
Relatively shallow man-made lake with a public playground, walking trail, and beach along a large section of the shore. Great place to go fishing, paddle boarding, or just cool off with a swim, especially if you're looking to bring a dog.
IF YOU ARE SWIMMING, have a plan to rinse off the lake water when you are done; there are posted warnings about swimmer's itch. I have been here quite a few times with my dogs and have never had any symptoms, but I always make sure to bring a jug of clean water to rinse off my dogs before going home. I live nearby so I just go home and shower within an hour or so of getting out.
More detailed description of Island Lake:
In terms of amenities: there is a small launch spot for non-motorized boats (paddle boards, kayaks, etc) at the lodge parking lot. Motorized craft are prohibited because the lake is mostly shallow with an abundance of plant life growing on or just beneath the surface.
I have not been inside the lodge itself and I believe it is still closed due to an abundance of COVID-19 caution. However, it seems to be an event space for local gatherings.
Behind the lodge is a small field with a playground/ jungle gym, that leads into the walking path along the lake shore.
There are several spots along the paved path to the beach where people have cleared out spots to fish and swim more privately. This is a great option for people with rowdy dogs or kids. Just be aware that the public beach is the only place where fishing is strictly prohibited, so there may be fishing line snagged on the shallow water lilies and grasses. Last summer we were really disappointed at the amount of litter in these spots, so please try to take out what you bring in.
the public beach is sandy and relatively spacious with several picnic tables. There is a reasonable amount of shade, and there are trash cans. It does have an outdoor shower to help people rinse off after swimming, but the last few times I've gone (June '21) it was not working. As far as I can tell, the public beach is not monitored by a lifeguard, and there are no restrictions for dogs swimming there, as long as you are respectful to others trying to...
Read moreMinimalist "ship wreck" would be more like it. Not sure what design it represents. Yes,The pool was the highlight. The one and a half sauna not so much. I wonder about pool maintenance. There was a noticeable discoloration around the poll's tiles that could be rubbed off with your finger. The open gathering area with lerticle gas log gave it a nice appearance, more aesthetic than functional. There was a wonderful "rain shower" rinsing off station-very warm for a cold day.
The reception staff were very polite, but requests for assistance were either slow or failed to follow thru. Everything is rather sparten. The our room, like most I could view, resembled wooden packing crates as their theme. There were two plastic chairs, a 2 foot square desk/table and one shelf under the tv screen for whatever. The queen beds were interesting, but not to my liking. The floor covering was some vinyl material. I assume that's because it's easier to clean than carpet. Understandable given beach sand gets everywhere. Not to mention, and not to offend pet lovers, dog hair. Yes this certainly is a pet friendly hotel...They were everywhere. They did have good, free coffee in the sparse lobby, a d bicycles available. The beach was a few hundred yards away. Our partial "ocean view" was actually of the south side parking lot and swimming pool building. The bathroom was pretty standard. Small vanity and small closet. They did provide a hair dryer. After two days the little refer finally cold contents down to about 40 degrees. And there are only 2 lights in the living area which did little. We arrived on one of the hottest September days (98 degrees) and the south facing room was just about the same. There is of course no AC, but there was one of those tower fans that couldn't blow out a candle if it had to. I did request a breeze box fan, but did little when placed in the wind. Certainly others found the place charming, convenient and had all their expection fulfilled. After a 4 hour drive, ...
Read moreIsland lake park has a little bit of something for everyone. It is one of the few places around that has a sandy beach where kids can play in the shallow water or people can lay out on the sand and soak up some sun. If you do go in the water, be sure to rinse off shortly afterward, there are signs warning swimmers of duck mites which can cause skin irritation after exposure. There are plenty of nature trails to go for a walk, run or explore. as well as a few spread out grassy fields where families can have a picnic, people can throw a Frisbee or play with dogs. There are also a couple play areas, one with a swing and another with a playground. There's plenty of tree cover to find shade on a sunny day and built structures for inclement weather. There are facilities for rent where events and parties can be held rain or shine, and the price is very reasonable. Also nearby is Christa Camps. The park is always a pleasant place to visit and it is pretty well maintained. Sometimes you do need to watch your step for goose droppings and some of the play equipment for the kids is wearing out. Overall it's a wonderful way to get...
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