I’m giving this 5 stars because it is my son’s favorite place to go during the summer. It’s a small, simple state park that offers picnic tables and grills on both sides of the small beach and swimming area, which has made it easy to keep an eye on the kiddos when it’s time to prepare food. The bathrooms are right there as well, easily accessible, and clean. There is no lifeguard on duty which makes the swimming and playing experience much better IMO. Whether it’s tossing a ball around, diving for fish, fresh water mussels, crayfish, or items that people have lost in the water, there’s no fun police to squash whatever it is you enjoy. Even when the park is full, we’ve never had an issue with finding our own space and have only had good experiences with other people doing their own thing. Paddle boarding, kayaking/canoeing, swimming across the lake, fishing, or hiking there’s something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. Lastly, the tower trail is a relatively short 15 minute hike to the top with 360° views from the top of the tower. Sunsets over the lake are especially nice.
The only downside is the geese and the dirty little minefields you may encounter. If you’re nervous about them acting aggressive when you walk by them or they get to close, a word of advice, don’t look directly at them and they won’t feel threatened. Please don’t intentionally feed them it only makes them act more territorial. Enjoy!