efforts have given communities the precious gift of time – seconds and minutes that can help save lives. orthwest Indiana borders one of the largest lakes in the world. Would you know what to do if you were caught in a rip current? What would you do if you were too tired to swim to shore? What if your watercraft capsized? Could you recognize the signs of a swimmer in trouble? Learning some simple techniques could greatly increase the chance of survival should an accident on water occur. Join us for an informative presentation and bring a family member or friend you care about. Call 219-844-3188 to register. The “Great Lakes Water Safety” presentation will teach participants to: ● understand that drowning is a leading cause of injury and death ● recognize the “Signs of Drowning” & how to identify a person in trouble ● recognize the dangers of the surf environment keeping personal safety as the primary responsibility ● understand dangerous currents; i.e. how, where, and why dangerous currents occur and how to survive them ● understand the “Flip, Float, & Follow” dangerous currents survival strategy ● understand how a flotation device such as a throw ring, throw rope, surfboard or other objects that float can rescue a person in distress or in a dangerous current ● realize the importance of taking a lifesaving, first aid and CPR training from accredited agency NWS encourages anyone with an interest in public service and access to communication, such HAM radio, to join the SKYWARN® program. Volunteers include police and fire personnel, dispatchers, EMS workers, public utility workers and other concerned private citizens. Individuals affiliated with hospitals, schools, churches, nursing homes or who have a responsibility for protecting others are also encouraged to become a spotter. “Skywarn® and the Skywarn® logo are registered trademarks of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, used with permission”. ABOUT THE GLSRP The Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, Inc. (GLSRP) is a nonprofit 501c3 corporation that is a chapter of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) that tracks Great Lakes drowning statistics and has taught more than 130 “Great Lakes Water Safety” presentations (www.GLSRP.org) The effects of severe weather are felt every year by many Americans. To obtain critical weather information, NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, established SKYWARN® with partner organizations. SKYWARN® is a volunteer program with nearly 290,000 trained severe weather spotters. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service. Although SKYWARN® spotters provide essential information for all types of weather hazards, the main responsibility of a SKYWARN® spotter is to identify and describe severe local storms. In the average year, 10,000 severe thunderstorms, 5,000 floods and more than 1,000 tornadoes occur across the United States. These events threatened lives and property. Class participants have consisted of the general public, surfers, lifeguards, police officers, fire fighters, paramedics, water rescue team members, dive team members, and the U.S. Coast Guard. CEDAR CREEK GOLF 11 CEDAR CREEK FAMILY GOLF CENTER Treat Mom and Dad on their special days Say Happy Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 8 when mothers play miniature golf for FREE 8 a.m. to close Give Dad a Day Out on Sunday, June 19 when fathers play miniature golf for FREE 8 a.m. to close ey kids (of all ages) treat your hard working parents to a H fun and relaxing round of mini golf on us. Say “Thanks Mom” by surprising her with a free round of mini golf on her special day and honor Dad on Father’s Day when it’s his turn to play mini golf for free. They get to play for free and you get to spend quality time with them. After your fun outing, treat them to a bite to eat at the snack bar. On Father’s Day enjoy a cookout with hot brats, burgers, and dogs fresh from the grill after 18 holes or a round on the mini golf course and finish the day with a great snack. Call 219-365-2902 for info. Daddy and Me Fall Golf League Thursdays, June 16 – August 4 Daddy and Me league is offered at Cedar Creek for kids ages 4 to 17 with dads (moms are okay as subs). This is a non-competitive league with tee times after 3:30 p.m. There is a one-time $10 sign-up fee with weekly fees of $4 for adults who walk or $11for a cart. The fee per child is $2 per week. Call Cedar Creek to sign up at 219-365-2902 A Beginner Junior Golf Lessons Ages: 6-17 Session 1: June 13 – 17 Session 2: July 11 – 15 9 to 10:30 a.m. Cost: $75 5 classes/1 ½ hour each Minimum (3 golfers) Maximum (10 golfers) Pre- Registration and payment is required: 219-365-2902 unior golfers will learn the fundamentals of basic grip, Jfundamentals stance, and club usage. They will then implement these by practicing drives, iron shots, chipping and putting. The final day the children will play a few holes on the Executive course. When a junior leaves this camp we want them to feel comfortable on the golf course although they will still require practice and dedication. Social Golf League Mondays and Tuesdays June 13 – August 29 Tee Times 8-10 a.m. $15 one time league fee with daily greens fee: $6 to walk or $11 to ride (2 per cart min.) T his league is not like any you’ve experienced. By paying a one-time fee, you are automatically in the league. You may come and go when you can, no penalty for missing a week. This is perfect for the person who wants to join a league but is occasionally busy to attend. Call 219-365-2902. Ladies Wednesday Evening Golf League June 15 – August 31 Tee Times begin at 5 p.m. $15 One-time joining fee with weekly Green Fee: $6 to walk (9 holes) or $11 to ride (2 person min) T his league is the perfect opportunity to escape the rigors of the day and come out to unwind with a game of golf and friendship. It is unique in that it provides the freedom to come when you can and not worry if you can’t. At Cedar Creek if you miss a week there is no penalty and you do not have to find someone to play in your place. Beginners are always welcome. DYK The total caloric expenditure for an 18-hole round of golf is about 2,000 calories for walking while carrying clubs and 1,300 calories when riding in a cart (Walker Research Group for GOLF 20/20 and World Golf Foundation). Besides, it’s fun! WALK THE PARKS Continued from page 3 Tallgrass Prairie Hike at Oak Ridge Prairie Intermediate Junior Golf Lessons Open to juniors who have completed our beginner class or who have had formal lessons Session 1: June 13 – 17 Session 2: July 11 – 15 10:30 a.m. to noon Cost: $75 5 classes/1 ½ hour each Minimum (3 golfers) Maximum (10 golfers) Pre-registration and payment is required: 219-365-2902 his clinic consists of five days of instruction for any junior T golfer who is ready move up to a more advanced set of lessons. Each session will work in more detail on chipping and putting, iron shots and drives. We recommend juniors who have been through the beginner class or are currently participating in our junior league to take these lessons. If you have any questions about your child participating in this class please contact Cedar Creek. Friday, August 12 219-844-3188 to register V 9 a.m. Ages 18+ Individual sign ups only (no groups) ery few remnants of Tall Grass Prairie remain in the Midwest. Those that have survived provide some of the most biologically diverse habitats in our area. Visit an example of the once vast Tall Grass Prairie and learn how preservation and restoration have worked together to make Oak Ridge Prairie a prime example of these efforts. Explore the flora and fauna that inhabit these places. Comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are recommended. Meet in the parking lot by the kiosk. LEARNING IS FUN 12 Outdoor Education Group Experiences at Gibson Woods Nature Preserve he Outdoor Education Staff at the Gibson Woods Environmental T Awareness Center offers group programs for all ages. The Center has a classroom for presentations, a hands-on exhibit area with live animals and a bird observation room. Three miles of trails along an ancient dune and swale landscape highlight the natural beauty of the nature preserve. Reserved programs are tailored to suit the age, experience and grade curriculum of individual groups. All programs include an indoor presentation and an outdoor activity. Dress for the weather. All programs are $2 per person, including adults, with a $20 minimum per group. Pre-school programs are 1 hour with a 20-student maximum. Groups K-12 programs are 1½ hours with a 40-student maximum. Registration and deposit are required at least 10 days in advance by calling 219-769-PARK. For program content information call Gibson Woods Nature Preserve at 219-844-3188 Program Season GradeDescription Into the Woods All year All Overview of Gibson Woods with walk and live animals. Includes endangered animals, conservation and urban wildlife. Tree ID Fall 3rd + It takes more than a leaf to ID a tree. Learn the essentials that make identification easy. Healthy Water Spring-Fall 1st + A fun and interesting way to learn about water – where it comes from, where it goes, how it gets polluted. What we can do to keep it safe to drink. Almost All Spring-Fall All Learn some little known facts About Birds about birds. Why is bird watching such a popular hobby? Do all birds eat worms? Why are they so important to the health of our environment? Park Hours at Gibson Woods Nature Preserve on page 29 Group Tours at Buckley Homestead Indiana History from 1850 - 1917 Dates available May through early June and September through October Morning tours may be booked to start at 9 a.m. (two-hour tours) Afternoon tours may be booked to start at Noon (two-hour tours) Fee $3 per person, including teachers and chaperones; $50 minimum per group Reservations and deposit required at least ten days in advance by calling 219-769-PARK. Ask about $1 souvenir bags. Order at time of reservation. Tour highlights This tour is designed to enhance Indiana history taught in the 4th grade. It can be adjusted to fit the needs of younger grades, but is not recommended for Kindergarten or Pre-school groups. Students will be divided into groups of not more than 30 students each. (Schools with larger groups can be accommodated if chaperones remain outside of buildings.) Students will visit each of three different sites: the 1910s farm, the 1900 one-room schoolhouse, and the 1850 log cabin. Interpreters are dressed in historically accurate clothing to add to the visual comprehension. On the farm, the interpreter asks, “What do you see and why is it here?” From the animals, to the buildings, to the pastures and gardens, there is much to see and understand about subsistence living. Animals on the farm include chickens, geese, rabbits, sheep, cows, pigs, horses and cats. In the schoolhouse, children will learn what a school day was like at the turn of the 20th century. They will be asked to compare and contrast their school with Buckley’s. They will notice similarities and differences in the building, the teacher, and the curriculum. Many things have changed, and yet some things we do today are derived from our early agrarian days. At the cabin, children will be asked to imagine moving here before the Civil War. What did they need to survive? What was their priority once they got here? Students will be asked to compare and contrast living in their modern home with living in the 1850 Buckley cabin. Additional Information The path is just under one mile of gravel and bark chip trail. Students will be outside much of the time and should dress for the weather. If a teacher has a student in a wheelchair or other special needs, it should be disclosed at the time of the reservation. Arrangements will be made to make the tour as accessible as possible. LEARNING IS FUN Groups Tours of Wood’s Historic Grist Mill at Deep River County Park In 1836 John Wood moved his family to Indiana where he built a wooden grist mill that he operated for many years. In 1876 his son, Nathan, built the current building and operated the flouring mill into the twentieth century. Wood’s Grist Mill stands as a reminder of the great industrial strength of Northwest Indiana. The Power of Water (Nature and History Tour) Available: Tuesday - Friday (May-October) This tour can be adjusted to fit any grade/age group (first grade and older) Fee: $2 per person (children and adults) or $3 and each person receives a Deep River souvenir bag with postcard and two candy sticks. Group size: 20 person minimum and 80 person maximum Tour Time: Tours are 1 & 1/2 hour long. Tours can begin at 9:30 am (arrival times may be adjusted to fit your group’s needs). Larger groups may take more time to complete tour. Reservation and Deposit: $20 deposit required at least two weeks in advance by calling 219-769-7275 Tour Description: Nature: Take a walk along the river and learn why Deep River was the natural choice for John Wood to settle here. Discover the wildlife that still exists while learning who or what may have lived here years ago. 13 Early Indiana History 18th Century Fur Trade Era School/Group Tours at Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park Friday, May 13 (advance reservation required; only date offered) Morning tour time slot: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Afternoon tour time slot: Noon – 2 p.m. Minimum (20 students); Maximum (140 students) per time slot $2 per person, including chaperones and teachers; $20 minimum Reservations and deposit required at least ten business days in advance Appropriate for 4th - 6th grade curriculum Reserve your time slot now. Space is limited and is closed when filled. Call 219-769-PARK, M-F 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. istory books open wide and come to life as your students visit the H 18th century. The Fur Trade Era is bustling with activity when you arrive. Your students will see how the French Voyageurs played an important role in early commerce and trade right here in Northwest Indiana. Native Americans traded furs while the Voyageurs, British, and French clashed over ownership of the land. There is plenty for students to see, hear and learn. They will feel like they just spent a day in the 18th century. You too, will enjoy jumping back into history! The tour is completely outside, so please remind your students to dress for the weather. Upon registration, teachers will be sent a confirmation packet, complete with pre or post activity sheets. History: At Wood’s Mill learn about water power, grist mills and John Wood. The miller will demonstrate how cornmeal is still ground. Then through hands-on activities like shelling corn, sifting cornmeal and tying a miller’s knot learn how technology and the grist mill made life easier on people of the past. Deep River General Store: A stop in the store, once a nondenominational church built in 1904, highlights items that would have been for sale in a general store of the past. Groups learn the importance of the store in the community. For groups choosing to shop, there is everything from rock candy, toys, maple syrup, souvenirs to our stone-ground cornmeal for sale. Not interested in shopping, you can add on a Deep River souvenir bag with postcard and candy sticks for $1 per person. It’s a great way to take the experience home with you. Educational Standards/Entertainment Factor: Tours touch on Indiana history, American history, industrial revolution, science, nature, simple machines and hydropower/renewable resources. After registering for your tour, you will receive a resource packet to use in the classroom to complete the tour with before and after activities. The grinding stones when the cover is removed. Each stone weighs 2,000 pounds. The bed stone remains stationary while the runner or top stone turns. The furrows in the stones grind the corn into meal. Photo take by Tom Zmigrocki Benefits of Field Trips on Learning From the prairie to the farmfields and places inbetween, Lake County Parks offers educational experiences for all ages. Field trips have significant benefits even beyond educational aspects. They often expose students to new experiences, may provide varied ways of looking at things, and encourage exploration. Our interpreters are happy to work with instructors or group leaders to adjust the presentation to fit the needs of your learners. Call 219769-7275 to make reservations. Trip descriptions are provided on pages 12-14. 14 LEARNING IS FUN Maple Syrup “Travel through nature, science, and history” Weekday Group Experiences Deep River County Park Wood’s Historic Grist Mill area March 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17 & 18 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. OR 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. First grade through adults $2 per person, children and adults Advance deposit required ($20) Maximum per reservation: 120 Tours last 2 hours and are outside and inside Designed for appropriate for school classes, homeschool groups, senior clubs and others Call 219-769-7275 to reserve beginning Jan. 20 A ttention school teachers, home schools, adults, and other groups. This popular springtime educational experience will be held in the Visitor Center, the Sugar Shack, and outdoors among the maple trees. During the two hour travel through nature, science, and history groups are shown how trees are tapped and the sap is collected. They learn the critical importance of the weather and the almost magical properties of water needed to produce the sweet syrup. Groups learn about the Native American contribution to making maple sugar and hear a legend about how it was first discovered that using the sap from a tree could produce sugar that could sustain a tribe through a harsh winter. The Sugar Shack is in full production transforming the sap into pure maple syrup in the wood-fired evaporator. By contrast, French Voyageurs are making maple sugar over the open fire. Scout Badges Workshops for Girl and Cub Scout Troops S cout leaders looking for fun and exciting ways for troop members to earn badges may make reservations at Gibson Woods Nature Preserve. Park staff guides participants in exploring the wonderful world of nature during various workshops that fill some of the badge requirements (the badge is not included in program). GIRL SCOUTS Brownies: Watching Wildlife • Earth and Sky • Water Everywhere Juniors: Wildlife • Earth Connections • Eco-Action Cadettes and Seniors: Wildlife • All about Birds CUB SCOUTS Bear: Sharing Your World with Wildlife Webelos: Naturalist • Forester Troop Registration: Badge programming is $2 per person, including adults, with a $20 minimum and a 30 person maximum. Workshops are offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. March through October. To register, call the park department office at 219-769-PARK. Groups must register at least two weeks in advance. Only one badge will be presented per workshop. Insect Study Gibson Woods Sunday, August 7 1 p.m. Register at 219-844-3188 by August 5 L earn about the jungle in your back yard and the roles they play in our lives. Topics covered will include insect anatomy, behavior, and metamorphosis. Participants will learn how to distinguish between some of the principal orders of insects. Participants should wear or bring protective clothing for nature hike. This program is geared for Boy Scout merit badge, but is open to anyone 12 - 18 years. For merit badge, ask about prerequisites. Learn differences in syrups, how syrup is graded, and where maple trees are found. Get a taste of Deep River’s own pure maple syrup. The gift shop General Store is open only for reserved groups to purchase bottles of pure maple syrup, maple sugar candy, candy sticks or other souvenirs. Much of the tour is conducted outdoors, so please dress according to weather conditions. There are indoor alternatives in case of extreme weather. Deep River County Park is located at 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart, IN 46342 at the intersection of County Line Road and 73rd Avenue. From I-65 and Route 30 go east 4 miles on Route 30 to Randolph Street, then north to the first stop sign and east to the park. GPS coordinates: Deep River Grist Mill: 41.475944,-87.222285 Leave No Child Inside encourages children’s curiosity about nature and engages them in outdoor exploration and discovery. Lake County Parks and other Chicago Wilderness members are experts in connecting children and adults to nature. We know that children need regular time outdoors, so take your kids outside. Let them take the lead - with their natural curiosity, they will quickly find something to explore. Give your children the gift of spending time in nature. The benefits last a lifetime. LAKE COUNTY PARKS A1 See map on the following page Whihala Beach County Park 1561 Park Road in Whiting, IN 46394 Directions: Travel Indianapolis Blvd to 119th Street in Whiting, then east on 119th to Front Street and north to Whiting Park. Whihala Beach is on the west side of Whiting Park. Whihala Beach is operated by the Whiting Parks and Recreation Department. Call them at 219-659-0860. About Whihala Beach: 22 acres on Lake Michigan dedicated in 1981 Fishing pier • Walking path • Parking fee • Picnic tables • Swimmers rinse shower • Seasonal swimming • Flush toilets • Lake Michigan • Fishing pier is accessed from the west entrance off Casino Center Drive in Hammond. From Indianapolis Blvd. follow Casino Center Drive C2 Gibson Woods Nature Preserve 6201 Parrish Avenue, Hammond, IN 46323 Directions: Exit I-80/94 at Cline Avenue north to 169th, west to Parrish then north to Gibson Woods or exit I-80/94 at Kennedy Avenue north to 169th, east to Parrish then north to Gibson Woods. About Gibson Woods: 170 acres dedicated in 1981 • Indiana State Dedicated Nature Preserve subject to limitations • Environmental Awareness Center and gift shop • Educational displays • Hiking trails (no bicycles, motorized vehicles, animals, no off trail activities including Geocaching) • Interpretive staff and educational programs • Nature window • Flush toilets • Seasonal hours D3 Lake Etta County Park and Lake Etta Banquet Hall and Wedding Pergola 4801 West 29th Avenue, Gary, IN 46406 Directions: Exit I-80/94 at Burr Street south to 29th Avenue then east to Lake Etta About Lake Etta: 98 acres dedicated in 1981 • Banquet Hall and wedding pergola added in 2006 • Four rental picnic shelters with grills; no electricity • Large group pavilion rental • hard surface and natural trails • canoe launch on the Little Calumet River • Stocked fishing lake and fishing pier • Open play fields • Parking fee • Large accessible playground • Seasonal swimming and paddleboat D5 Three Rivers County Park and Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center 2800 Colorado Street, Lake Station, IN 46405 Directions: Coming from west of I-65 on I-80/94: Exit I-80/94 at Central Avenue then left (west) to Colorado Street. Turn left (south) on Colorado, go over the highway and straight into Three Rivers County Park and Bellaboo’s. Coming from east of Ripley Street (US 51) on I-80/94: Exit I-80/94 at Ripley Street (US 51) south (exit 15). At Central Avenue turn 15 right (west) onto Central for 3 miles to Colorado Street. Turn left (south) onto Colorado, go over the highway and straight into Three Rivers County Park and Bellaboo’s. About Three Rivers: 78 acres dedicated in 1999 • 1.5 mile asphalt walking and biking trail around the lake • Fishing and fishing pier • Jon boat and trolling motor rentals weekends Memorial Day through Labor Day • Registered Geocaches • Portable toilet About Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center: Opened in 2009 at Three Rivers County Park • Designed for children ages nine and younger with room after room of imaginative play activities • Outdoor play areas will be added in the next couple of years to complement the creative indoor building • www.MyBellaboos.com E3 Oak Ridge Prairie County Park 301 South Colfax Street in Griffith, IN 46319 Directions: Travel Main Street in Griffith to Colfax, then turn right (south) on Colfax for ½ mile to the park gate on the east side of the street. About Oak Ridge Prairie: 939 acres dedicated in October of 1983 • Two rental picnic shelters with grills; no electricity • Cross country ski trails and seasonal rentals • Winter sledding hill • Stocked fishing lake and fishing pier • Fall hayride reservations • Hiking trails • Registered Geocaches • Open play fields • Large playground • Oak Savannah Hike Bike Trail head • Parking fee • Fishing Fees • Volleyball standards • Pit Toilet E4 Turkey Creek Golf Course and Banquet on the Green 6400 Harrison Street in Merrillville, IN 46410 Directions: Exit I-65 west at 61st Avenue to Harrison Street, then south for ¼ mile. About Turkey Creek: 18 challenging holes on 151 acres dedicated in 1978 • Banquet Hall and full service bar • Halfway house concessions during golf season • Golf/pro shop • Flush toilets For individual park maps click on the PARKS link from the home page at www.LakeCountyParks.com then on the park site Park information continued on page 18 301 South Colfax Street Griffith, IN 46319 OAK RIDGE PRAIRIE Oak Ridge Prairie: COUNTY PARK 41.51769,-87.413623 301 Colfax Street West: Oak South Savannah Trailhead Griffith, IN 46319 41.522783,-87.389365 Oak Ridge Prairie: Oak Savannah Trailhead East: 41.51769,-87.413623 41.547116,-87.221442 Oak Savannah Trailhead Erie Lackawanna TrailheadWest: North: 41.522783,-87.389365 41.51916,-87.426841 Oak Savannah Trailhead East: Erie Lackawanna Trailhead South: 41.547116,-87.221442 41.449435,-87.374864 Erie Lackawanna Trailhead North: 41.51916,-87.426841 TURKEY CREEKTrailhead GOLF COURSE Erie Lackawanna South: 6400 Harrison Street, Merrillville, IN 46410 41.449435,-87.374864 41.502877,-87.345754 COUNTY PARK E6 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart, IN 46342 Deep River Grist Mill: 41.502877,-87.345754 41.475944,-87.222285 Deep River County Line Road: 41.483097,-87.22008 DEEP RIVER COUNTY PARK DEEP RIVER PARK TURKEY CREEKCOUNTY GOLF COURSE E6 6400 E4 9410 Harrison Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart, IN 46342 Street, Merrillville, IN 46410 E4 E3 E3 Lake Station, IN 46405 Entrance Sign: 41.567336,-87.297520 Bellaboo’s Play & Discovery Center Bellaboo building entrance: 41.567076,-87.298980 Entrance Sign: 41.567336,-87.297520 Bellaboo building entrance: OAK RIDGE PRAIRIE 41.567076,-87.298980 D5 2800 Colorado Street Bellaboo’s Play & Discovery Center THREE RIVERS COUNTY PARK 2800 Colorado Street THREE RIVERS COUNTY PARK Lake Station, IN 46405 41.566095,-87.396653 LAKE ETTA COUNTY PARK LAKE ETTA COUNTY PARK 4801 West 29th Avenue, Gary, IN 46406 D3 D3 4801 West 29th Avenue, Gary, IN 46406 41.566095,-87.396653 41.599352,-87.45186 41.599352,-87.45186 90 Wolf Lake 912 12 t t nS E 151st St Chicago Ave Gu e thrie Av St 12 Exit 10 Exit 7A Exit 7A Exit 6 Exit 1 Broadmoor Ave 173rd St Locust St d Ridge R 80 81st Ave W 77th Ave 30 Exit 2 W Avenue H E 77th Ave Joliet St Exit 9 W 4th Ave W 25th Ave W 21st Ave W 15th Ave 94 Oak Ridge W 59th Ave Prairie CO. Park Reder Rd Griffith W 7th Ave W 8th Ave W 11th Ave Exit 13 tral E 25th Ave E 21st Ave Cen Exit 15 W 49th Ave 53 W 61st Ave W 57th Ave Turkey Creek CO. Golf Course 55 E 54th Ave Ave E Lincoln Hwy Merrillville Exit 259 Exit 261 65 W Old Exit 253 Green Acres E 61st Ave E 73rd Ave E 69th Ave Exit 255 d St Exit 15 Exit 16 Melton Rd Hwy Deep River CO. Park ay St Linco lnw 130 E Cleveland Ave th Rd Ainswor 51 W 61st Ave Hobart George E 3r 10th St W 3rd St Ridge Rd W 37th Ave 12 s Dune Oak Ave Lake Station E 29th Old Hobart Rd New 51 Chicago E 37th Ave Exit 13 Central Ave Ave en u Br n a V National Lakeshore Lake 65 Exit 258 90 E 10th Ave National Lakeshore Three Rivers CO. Park 53rd Ave Oak Savannah CO.Trail W 73rd Ave W 81st A Hyles-Anderson ve wy coln H W Lin 80 W 45th Ave GriffithMerrillville W 51st Ave E Main St Airport W 53rd Ave Elm St 90 Hemlock Ave National Lakeshore Lake Michigan Exit 9 Exit 10 Lake Etta Indiana University CO. Park W 35th Ave E 35th Ave Gary W 37th Ave Ridge Rd Village Mall 39th Ave W 41st Ave Exit 6 Glen Park Ave BUS 6 Exit 5 912 Dr DNR Schererville 41 DNR W Main St 45th St Highland Wirth Rd Laporte St Exit 3 ard Purdue 173rd St Orc University h The Crossroads Mall Dyer 213th St e th Av E 45 Munster Main St Joliet St 167th St 169th St Hammond Highland St Gary Gary Chicago Airport Michigan St Gibson Woods t W 5th Ave 20 CO. Nature Exit 8 Kenwood St 165th St W 9th Ave Preserve rS me Carroll St S um higa Mic ch Mi n iga d yR W Columbus Dr t Rd ey Ril Ca na lS East Chicago ke Dic Whiting Exit 4 141st St Exit 5 Gostlin St W 145th St Chicago Ave te S Sta Calumet Ave 129th St Exit 3 Calumet College Columbia Ave C2 6201 C2 46323 6201 Parrish ParrishAvenue, Avenue,Hammond, Hammond,ININ 46323 Whihala Beach CO. Park Indianapolis Blvd GIBSON WOODS NATURE PRESERVE Exit 0 Kennedy Ave 41.683887,-87.490886 Grand Ave WHIHALA BEACH COUNTY PARK A1 WHIHALA BEACH COUNTY PARK Park Road, Whiting, IN 46394 A1 1561 1561 Park Road, Whiting, IN 46394 41.683887,-87.490886 Parrish Ave Sheffield Ave Hohman Ave Sohl Ave bia A ve Colum Sheffield Ave Calumet Ave Calumet Ave Burr St l Hart St White Oak Ave Broadway &2128 5 & 1 9 S PAAGGEES 1 TOIONNSS E P E S E SE R DIR IREECCTI ! D O FFOR O PAARRKKSS! TTO P Osborne Ave Indianapolis Blvd Wicker Ave Chase St Hendricks Pl 5th St Kennedy Ave Clark Rd Johnson Rd Whitcomb St Whitcomb St Chase St N Cline Ave N Broad St S Broad St line Ave Harrison St Mississippi St Martin Luther King Dr N Lake St Wisconsin St Buchanan St Grant St Cleveland St Colfax St Colfax St S Fairbanks St Georgia St Taft St Taft St N Liverpool Rd S Liverpool Rd Harrison St Madison St Broadway C . S Lasalle St Oakdale Rd Mississippi St oA ve ad olo r Colorado St Grand Blvd Lake Park Ave Grand Blvd e Av e Eri i Tra nna a w cka La Clay St Ripley St N Hobart Rd rn S Lake Park Ave S ste Union St In olis ou a the Hobart Rd ap SL Main St Randolph St n dia d Blv St ake County Line Rd 16 20 Lake County LAKE COUNT Ro hrm an Rd t Sain d R John 10483 W. 109th Avenue, Cedar Lake, IN 46303 CEDAR CREEK FAMILY 41.420964,-87.460552 STONEY RUN COUNTY PARK L5 K3 L5 8411 E. Lincoln Highway Crown (U.S. 30)Point, IN 46307 4.5 miles east of Interstate 65 on U.S. Crown Point, IN 46307 30 in Merrillville, just west of the Deep 4.5 miles east of Interstate 65 on River30Waterpark. U.S. in Merrillville, just west of the Deep River Waterpark. (U.S. 30) SEE INSIDE FRONT COVER FOR PHONE NUMBERS LAKE COUNTY PARKS ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES LAKE COUNTY PARKS 8411 E. Lincoln Highway ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES SEE INSIDE FRONT COVER FOR PHONE NUMBERS 21690 Rangeline Road, Hebron, IN 46341 41.220505,-87.276058 GRAND KANKAKEE MARSH COUNTY PARK 21690 Rangeline Road, Hebron, IN 46341 GRAND KANKAKEE 41.220505,-87.276058 MARSH COUNTY PARK 41.268504,-87.375031 CALUMET ASTRONOMY CENTER: CONWAY OBSERVATORY and NIRo 41.268504,-87.375031 CALUMET ASTRONOMY CENTER: CONWAY OBSERVATORY and NIRo J3 COUNTY PARK Belshaw Road, Lowell, IN 46356 K3 3606 Visitor’s Center: 41.283566,-87.377509 3606 Belshaw Road, Lowell, IN 46356 BUCKLEY HOMESTEAD Visitor’s Center: 41.283566,-87.377509 BUCKLEY HOMESTEAD COUNTY PARK H6 E. 142nd Avenue, Hebron, IN 46341 J3 923041.359999,-87.225063 G3 H6 6322 W. 133rd Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307 LEMON LAKE COUNTY PARK 41.377023,-87.40723 6322 W. 133rd Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307 41.377023,-87.40723 STONEY RUN COUNTY PARK 142nd and Union Street, Leroy, IN 46355 41.359999,-87.225063 G2 GOLF CENTER W. 109th Avenue, Cedar Lake, IN 46303 G3 10483 41.420964,-87.460552 LEMON LAKE COUNTY PARK F6 G2 DEEP RIVER WATERPARK (mailing) 9001 E. U.S. 30, Crown Point, IN 46307 CEDAR CREEK FAMILY 41.47063,-87.230138 GOLF CENTER 101st Ave B aw elsh Rd W 197th Ave W 169th Ave 145th Ave Brunswick Calumet Ave Sheffield Ave ILLINOIS INDIANA Sheffield Ave F6 White Oak Ave White Oak Ave DNR W 219th Ave W 205th Ave Cline Ave Schneider Rd W 141st Ave W 133rd Ave Lake Dalecarlia Redwing Lake W 245th Ave W 231st Ave W 221st Ave E Summit St St E North St W 203rd Ave Conway Observatory E 113th Ave Shelby Tenth St E 221st Ave E 205th Ave 55 E 181st Ave E 173rd Ave E 163rd Ave lby She d R Newton County ms 65 an s M rov eR SG d Rd E 117th Ave 65 189th Ave Dinwiddie E 142nd Ave Stoney Run CO. Park Jasper County Grand Kankakee Marsh CO.Park 2 Palmer E 129th Ave E 137th Ave E 109th Ave Leroy 231 E 165th Ave Deep River Waterpark Corp p Officcce E 93rd Ave DNR E 141st Ave E 157th Ave Southeast Grove Exit 240 30 E 83rd Ave Winfield em or ial Tr ail E 145th Ave Ve ter Exit 247 field Win E 97th Ave E 121st Ave E 101st Ave Har Rd Westfield Shopping Center 65 109th Ave 53 W 169th Ave E 153rd Ave 55 E 137th Ave Shady Lawn Crown Point W 169th Ave W 161st Ave Rd illville W 93rd Ave 55 Buckley Homestead d R CO. Park haw Bels Lowell W 171st Ave Hermits Lake Lake County Fairgrounds Joliet Lake Dalecarlia R W 149th Ave er d ee W 205th Ave Commercial Ave W 159th Ave 231 W 105th Ave W 91st Ave College Lemon ke Lake CO. S Dr hore Park La Burr St W 101st Ave W 93rd Ave Cedar Lake W 155th Ave W 181st Ave W 173rd Ave W 157th Ave 151st Ave Cedar Lake Cedar Creek CO. 117th Ave Golf Course 41 W 241st Ave St Schmal Ave Parrish St W 109th Ave W 135th Ave 109th Ave 41 et Joli Austin St Blaine St Morse St W 93rd Ave Wicker Ave Mount St Cline Ave Cline Ave Clark St Clark St Clark St Chase St Mon Ackerman St Holtz Rd Whitcomb St S Nichols St Cline Ave Cline Ave Ce Hendricks St Main St rt St Marshall St St. John Colfax St dar d S Cou Lak eR Chase St Chase St Delaware St N Indiana Ave S Indiana Ave Grant St Broadway Broadway St W 85th Ave Iowa St Merr Grant St Gibson St Madison St Harrison St Mississippi St Mississippi St Mississippi St Elkhart St Colorado St Colorado St Grand Blvd Lake Hills Rangeline Road / Clay St Randolph St St Montgomery St son Montgomery St tter Union St Pa County Line Rd W 85th Ave Porter County d 7th W8 e Av County Line Rd 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart, IN 46342 Deep River Grist Mill: 41.475944,-87.222285 Deep River County Line Road: 41.483097,-87.22008 Big Maple Lake: DEEPAinsworth RIVER WATERPARK 7302 Road, Hobart, IN(mailing) 46342 9001 E. U.S. 30, Crown Point, IN 46307 41.491101, -87.248872. 41.47063,-87.230138 IndIana TY INDIANA 17 21 on R d LAKE COUNTY PARKS 18 E6 See map on previous page Deep River County Park and Historic Wood’s Mill 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart, IN 46342 Directions for Historic area: Located at the intersection of County Line Road and 73rd Avenue. From I-65 and Route 30 go east 4 miles on Route 30 to Randolph Street, then north to the first stop sign and east to the park. Directions for County Line Road picnic area: Located about ½ mile north of 73rd Avenue (Old Lincoln Highway) on County Line Road. Turn left (north) at the stop sign after Wood’s Historic Grist Mill then left (north) on County Line for about ½ mile to the picnic area gate on the left (west). Directions to Big Maple Lake: From I-65 and Rt. 30 travel east about 4 miles to Grand Blvd (US 51) then north 1.2 miles to Ainsworth Road (just north of the train tracks) then east for ½ mile. Entrance is on the left. About Deep River: 1080 acres dedicated in 1977 • Several sections of the park both south and north of U.S. 30 from Deep River Waterpark to Big Maple Lake • Historical buildings • Educational programs • Horses permitted in areas other than the historic grounds • Home of Deep River Grinders Historic Base Ball • Interpretive staff • Open play fields • Cross country ski trails • Hiking trails • Seasonal hayride reservations • Flush and Pit toilets • Two rental picnic shelters with grills; no electricity, playground, and horseshoe pits at the County Line area F6 Deep River Waterpark 9001 East U.S. 30 Directions: Only 4 ½ miles east of I-65 on Route 30 in Merrillville. About Deep River Waterpark: Full service family Waterpark open the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day with limited operation on weekdays the end of August • Birthday parties • Corporate Buy Outs • Group Specials • Food Concessions • Sand volleyball courts • Ice skating plaza open the Friday after Thanksgiving through February • Check the web page for coupons and specials • www.DeepRiverWaterpark.com G2 Cedar Creek Family Golf Center 10483 W.109th Avenue in Cedar Lake, IN 46303 Directions: Located on Route 231, ¼ mile east of Rt. 41 About Cedar Creek: 82 acres added in 2005 • Nine hole executive course • Lighted driving range • Golf lessons • Mini golf course • Birthday party rentals • Food concessions • Youth golf lessons and leagues • FootGolf G3 Lemon Lake County Park 6322 W 133rd Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307 Directions: Located between Crown Point and Cedar Lake. Exit I-65 at the Route 231 exit and go west toward Crown Point to Indiana St. Rt. 55 then south to 133rd Avenue and west for about 3 miles to the park. About Lemon Lake: 403 acres dedicated in 1972 as the first Lake County Park • Hard surface and natural trails • Ten rental picnic shelters with grills; some with electricity • Large playground • Open play fields • Four 18 hole Disc Golf courses • 14 acre Dogwood Run Off-leash facility (permit required) • Sand beach volleyball courts • Softball diamonds • Cross country ski trails and rentals seasonally • Winter sledding hill • Fall hayride reservations • Fishing and fishing pier • Flush and pit toilets • Parking fee H6 Stoney Run County Park 9230 E. 142nd Avenue, Hebron, IN 46341 Directions: Exit I-65 at Route 231 toward Hebron for about 4.5 miles. Just past Leroy, turn left on 145th Avenue and follow the road for 2.5 miles to the front gate. About Stoney Run: 316 acres dedicated in 1973 • Ten rental picnic shelters with grills or fire pit in campground; some with electricity • Parking fee • Reserved group camping • Trails • Horses permitted on perimeter trail only • Open play fields • Large playground • Cross country ski trails and rentals seasonally • Fishing • Fall hayride reservations • Pit toilets • Flush toilet near Vietnam Veterans Memorial J3 Buckley Homestead County Park 3606 Belshaw Road, Lowell, IN 46356 Directions: Located 4.5 miles west of Interstate 65 just south of Route 2 on Hendricks Road in Lowell. Exit I-65 west at Rt. 2 toward Lowell to Hendricks, then south for ¼ mile to the visitor center parking lot. The farmstead is a short walk along the trail. About Buckley Homestead: 746 acres dedicated in 1983 • Two rental picnic shelters with grills; no electricity • Historic traditions, culture and heritage of farming life during the 19th and early 20th centuries are re-created on this living history farm • Trail to historic main house, barnyard, pioneer farm and one-room schoolhouse • Horses permitted except during special events • Cross country ski trails seasonally • Fall hayride reservations • Horse-drawn Bobsled rides in January and February K3 Calumet Astronomy Center: Conway Observatory and NIRo at Buckley Homestead Directions: Exit I-65 west at Rt. 2 toward Lowell to Hendricks Road, then south to the “T” at Belshaw. East (left) on Belshaw to the first right (Chase Street) and south for one mile About Calumet Astronomy Center: A partnership between the Lake County Parks, Purdue University Calumet (NIRo telescope) and the volunteers of the Calumet Astronomical Society (Conway Observatory). Several public programs each year and the annual Youth Astronomy Camp. L5 Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park 21690 Range Line Road, Hebron, IN 46341 Directions: Exit I-65 east at Rt. 2 toward Hebron for about one mile to Clay Street (Range Line Road) then south for five miles to the park. About GKM: 2069 acres dedicated in 1979 • One rental picnic shelter with grill; no electricity • Public access to the Kankakee River via boat launch • Fishing, horse riding, hiking and cross country skiing permitted on the levy trails (not open to the public during hunting seasons) • Pit toilets PARKS AND RECREATION BIG PLANS for 2018 What’s happening in 2018? It’s a celebration of the first fifty years of the Lake County Parks. On June 11, 1968 the first Lake County Park Board meeting was held, making 2018 the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. Anniversaries are a chance to remember the past and to recognize the legacy of those who had the vision for what we enjoy today. Do you have old photos of the parks, favorite stories, and memories of the parks before they were parks? Share your photos, thoughts and memories by posting them on Facebook at Lake County Parks 50th Anniversary. Anniversaries are also a chance to look forward and build on the legacy that began a half century ago. The investment of the past 50 years is there waiting for you to use and enjoy. Celebrate by getting up and going outside. Enjoy all that the Lake County Parks has to offer. Celebrate this legacy with us as we look forward to the next 50 years of exceptional parks and recreation. Watch for details on the website. The Welcome sign went up even before the For Sale sign came down; even before that first park had a name. Welcome to the Lake County Park & Recreation Board FIRST PARK SITE. Quick quiz: What park was that? What year was it dedicated? How did it get its name? (Answers are on page 22) 19 CSRI Wheelchair Accessible Hayride For families with special needs Oak Ridge Prairie County Park Sunday, October 23 Noon to 2:30 p.m. $3 per person Limit 80 Pre-registration required Call Lake County Parks and Recreation Department at 219-769-7275 All aboard! Our specially designed handicap accessible hay wagon is ready to take you on a fall adventure! Crafts, music, games and treat bags will round out the afternoon fun. • Each ride is approx. 20 minutes long. • Hay wagon can accommodate 2 guests in wheelchairs with an additional 15 guests per ride. • Last ride departs at 2 p.m., or when all in attendance have had a ride, whichever comes first. • Guests with wheelchairs will be assigned their hayride time slot during registration. • All other guests will be assigned hayride time slot upon arrival at park. • Pre-registration is required for all who wish to attend.  See lakecountyparks.com/ activities/great_outdoors/ special_recreation.html for a printable copy of the 2016 activities. Please note: The August 27 date and time for the CSRI Hayride listed in the booklet is incorrect. The Cooperative Special Recreation Initiative is a partnership between the park and recreation departments of Crown Point, Dyer, Hammond, Highland, Lake County, Merrillville, Munster, Schererville, St. John, and Whiting, as well as the Hammond Port Authority, the Hanover Central High School Key Club, and several volunteers. CSRI is a cooperative venture seeking ways to increase recreational opportunities for individuals of all ages who have special needs and abilities. To receive announcements of upcoming activities email CSRI at [email protected] or call one of the sponsoring agencies. Summer swimming programs at Deep River Waterpark American Red Cross Learn to Swim Lessons for ages 5 and older and the American Red Cross Guard Start Program for ages 11 to 14 will once again be offered at the Waterpark. Guard Start, using the American Red Cross Learn to Swim Program and the American Red Cross Guard Start curriculum, introduces youth to lifeguarding skills. See www.DeepRiverWaterpark. com or call 219-947-7850 ext. 604 and request a registration form be mailed to you. 20 SPECIAL EVENTS . . . that July is Parks and Recreation Month? It’s true. July has been celebrated as Parks and Recreation Month since 1985, long before it was officially so designated by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2009. It’s more than just an honor. It’s an opportunity to emphasize the values that P&R bring to our communities, so we urge you to celebrate your parks; national, state, local, and county during July. But, just as we in P&R believe that every day is Earth Day, we also believe that sharing the Power of the Parks is a daily joy. We hope it shows in every Lake County Park you visit. HEALTH IS WEALTH Gandhi said, “It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.” Study after study shows that going outside has tremendous health benefits both physically and mentally yet daily only about 31% of us spend more than 60 minutes outdoors. For individuals with arthritis, walking can help reduce pain, as well as improve mobility and quality of life. For those with diabetes thirty minutes of walking in nature resulted in larger drops in blood glucose than three hours of cycling indoors. Research has determined that separation from nature is detrimental to human development, health and well-being. Active children show more brain activity and are 20 percent more likely to earn higher grades in English or math. A short 20-minute walk in a park or other natural area can help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder focus better. It’s clear that parks are a critical ingredient in the public health of our communities. The Lake County Parks manages about 7,000 acres of parklands with more than 100 miles of trails. We hope you celebrate the wonder of nature on a regular basis. It’s good for you. 30th Annual Voyageur Rendezvous returns to the Grand Kankakee Marsh 18th Century Fur-Trade Era Reenactment May 14 & 15 10 a.m. – 4 p. m. $4 per person Children 7 and younger free For school group reservations see page 13 Peek into the lives of those who would have lived or traded along the waterways of the Midwest more than 250 years ago when the marshes were a source of valuable furs desired by merchant traders to take back to Europe. Meet Native Americans, French-Canadian canoe men, called Voyageurs, British and French militia, early settlers, and many others. This is a family friendly event with lots of fun and interactive activities for the kids. Visit the Children’s Trading Post to find out more. Event Highlights include Opening and Closing Ceremonies • Arrival of Voyageurs by canoe • Trade Session with the Native Americans • Storytelling • Tomahawk Throw • Fashion Show • Hot Food, Cold Sarsaparilla and more. “Trading Goods” by James Conrad LCPRD Severe Weather Information: This is an outdoor program. Visitors need to be aware that weather conditions may change necessitating program adjustments. If weather conditions present a safety hazard it may be necessary to close the event. Refunds will not be issued. BUCKLEY HOMESTEAD 21 Basket Workshops at Buckley Homestead Sheep Shearing Buckley Homestead Noon – 4 p.m. Sunday June 5 Free heep will be sheared about 1 p.m. but that’s only the first S step of the procedure to make the wool into something useable. After shearing, the wool needs to be cleaned. When dried, it must be carded then spun into yarn. Eventually, it can be used for clothing. Watch the process as it takes place. This is a very family friendly program. Park in the lot on Hendricks Road. The farmstead is a short walk along the trail. A Sheep is a Sheep – Right? Wrong! There are more than 50 breeds of sheep in the U.S. and likely more than 1,000 breeds throughout the World. The flock who calls the Buckley farm home is Cotswold sheep. Cotswold is a large, hornless breed with very long coarse wool, 8-12” or more. It’s wavy and hangs in prominent ringlets. A distinguishing characteristic is the long tuft of wool hanging over the forehead. Cotswold sheep are native to the bleak uplands of Cotswold Hills in Gloucestershire, England and were first introduced into the United States in 1832 in New York (Sheep Production, Horlacher). Buckley 5 Miler Buckley Homestead on Saturday, July 16 6 a.m. Registration and check in open 7:30 a.m. SHARP Race Start Details at www.Buckley5Miler.com Register online at www.runsignup.com B ack by popular demand with the Calumet Region Striders as the NEW cosponsor. Also new is a 2-mile trail run for Junior Striders age 14 and under. Otherwise, it is the same great road and cross-country run. xperienced teacher Julie Duttlinger returns to Buckley to E teach her popular basket workshops. Participants are guaranteed a finished basket by the end of the class. Two classes are offered for each basket. Bring a 3+ gallon bucket, 8+ clip clothes pins, old scissors, a pencil, tape measure or ruler, awl or small flat screwdriver or knitting needle and an old towel and a spray bottle for water. If under age 15, it is recommended that parents stay during the workshop. Come in your work clothes. The classes last through lunch so bring a sack lunch and a cold drink. Reservations and pre-payment are necessary to order supplies. “Serving Tray” Thursday, June 2 or Saturday, June 4 9 a. m. – 2 p. m. Reservations and Payment Deadline: May 27 Call 219-769-PARK $30 (includes materials) Minimum (7) Maximum (20) Description: Description: about 10” x 14” x 4”, spokes woven into the wooden bottom, twining and color on sides with braided rim (4-H Level: A). “Table Side Basket” Thursday, June 16 or Saturday, June 18 9 a.m. – 2 p. m. Reservations and Payment Deadline: June 10 Call 219-769-PARK $32 (includes materials) Minimum (7) Maximum (20) Description: 6-11” d x 6” high, 6” wooden base, woven around a bowl form, colors create arrow design on side (4-H Level: C, D). Cheers to 100 Years – it’s all about the barn Buckley Homestead 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. I July 23 & 24 $5 per person t’s a celebration with the spotlight on the Buckley barn. One hundred years is worth celebrating. That’s how old the barn is this year (historic overview on page 25). Favorite historian and entertainer, Merle Miller tells the tale of the barn each day, and there’s a lot to tell. What would a festivity be without great food, ice cream, kettle corn, sandwiches, drinks and entertainment? We’ll have them all. There’s a puppet show about the Homestead, collectors, horsemen, competition shooters, reenactors of serval time periods, artists, historians, music and more. For updates Friend us on Facebook at Lake County (Indiana) Parks or Buckley Homestead County Park. DID YOU KNOW? The Calumet Astronomy Center is located at Buckley Homestead County Park? The Lake County Parks, the Calumet Astronomical Society and Purdue University Calumet are partners in presenting public astronomy programs as well as advancing scientific research at the university level. BELLABOO’S 22 CAMP NEW Dates Available June 20 – August 11 A Drop-off Camp for Children Ages 3 to 7 (potty trained please) Tuesdays & Thursdays 1 to 4 p.m. OR NEW Mondays & Wednesdays 1 to 4 p.m. EARLY REGISTRATION DISCOUNT: Waived Registration Fee if Enrolled by June 1. One-time only $15 registration fee for each camper (covers cost of supplies and camp t-shirt). Play Pass Holders Receive 10% OFF! CAMP ORIENTATION: For all Registered or Interested Campers to Meet the Fun Conductors Monday, June 20 at 12:30 p.m. or Tuesday, June 21 at 12:30 p.m. Ultimate “Flexible Registration.” Sign up for full camp or pick on a “Per Day” Basis! Don’t forget about our Early Registration Discount – Call for Rates! Monday 6.20 Wednesday 6.22 Monday 6.27 Wednesday 6.29 Monday 7.4 Wednesday 7.6 Monday 7.11 Wednesday 7.13 Monday 7.18 Wednesday 7.20 Monday 7.25 Wednesday 7.27 Monday 8.1 Wednesday 8.3 Monday 8.8 Wednesday 8.10 Jr. Zookeepers Monster Madness Circus Schmirkus Kindie Rock NO CAMP Crocodile Fun Dee Princesses & Dragons Wizard School Raptors, Iguanadons & T-Rex OH MY! Zoom to the Moon Under the Sea Looney Luau Fairytale Forest Chocolate Factory Olympics! HI-YA, Ninjas! Tuesday 6.21 Thursday 6.23 Tuesday 6.28 Thursday 6.30 Tuesday 7.5 Thursday 7.7 Tuesday 7.12 Thursday 7.14 Tuesday 7.19 Thursday 7.21 Tuesday 7.26 Thursday 7.28 Tuesday 8.2 Thursday 8.4 Tuesday 8.9 Thursday 8.11 SPECIAL AFTER HOURS EVENT Eggs Marks the Spot: A PIRATE EGG HUNT…Arrrr! An After Hour’s Interactive Theatre Experience…and Egg Hunt, of course! Thursday, March 24 5:30 to 8 p.m. Little Lads & Lasses (Kids ages 1-9yrs): $10 for the first child, $7.50 for siblings Pirate Babies (under 12 months): FREE Captains & Beauties (Adults and anyone age 10 and older): $5 Pirate Costumes Recommended. Reservations required (reservations begin Feb 1) This one-of-a-kind EGGSTRAVAGANZA is a Whimsical Evening of Hearty Adventure, Swashbuckling Songs and Hidden Treasures. Ahoy Kiddies! Drop Anchor on Captain Bellaboo’s Ship and Enjoy the Hunt for Egg Treasures. This event sells out – call early to reserve! Quiz answers from page 19: Lemon Lake County Park; 160 acres were purchased in 1968; Lemon Lake was dedicated in 1972; At the 1972 March Park Board meeting Lemon Lake County Park was named after the small marsh area that had historically been called by that name. BELLABOO’S 23 CLUB BELLABOO “A Grown-Up & Me Class…& Play!” Little Lessons l Silly Songs l Messy Art l Fun Games l Creative Movements l Interactive Stories on Thursdays from 10:15 to 11. Activities are designed for ages walking to 4 yrs. Spring Session: April 14 – May 5 Fall Session: September 22 - October 13 $64 for the first child $15 for each additional child from the same immediate family All adults included in class price Play Pass holders receive 10% OFF the session fee. Mom to Mom, NWI Preschool Fair & PLAY for FREE! Thursday, April 21 5:30 – 7 p.m. Sponsored by Mom to Mom www.momtomomnwi.com FREE for Parents and Preschool Aged Children Want to know more about local preschools? Not sure where you want to enroll your child? Check out Mom to Mom, NWI Preschool Fair! Local preschools will be present for the meeting, to answer questions and to give you information about their programs. Feel free to stay and play after with your children or bring along another adult so you can visit the preschool booths and the kids can play! Bellaboo’s Café will be OPEN for this dinnertime fare. (Limited capacity for this free event – first come, first served.) If you operate a local preschool and are interested in presenting – please contact Bellaboo’s by Monday, April 11 (219) 963 – 2070. NEW NWI “FREE” Back to School Fair with Bonus FUN! Sponsored by Mom to Mom www.momtomomnwi.com Saturday, August 6 FREE from 2 to 5 p.m. Touch-a-Bus │ Face Painting │Character Visits│ ID Card & Safety Course Outdoor activities weather pending “Little Diggers” is back with a BANG! BOOM! BONG! June - September Every day at 11a.m. Included with the Price of Admission Bellaboo’s flower and vegetable garden is planted, showered and loved by little ones. Featuring garden songs, worm digs and ecofriendly information that young minds can dig their shovels into! Now with additional MUD PLAY, OUTDOOR ART and RECYCLED INSTRUMENTS! (Weather permitting) Weekdays Weekends and Holidays Infant (under 1 year) Free Free Toddlers (1 yr to 23 months) $5.95 $6.95 Children age 2 to 9 $7.95 $9.95 Adults and children 10 yrs plus $3.95 $4.95 Weekdays after 3:30 Bellaboo’s Special – $2 Off admission (adults and children alike). Come play for the evening at a discount! Two Can TUESDAYS Resume! On Tuesdays June – November bring in two cans of non-perishable and not expired food and receive 1 FREE Adult Admission per each paid child. Not valid with any other discount. All proceeds are donated to the NWI Food Bank. Helping you & those in need, thanks for the good deed! 2 Cans + 1 Paid Child = 1 FREE ADULT BELLABOO’S 24 Bellaboo’s’ Play and Discovery Center EVERY DAY IS SPECIAL AT BELLABOO’S but some days call for a LITTLE BIT EXTRA. Activities during the following special theme days are included in the regular admission. Adventures are specifically designed for children from infants to age nine. See page 29 for hours and fees, call 219-963-2070, and visit MyBellaboos.com for fees, specials, maps, birthday party options, play room photos and all about Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center. Little Leprechauns March 7 – 20 “A Party this Fun is Hard to Find and LUCKY to Have… just like your Little Treasure!” DIY Snack at 12, 2:30 & 4:30: Shamrockin’ Shakes with Pot O’ Gold Play at 1:30 On ST. PATRICK’S DAY, March 17 join the LITTLE LEPRECHAUN CELEBRATION for the Green River Water Table | Four-Leaf Clover Search | Reuben Sandwiches | Watercolor Rainbows Spring Break “Seaside” STAYCATION March 21 – April 9 Sand Included; Making your Spring Break a True STAYCATION! DIY Snack at 12, 2:30 & 4:30: Go Fishing with Pirate Play at 1:30 Starting March 21 DINO DIG OPENS! And, check out the NEW INDOOR EXPERIENCE! Seashell Investigation Station | “Rainbow Fish” Felt Board | Mermaid Munchies | Beachball Ball Pit Week of the Young Child April 10 – 17 “Proudly & PLAYFULLY Celebrating our Youngest Learners” DIY Snack at 12, 2:30 & 4:30: Taco Salads with WOYC Marvelous Mish Mash at 1:30 On Sunday, April 10 join the WOYC Marvelous Mish Mash Bash with Design Together Teamwork | Build-a-Box Backdrop | Share Family Stories | Dancer-cize Earth-Friendly Kids April 18 to April 24 It’s the little things (and people!) that can make a big difference to our planet! DIY Snack at 12, 2:30 & 4:30: Fruit Butterfly with Earth Friendly Kids In-Training at 1:30 On EARTH DAY Friday April 22 PEDAL PLAY OPENS - Reduce, Re-Use and Rock and Roll! Recycled Material Maracas | Be a Tree Yoga | Used Stuff Stamp Art | │ Bubble-Wrap Hopscotch Gaga for Mama May 2 – May 8 Celebrating MOMS with Kid-Friendly, “Fancy-Like” Family Fun! DIY Snack at 12, 2:30 & 4:30: Cucumber Sandwiches with Mom & Me Manners Tea at 1:30 On Sunday, May 8 – MOTHERS’ DAY GAGA FOR MAMA HIGH TEA Moms Free! | │Mom Power Photo Fun | │Fancy Hats & Bow Ties│ | Flower Arranging Adventures Memorial Day RACES May 23 to June 5 A Great Day for Racing FUN and Feeling THANKFUL! DIY Snack at 12, 2:30 & 4:30: “S” Car Go with the “Batty” 500 at 1:30 On Monday, May 30 – MEMORIAL DAY RACES PARTY Veterans/Military FREE│ | Field Day Fun | │Fly the Windsock Flag | Plenty of Vroom! I Picnic You, Dad June 13 to June 19 “Quality Playtime with your Childs’ Favorite Playmate – YOU!” DIY Snack at 12, 2:30 & 4:30: Hamburger Cookies with Pitch a Perfect Picnic at 1:30 On Sunday, June 19 – FATHERS’ DAY PICNIC LITTLE DIGGERS GARDEN in BLOOM! Dads Free! │Rad Dad Photo Fun | │Beanbag Toss | Seed Spitting | Fly Swatter Paint Splat LAKE COUNTY PARKS 25 Buckley Barn As a nation and a state and a county there are lots of milestones to recognize in 2016. Our world-class national park system hits 100, Indiana is celebrating a bicentennial, and Lake County Parks is recognizing its own century mark at Buckley Homestead. The Buckley barn is 100 years old. It’s called a bank barn because it’s built into the side of the hill or a bank. The upper part was used only for storing hay and some grain for feeding the animals who were accommodated downstairs. Now used for storing farm equipment and machinery or hosting special activities, back in the day it would have been completely filled with hay. In 1916 when the barn was built, hay was not baled; it was stored loose. The gambrel roof and truss construction allows it to be built higher than a normal style, without posts to get in the way so it could be filled really high with hay. If you look up to the very top ridge, you can see a track. Hay forks were hooked to it by long ropes. Farmers would bring a wagon filled with hay into the barn then lower the forks down and catch loads of hay and carry it to the top of the pile. Horses would be hooked up to the ropes that raised and lowered the hay forks. When they pulled, the hay went up. Children had the job of standing on top of the hay in the barn, pitching the hay down to the sides, because the hay fork would always dump it in the middle. It sounds like fun, but it was dangerous work. The Buckley Homestead reflects a typical farm of its era so what makes it so special? For one thing, it’s still standing. Another is that the Buckley Homestead had been continually owned by the Buckley family since it was settled in 1850 until it was donated to the Lake County Parks in 1977. A Hoosier Homestead plaque, posted along the trail to the north of the orchard, acknowledges that the farm had been owned by the same family for 100 years or more. The Homestead is listed on the National Register of Historic Places . . . and it was a gift from the Buckley family to all of us to enjoy. Want to learn more? See page 21 for “Cheers to 100 Years” special event Deep River Wedding Gazebo Memorial Day Service Monday, May 30 at 2:30 p.m. Vietnam Veterans Memorial Stoney Run County Park Remember and honor those who gave so much for our freedoms Presented by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Committee and hosted by the Lake County Parks Located east of the picturesque Wood’s Historic Grist Mill, this beautiful setting adds to the romance of your special day Make your reservation by calling the business office at 219-769-7275 See LakeCountyParks.com for details Fee is $250 which includes chair set up (Rates subject to change without notice) 26 PARTIES Lake Etta Banquet Hall and Wedding Pergola PARK INFORMATION 27 TRAILS IN YOUR LAKE COUNTY PARKS Where can I go take a hike or just enjoy a quiet stroll? There are more than 100 miles of trails in the Lake County Parks system. We invite you to go to a park near you or investigate a site you’ve never seen and step toward better health while enjoying the wonders of nature. Gate fees apply when gatekeeper is on duty. Gibson Woods: About three miles of wooded looped trails in flat terrain along the dune and swale topography of the nature preserve. An accessible boardwalk begins the trail system permitting those with walking difficulties to venture into the woods. Gibson Woods is owned and managed by the Lake County Parks but it is also dedicated as a State of Indiana Nature Preserve. Due to its significant natural habitat dogs, horses, bicycles, geocaching, cross country skiing, off road and motorized vehicles, and off-trail activities are not permitted in an effort to preserve this very special place. Lake Etta: About two miles in total with a short hard surface trail surrounding the playground and another half mile through natural wetlands with native vegetation that attracts numerous wildlife. An additional trail northeast of the fishing lake connects to the Little Calumet River. Three Rivers: One & 1/4 mile asphalt trail surrounds the lake in a flat, somewhat wooded terrain Deep River: About five miles of wooded, hilly trails along the river north of Wood’s Historic Grist Mill leading to the County Line Road picnic area and the Sulky Track. Conditions of riverfront trails are impacted by flooding and may not always be accessible. Big Maple Lake area has two miles of mixed use horse/pedestrian trails north of Ainsworth Road. of the back 80 acres, hilly, with some woods. These are mixed use horse/ pedestrian trails. Grand Kankakee Marsh: More than 30 miles of flat trails on levees that dissect and connect the Grand Kankakee Marsh. Woods, river and wetlands abound in this birding haven. Trails are mixed use horse/pedestrian. All trails are closed to the public during hunting season. Turkey Creek Golf Course: Golf with a pull cart and walk the course (during off-peak times) Cedar Creek Golf Course: Cedar Creek features an executive 9-hole course with approximately one mile of cart trails. Walk the course for enjoyable exercise or play a round of Foot Golf. Horse riding is permitted in four of the Lake County Parks. See page 30 for details MAPS: Find maps for each of the park sites at http://lakecountyparks.com/ parks.html and click on the park you are seeking. Find REGIONAL HIKE/BIKE TRAIL MAPS at http://www.nirpc.org and click on the Greenways & Blueways link across the top. *Developing Indiana’s First Interstate Bicycle Route is rolling along. It makes good sense to encourage long distance cycling tourism through a mapped route that requires no investment in infrastructure costs. The Erie Lackawanna Trail and the Oak Savannah Trail are on the United States Bicycle Route #36. Oak Ridge Prairie: About five miles of natural surface trails in flat terrain through woods, marsh and prairie overlooking the water. Oak Ridge Prairie is the trailhead for the Oak Savannah Trail. Oak Savannah Trail: Encompasses ten miles of asphalt trail from Oak Ridge Prairie County Park to the Prairie Duneland Trail at the Lake/Porter County Line Road in Portage. Trail users enjoy the journey through savannahs, remnant prairies, wetlands, lakes, parks, and residential neighborhoods. USBR#36* Erie Lackawanna Trail: About one and a half miles of this 12-mile asphalt trail are maintained by the Lake County Parks. Currently roadway access is available from Oak Ridge Prairie; however future plans include a connection between the Oak Savannah Trail and the Erie Lackawanna Trial from Oak Ridge Prairie. USBR#36* Riding on the levees at GKM Stoney Run: About eight miles of trails, with both flat and hilly terrain. The interior trails are mostly wooded with a couple of them leading to ponds. The three mile perimeter trail is a mixed use horse/pedestrian trail April through December. It is closed to equestrians in the winter. Lemon Lake: One mile paved trail around Lemon Lake and the surrounding woods. More than five miles of primitive trails in hilly terrain provides a varied view of open and wooded areas. Buckley Homestead: More than two miles of trails in total at Buckley Homestead. A one mile loop, bark chip trail, connects the visitor center parking lot to the schoolhouse, log cabin and barn, with slight terrain, some hills and woods. There is an additional one and a half mile trail around the perimeter On the boardwalk at Gibson Woods Erie Lackawanna Trail 28 P RENTALS AND FEES Parking Fees and Annual Parking Passes arking fees are collected whenever gatekeepers are present at the following park sites: Lemon Lake, Stoney Run, Oak Ridge Prairie, Lake Etta, and Three Rivers. (All fees are subject to change without notice) Daily Parking Rates $5 per vehicle for Indiana residents $8 per vehicle for non-Indiana residents Senior citizens over age 60 (Indiana residents only) - no fee on Monday mornings $20 per bus for Indiana plates $25 per bus non-Indiana plates Mobile homes are charged at the bus rate Season Passes $40 for Indiana residents $60 non-Indiana residents $30 for Indiana senior citizen over age 60 $45 for non-Indiana senior citizen over age 60 Requirements for Purchasing Parking Pass: When purchasing an annual parking pass you must bring your vehicle registration. You may register up to two vehicles under one pass fee as long as both are registered to the same household and you present a vehicle registration for each. This also applies to Disc Golf passes and Dogwood Run passes since part of the fee is for the annual parking pass. Shelter Rentals Regular Shelters $35 plus tax M-Th $90 plus tax (Indiana resident) Fr, Sa, Su & holiday; $45 plus tax M-Th $125 plus tax (non-Indiana resident) Fr, Sa, Su & holiday; Large Hexagon Shelters $50 plus tax M-Th $125 plus tax (Indiana resident) Fr, Sa, Su & holiday; $65 plus tax M-Th $160 plus tax (non-Indiana resident) Fr, Sa, Su & holiday; Large Group Shelter $75 plus tax M-Th $200 plus tax (Indiana resident) Fr, Sa, Su & holiday; $95 plus tax M-Th $250 plus tax (non-Indiana resident) Fr, Sa, Su & holiday; Lake Etta Pavilion $180 plus tax M-Th $425 plus tax (Indiana resident) Fr, Sa, Su & holiday; $230 plus tax M-Th $525 plus tax (non-Indiana resident) Fr, Sa, Su & holiday; Security Deposits Required HUNTER’S EDUCATION SAFETY COURSE Cedar Creek Family Golf Center Call GKM at 219-552-0033 or check online for dates Friday 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Must attend both sessions and pass a written test) Pre-registration required. Classes fill quickly so register early. DNR is now requiring ONLINE registration ONLY. Go to the following link to register for the above listed classes presented at the Lake County Park or to find other classes in the area http://indianahuntereducation.com/. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources requires all hunters born after 1986 to take this class. All hunters, regardless of age, need this class if they wish to hunt out of state or participate in state-sponsored hunts. Adults are encouraged to Golf Course Fees Turkey Creek Golf Course Daily Fee Schedule Weekdays Weekends 18 holes $19 $26 9 holes $15 $18 Seniors (60+) $12 Student (<19) $12 Leagues $12 Twilight (after 3 p.m.) $12 Twilight (after 3 p.m.) $13 Cart Rental Fees Any Time 18 holes $13 per person 9 holes Season Cart Pass $8 per person $650 per person Tee times and Memberships Tee times are required weekend and holiday mornings. Reserve at 219-980-5170 or see http://www.turkeycreekgolf.com/ to reserve tee times online. Memberships Available: call for details. No metal golf spikes are permitted. Cedar Creek Family Golf Center Daily Fees Executive Course Weekday 9 or 18 holes $10 Weekday Junior/Senior $9 Weekend/Holiday 9 or 18 holes $12 Weekend Junior/Senior $11 Junior must play with an adult Child (under 11) playing with adult $5 Walk Carts $2 Riding Cart 9 or 18 holes (per person)$8 Miniature Golf Regular $5 12 years of age and under $4 Driving Range One token $3 Cedar Creek Memberships Adult $250 Junior (valid for 17 years old & younger) $100 Senior (60+) $200 Cart Membership $200 FootGolf Anytime/Any age (9 or 18 holes) $5 Riding Cart 9 or 18 holes (per person)$8 take the class with their young hunters to be able to reinforce what is taught. Participants will learn about firearms safety, survival, first-aid, wildlife identification and management, hunter responsibility and ethics. It is required that participants take all 10 hours of the class and pass a written exam. Those who pass the exam will receive a certified hunter’s education card that is good for life. Children 12 and younger are required to have an adult present throughout the class. Hunting at Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park This class is an Indiana Department of Natural Resources program. If you have questions contact the DNR at 219-879-5710 or visit them at www. in.gov/dnr. For information about hunting seasons see the Indiana DNR web site at http://www.in.gov/ dnr/fishwild/3569.htm For GKM hunting rules and regulations or hunting season dates contact park staff at 219-552-0033 or click on the Hunting link on the web page at www.LakeCountyParks.com/info_and_fees/fees/ hunting.html Seasons are established by IDNR and posted at www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3569.htm All Fees are Subject to Change Without Notice. PARK INFORMATION Fishing Sites and Information Fishing Fees at Lake Etta and Oak Ridge Prairie Adult, Indiana Resident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15.00 Adult, non-Indiana Resident. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.00 Seniors, Indiana Resident 60+ (Monday only). . . . . . . . . . . . 10.00 Seniors, non-Indiana Resident 60+ (Monday only). . . . . . . . 12.00 Children (12 and younger) per pole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.00/pole Lake Etta – Stocked species: Channel Cat, Bullhead, pan fish in spring when available. Other species found: Largemouth Bass*, Northern Pike, Buffalo, Carp. This is a put-and-take fishing pond open April through October 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. No license is required. Fees charged. Oak Ridge Prairie – Stocked species: Channel Cat. Due to the high cost of fish, we are unable to offer Rainbow Trout. Other species found: Largemouth Bass*, Carp, Bullhead, Bluegill. This is a put-and-take fishing pond open April through October 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. No license is required. Fees charged. Three Rivers – This deep lake supports a natural fish supply even though fish are stocked periodically. Species found: Rainbow Trout, Walleye, Crappie, Bullhead, Perch, Northern, White and Largemouth Bass*, Bluegill, Carp, Sunfish. No license is required. No fishing fees charged. Grand Kankakee Marsh – A series of dikes, channels, and the pond provide shelter for the many species of fish that inhabit the Kankakee River. The park also provides access to fishing on the Kankakee River, which contains Walleye, Northern Pike, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Crappie and Bluegill. An Indiana fishing license is required at this site. No fee. Lemon Lake – Species found: Largemouth Bass*, Bluegill, Bullhead, Carp, Northern Pike. No license required. Currently no stocking and no fishing fee charged. Stoney Run – Species found: Largemouth Bass, Bluegill. No license required. Currently no stocking and no fishing fee charged. Deep River Big Maple Lake – Initially stocked. Currently no stocking or fees. An Indiana fishing license is required. * Catch and release on Largemouth Bass strictly enforced. Additional Information • Fishermen must have a photo I.D. • All rates are based on a two pole limit unless otherwise noted at the park site. • Children must be accompanied by an adult. • Daily catch limit is 10 fish per person; 25 Bullhead and pan fish. • Jon boats and trolling motors are available for rent at Three Rivers. • Only Lake County Parks boats and equipment may be used on the lake at Three Rivers or in any Lake County Park facilities. 29 Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center is Open daily 10 to 6* * Closed on Easter, March 27, Independence Day, July 4, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and August 29 to September 2 for building maintenance. Bellaboo’s closes at 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 24 for event set-up. See MyBellaboos.com for details and specials. Gibson Woods Nature Preserve park hours • Park gates are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March through October • Park gates are open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. November through February • The Environmental Awareness Center is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. year round • Both the EAC and the park gates are closed on Mondays and Holidays • NOTE: The park and the EAC will be closed from Dec. 23, 2016 to Jan 3, 2017 Deep River County Park Visitor Center and Wood’s Historic Grist Mill park hours • • • • • Historic buildings are open Tuesday-Saturday 10-5 & Sunday 12-5 May through October* Historic buildings are closed on Mondays and Holidays (Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day) *Special Winter hours - Open for the holidays the first three Saturdays in December (3, 10 & 17) Park gates are open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset Access to Deep River County Park Wood’s Mill area remains open daily year round from 7 a.m. until sunset. The County Line Road, Sulky Track, and Big Maple Lake entrances are closed during the winter months. Buckley Homestead park hours The park grounds are open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset except during special programs. Parking is in the visitor center lot on Hendricks Road. The farm is a short walk along the trail through the orchard. Weekends in the spring and summer – through Labor Day • The park grounds are open but historical buildings remain closed until weekends in September. During special programs historical buildings may be open. Free weekends unless otherwise noted for a special program. Weekends in the fall – September 10 – October 30 • The Visitor Center and historic buildings are open from noon until 4 p.m. Admission is charged Saturdays and Sundays. Regular Buckley admission of $2 per person or $1 for children age 12 and younger or seniors 60 and older apply. Tickets are required for the Legend of Sleepy Hollow and special event fees are charged for the Fall Festival on October 8 & 9. Check special event weekends for exceptions to these times. Lake Etta Beach: The beach at Lake Etta is open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Holidays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day (excluding Fridays,August 19, 26 & Sept 2) weather permitting. The beach is monitored by lifeguards and requires adherence to safety rules. Regular parking fees are charged. See Fees on page 28 for season pass information. Whihala Beach: The Whiting Parks and Recreation Department is operating Whihala Beach. All inquiries should be directed to them at 219-659-0860. 30 PARK INFORMATION Other Rentals, Fees and Information Buckley Homestead Admission $2 adults $1 children under age 12 $1 senior citizens over age 60 Ball Field Reservations at Lemon Lake Game conditions $30 per field per day Practice conditions $15 per field for 2 hours Banquet Hall at Lake Etta Call 219-949-6533 for reservations. Seats up to 200 people. Banquet Hall at Turkey Creek Call 219-887-3550 for menu choices and reservations. Seats up to 200 Camping at Stoney Run (Groups only) $50 plus tax Non-profit groups only inc. one shelter & firepit. Primitive facilities. Advance reservations required. Cross Country Ski Rentals $7 rental include skis, boots, poles. Oak Ridge Prairie, Stoney Run, Lemon Lake open December-February snow and weather conditions permitting. Fr, Sa, Su & school holidays 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Equipment for use only in the park site and must be returned by 4:30 p.m. (earlier if necessary due to darkness). Note: Closing times may vary due to sunset. Parks close at sunset. No dogs or horses on the ski trails – safety first for everyone. Disc Golf (Lemon Lake) Daily $5.00 per player Annual Pass Indiana resident 70.00 Annual Pass non Indiana resident 90.00 Annual Pass Indiana Senior 60.00 Annual Pass non Indiana Senior 75.00 Annual Disc Golf Pass includes season parking pass. Excludes tournament play. Dogs permitted in the parks Dogs must be on a leash at all times (except in Dogwood Run, the off leash facility at Lemon Lake, or for special activities with prior approval.) Dogs are not permitted at Gibson Woods, on the beach at Lake Etta, Deep River Waterpark or at any of the special events held in the Lake County Parks. Reserved Hayrides Tractor driven rides September-October at Stoney Run, Oak Ridge Prairie, Deep River & Buckley Homestead $100 F, Sa, Su & Holidays; $75 M-Th Maximum number of 25 adults (more children) Wheel chair accessible hayrides at Oak Ridge Prairie (daylight hours and availability of driver). Regular prices apply. Smaller capacity due to wheelchair. Campfire Only $30 available only at hayride parks Non-reserved hayrides $2 at Deep River weekends October 1-30 at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. $2 Buckley Homestead weekends with paid admission Sept. 25-Oct. 30 except Oct. 8 & 9 at 1 & 2 p.m. Horse Riding is permitted at Stoney Run on the perimeter trail, at Deep River on the north side of the park (not the historic area), at Buckley Homestead in the back 80 on non-special event weekends, and at the Grand Kankakee Marsh on the levees except during hunting season. Horse trails are closed at Stoney Run Jan-March. Gate fees apply at the parks when a gatekeeper is on duty. Horseback riding is restricted at the parks during special events. Call 219-769-PARK for specific dates. Wedding Gazebo at Deep River $250 Wood’s Historic Grist Mill at Deep RiverDonation DOGWOOD RUN Dogwood Run is a leash-free area just for pooches at Lemon Lake east of shelters 6 & 7. Turn right at the first road after the gatehouse. The 14-acre facility is divided into two sections, allowing for alternate usage permitting re-growth in one while the other is in use. Registration and an annual “Pooch Pass” permit are required for each dog using the facility. The annual Pooch Pass is a dog tag that must be worn on the dog’s collar. Call 219-769-PARK to purchase annual passes or stop by the Lake County Parks corporate office at 8411 E. Lincoln Highway just west of Deep River Waterpark on U.S. 30. Office hours are M-F 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Annual Pooch Pass Indiana resident $70 Annual Pooch Pass Non Indiana resident $90 Annual Pooch Pass Indiana senior (over 60) $60 Annual Pooch Pass Non Indiana senior (over 60) $75 One time tryout Pass per dog* $10 Each additional dog $10 Daily hours: 7 a.m. until one-half hour before sunset Annual Pooch Pass includes the Lake County Parks season parking pass * keep receipt so payment can be subtracted from the annual Pooch Pass RULES FOR USAGE OF LEMON LAKE DOGWOOD RUN • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Dogs must be leashed until safely and securely inside Dogwood Run. Dogs must wear POOCH PASS while inside Dogwood Run. Dogs must bear ID - collar tag or microchip. Dogs must have current Rabies shots and other vaccinations as required by law, including Parvo and Distemper, (tiders are not sufficient proof of vaccination at this time). Dogs must be supervised and under voice control at all times and are the responsibility and liability exclusively of the owner. If you cannot control your dog(s) off-leash, then they must remain leashed. Dogs may not be left unattended or out of sight range. Dogs can easily become lost in large areas, especially in winter when their sense of smell is less keen. Owners must carry one leash per dog at all times while in Dogwood Run. Dogs must be on leash before leaving Dogwood Run. Dogs must be leashed in all other areas of the park site. No more than three dogs per person are permitted in Dogwood Run at any time. Each must have a tag. Do not allow your pet to harass humans, other pets, or wildlife. Children age 12 and younger are not allowed in Dogwood Run. No glass containers are permitted in Dogwood Run. Dogs, owners and users creating a disturbance or violating posted rules must leave Dogwood Run if requested by law enforcement, park personnel or their designated agents. The park department reserves the right to suspend or r evoke a Dogwood Run pass if a dog exhibits hostile behavior toward other dogs or people. No eating or smoking while inside Dogwood Run. Food wrappers and cigarette butts are tempting and unhealthy for dogs. DOGS NOT PERMITTED IN DOGWOOD RUN • Dogs known to exhibit vicious, fierce, aggressive, or dangerous behavior. • Dogs less than 4 months old. • Dogs in heat. • Lake County Ordinance #1244F states that Pit Bull and Pit Bull mixes are prohibited from participating in unleashed dog parks. We are required to uphold this county ordinance. ETIQUETTE • Observe all park rules at all times. • Always clean up after your dog. Dog waste must be picked up and properly disposed of. • Trash receptacles and disposal bags are available near Dogwood Run for this purpose. • Extend courtesy to other users. If your dog(s) become unruly or aggressive to other dogs or people, leash your dog(s) and exit Dogwood Run. • Please limit your use of Dogwood Run to one hour during peak times. OTHER INFORMATION • Owners need to be aware of natural hazards such as burrs, ticks, fleas, poisonous plants, common wildlife, and contact with other dogs. • There is a water fountain near the leash-free area, but we suggest you bring your pet ample water in case the fountain is not working properly. • Fees help with the costs of development and maintenance of the leash-free area. PARK INFORMATION 2016 Deep River Waterpark - Daily Rates Daily Rates Regular admission Under 46” 12 months and younger Over 60 years old In-state discount Mon-FriSat-Sun 23.95 24.95 15.95 16.95 Free Free 19.95 20.95 discount $2.00 from regular admission After 2 pm Regular admission Under 46” 12 months and younger Over 60 years old In-state discount 20.95 21.95 12.95 13.95 Free Free 16.95 17.95 discount $2.00 from regular admission Tubin’ Tuesday after 5 pm Regular admission 15.00 Under 46” and Senior Citizens (over 60)11.00 No discounts. No in-state discount Join the fun on Tubin’ Tuesday when the park remains open until 9:30 p.m. June 14 - August 2. It’s a great way to treat the family to a special summer evening. Deep River Waterpark Season Passes Early season discount: November 11, 2015 through February 29, 2016 $69.95 Second season period: March 1, 2016 through May 31, 2016 89.95 Regular price: June 1, 2016 through end of season 129.95 If a guest wishes to purchase a pass he/she may take the entrance fee for that day and apply it toward a season pass purchase. Admissions may be applied to season pass purchases on a one-to-one basis only. Go to www.DeepRiverWaterpark.com for coupons and early and late season fees. For group rates, corporate buyouts, birthday parties, catering, day group rates, or other information, call the Waterpark at 219-947-7850 ext. 604 or see the website. Check the website for specials and join the eNewsletter mailing list for updates ALL LAKE COUNTY PARKS FEES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE www.DeepRiverWaterpark.com 31 PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID CROWN POINT, IN PERMIT NO 299 8411 East Lincoln Hwy Phone: 219-769-PARK Crown Point, Indiana 46307 Fax: 219-945-0452 MARK YOUR CALENDARS! August 31 Tickets for Legend of Sleepy Hollow on sale Deep River Waterpark November 12 Veteran’s Recognition Service Sept. 16, 17, 23 & 24 Legend of Sleepy Hollow Buckley Homestead November 25 Ice Skating Plaza Opens Deep River Waterpark Stoney Run Oct. 8 & 9 Fall Festival Buckley Homestead December 31 Family Friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration Deep River Waterpark October 27 Black Cat’s Meow costume party Bellaboo’s December 31 New Year’s Eve “Bellabration” Bellaboo’s Refund Policies Programs and Events: If the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department cancels the program or service you have selected due to circumstances beyond our control or due to insufficient enrollment, you may choose to re-schedule your date, if appropriate, or receive a full refund. All other cancellations must be made at least five (5) days in advance by notifying the corporate office for a full refund. Hayrides: If the LCPRD cancels a hayride due to poor weather conditions or mechanical failure, staff will make every effort to contact the reservation holder. Note: All rescheduled hayrides must be made in the same calendar year no later than October 31; however rides are limited and can only be rescheduled according to availability. Otherwise, a full refund will be issued to the reservation holder. Photo Policy On occasion, Lake County Parks staff and volunteers may take photos of participants in programs, classes, events, people in the parks, or on park properties. Please be aware that these photos are for use by the Lake County Parks only and may be used in brochures, pamphlets, flyers, or other promotional materials. If you wish to be excluded please inform the program coordinator or park management. All other hayride cancellations must be made five (5) business days in advance for a refund. Cancellations can only be done through the corporate office, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. For any hayride cancellation received less than five (5) business days, a refund less $15.00 per ride will be issued. Cancellations cannot be done at the park site. Note: The original permit and receipt must be returned for all refunds to be processed and must be returned to the corporate office. Shelters: Parties reserving shelters, who notify the corporate office no later than ten (10) working days in advance of their reservation, may obtain a full refund or reschedule another date based on availability. No refund will be given if notification is received by the corporate office less than ten (10) days prior to the reservation date. Regulations of the U.S. Department of the Interior strictly prohibit unlawful discrimination in departmental programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, age or disability. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against in any program, activity, facility, or desires further information regarding Title VI or subtitle A of title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Pub. L. 101-336, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disabilty by public entities should write to: The Lake County Parks & Recreation Dept. Attn: Human Resource 84411 E. Lincoln Highway Crown Point, IN 46307 or The National Park Service Attn: Director, Equal Opportunity Program P.O. Box 37127 Washington, D.C.20013-7127