LAKE COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT RENTALS AND FEES

(All fees are subject to change without notice)

HELPFUL PARK USAGE INFORMATION

Dear Lake County Park Visitor,

We are happy that you have chosen one of the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department facilities for your upcoming activity.  We hope the following information will help you and others in your group have a safe and enjoyable experience.  If you have questions we recommend you call us as far in advance of your reservation as possible at 219-769-PARK. 

Important information to help you enjoy your park experience

GATE FEE:  There is a gate fee collected at Lake Etta, Three Rivers, Oak Ridge Prairie, Lemon Lake, and Stoney Run when a gatekeeper is on duty.  This fee is separate from the shelter rental.  Please make certain all members of your group are aware of the gate fee in advance of their visit.

PARK HOURS:  The parks are open from 7 a.m. until sunset.  Sunset varies throughout the year.  Shelter rentals are reserved from 10 a.m. until sunset.

SHELTER RENTAL:  Shelter rentals are intended to serve as a gathering for family, friends and organizations. 

Special events, fund-raisers, and events promoted to the public require special permission from the park board.

Your shelter rental includes the shelter number listed on your reservation form and the surrounding 50 feet outside that shelter, plus the tables in the shelter.  It is important that you rent facilities that will accommodate the number in your group.  Additional tables and garbage cans will not be moved, as they are for other park visitors. Do not assume that unoccupied picnic shelters are not reserved.  Check with the gatekeeper or on-site park personnel about availability.

DAMAGE CLEAN UP DEPOSIT:  A deposit may be collected when the reservation is made.  It will be returned following your reservation if the park site is acceptable to the park manager and no unreasonable damage is incurred.  If a credit card is used for the deposit, the charge will be removed from your account.

NOISE:  Due to the close proximity of other shelters and picnic areas, amplified music, microphones, loudspeakers, starter pistols, musical instruments are not permitted.  Please respect the privacy of other park visitors.

ALCOHOL:  Consumption of beer and wine (no kegs without special permit open to caterers) is limited to picnic areas with meals and is prohibited on trails, roadways, parking lots, beaches, other aquatic areas, and open play areas.  Other alcohol is not permitted in the parks.  The park is for the enjoyment of all, so proper behavior must be observed.  The sale of beer is prohibited without a special permit from the Park Board and appropriate permits from the State of Indiana. 

LARGE GROUPS:  For large picnic groups (more than 200 people) when alcohol will be consumed, a security officer, who shall be obtained by the Lake County Parks Department at the expense of the person(s) making the reservation, is required.  Additional security officers are required for each additional 200 people.

SOLICITING:  Soliciting, peddling, collecting fees or fund-raising is not allowed on park property without an official permit. 

FIRES:  Fires are permitted only in established grills or privately owned grills.  Never place portable grills or stoves on picnic tables.  Completely extinguish your charcoal prior to disposal.  Use hot charcoal containers where available.  Do not dump coals on the ground. Fires must be continuously attended under the care and direction of a competent person.  No fire shall be built within ten feet of any tree or building, or beneath the branches of any trees or in underbrush.  Deep Fryers are not permitted.

FIREWORKS:  Due to fire and other safety hazards, fireworks of any kind on park grounds are strictly forbidden.

EQUIPMENT:  Recreational awnings, tents, generators, or other additional equipment requires prior approval of the park department.  Concessionaires for recreational equipment, such as moon walks, must provide proof of insurance and release the Lake County Parks from responsibility at least ten working days prior to the rental date.

VEHICLES:  For safety reasons, motorists are to observe speed limits as posted.  Vehicles are allowed only on roadways and in parking areas.  VEHICLES ARE NOT ALLOWED ON THE GRASS OR BRICK WALKWAYS.

PETS:  Pets shall be on a leash not more than six feet in length and under the owner’s control at all times.  Owners are responsible for cleanup after their pets.  Please be aware that many people are fearful of dogs.  Pets are not allowed at aquatic operations, including the beaches, Deep River Waterpark, at special events, or at Gibson Woods Nature Preserve.

The shelters near Dogwood Run at Lemon Lake are available for rent for groups with dogs.  However dogs must be leashed unless they are in Dogwood Run.  Users of Dogwood Run must follow all procedures.  Please note:  In 2007 the Lake County Sheriff’s Department instituted an ordinance requiring pit bulls and pit bull breeds to be muzzled, secured on a leash no longer than 4 feet, and in a walking harness.  Therefore, Pit Bull breeds are not allowed in Dogwood Run.

ENVIRONMENTAL:  The gathering of living or non-living plant material for firewood or other purposes is not allowed.  Due to the environmental damage that can result from the use of certain chemicals in insecticides, no spraying or fogging is allowed.  

REMOVAL OF PROPERTY AND NATURAL FEATURES:  Removal of artifacts, animals, plants, rocks or other features is prohibited.  Metal detecting is not permitted on park properties.

HORSEBACK RIDING:  Horseback riding is allowed ONLY on designated trails on the Grand Kankakee Marsh levee trails (except during hunting season), Stoney Run perimeter trail, Buckley Homestead and Deep River County Park where parking is available at the County Line Road entrance (horses are NOT allowed in the Visitor Center, Grist Mill, Gazebo, or picnic areas).

PROJECTILES:  The hitting of golf balls (other than on the golf courses) or any projectile, archery, engine powered model airplanes, boats, and cars are not allowed. 

WATER SAFETY:  Swimming and the use of water craft are not permitted except in designated areas. Swimming is allowed only when lifeguards are on duty.

WILDLIFE:  Hunting (except in areas designated for such purposes) or trapping any wild bird or animal is prohibited.  Help preserve the park’s natural areas and that of its inhabitants.

SAFETY RULES ON BEACHES AND DEEP RIVER WATERPARK:  The following are prohibited:  Alcoholic beverages, glass containers, flotation devices, horseplay, fires or grills, unsupervised children, pets, swimming in non-designated areas, vehicles on the beach, swimming when lifeguards are not on duty, swimming past chest-deep water at beaches, tampering with lifeguard equipment.

RECYCLING AND CLEAN UP:  Your use of trash receptacles helps keep the environment clean.  Please lend a hand in keeping the park beautiful and ready for the next visitor.

LAKE COUNTY PARKS REFUND AND CANCELLATION POLICY:  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 at no additional cost.  No refund will be given if notification is received by the business office less than ten (10) days.

INFORMATION:  We hope we’ve answered all your questions, but if you have a situation not listed, please call us at 219-769-PARK.

Receipts from admission and service charges are used to help defray the operation and maintenance costs of the Lake County Parks.                                                                                                              Revised 2008

2011 DEEP RIVER WEDDING GAZEBO

The Deep River Gazebo is the perfect setting for your wedding.  Located east of the picturesque Historic Wood's Grist Mill, the gazebo adds to the romance of that special day.  Make your reservation by calling the corporate office at the numbers listed below.  The fee is $250, which includes chair usage (rates are subject to change without notice).

 

2011 FISHING FEES

Oak Ridge Prairie, Lake Etta, and Three Rivers County Parks offer put-and-take fishing ponds.  Fishing is open April through October from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily.  NO LICENSE is required at these three park sites.  Fees are charged.  Stocking dates vary based on weather conditions and availability of fish.  

Due to the very high cost of purchasing trout, there will be no trout fishing program at Oak Ridge Prairie.  The Lake County Parks regrets that they cannot present this opportunity, but circumstances are beyond our control.  We will continue to stock catfish.  Call 219-769-PARK to find out specific dates.  Trout fees, when the program is available, are higher based on the availability of fish.  All fess are subject to change without notice.

2011 Regular Fishing Fees at Oak Ridge Prairie and Lake Etta County Parks
  Lake County Residents Non-Lake County Residents
Adults $15 $17
Children (12 & younger) $7 per pole $7 per pole
Senior Citizens (over 60 only on Mondays) $11 $12

2011 Regular Fishing Fees at Three Rivers County Park
  Lake County Residents Non-Lake County Residents
Adults $10 $11
Children (12 & younger) $6 per pole $6 per pole
Senior Citizens (over 60 only on Mondays) $7 $8

Ice Fishing Fees at Three Rivers

Ice Fishing permitted from 7 a.m. until sunset when the ice is a minimum of 4" deep at Three Rivers. Park staff will post ice conditions at the gatehouse. Call Three Rivers at 219-962-7810 to verify ice fishing conditions before going to the park.

TROUT Fishing at Oak Ridge Prairie -  Note: season depending upon availability of fish.  THERE WILL BE NO TROUT FISHING PROGRAM DUE TO THE COST OF FISH.

ADDITIONAL FISHING INFORMATION

  • All fishermen must have a photo I.D.  
  • Daily catch limit is 10 fish per person.  Two pole limit per person.  
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Catch and release on all large mouth bass, strictly enforced.
  • Jon boats and trolling motors available for rent at Three Rivers.  Only Lake County Parks boats and equipment may be used on the lake.
  • No fishing license is required at Oak Ridge Prairie, Lake Etta or Three Rivers.  
  • A state fishing license IS required at the Grand Kankakee Marsh and Whihala Beach
  • Currently there is no stocking and no fees charged at Lemon Lake and Stoney Run (they are great places to teach you child how to fish)
  • Catch and release on Largemouth bass is strictly enforces.
 


JON BOAT RENTALS AT THREE RIVERS  $5 plus tax for four hours (available on weekends)
TROLLING MOTORS AT THREE RIVERS   $5 plus tax for four hours (available on weekends)
ROW BOATS  (where available) $5 plus tax for one hour

Lake County Parks Fishing Sites and Information

Lake Etta, Oak Ridge Prairie, and Three Rivers County Parks offer put-and-take fishing ponds. Fishing is open April through October from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily. NO LICENSE is required at these sites. Fees are charged.

Lake Etta – Stocked species: Channel Cat, Bullhead, pan fish in spring when available. Other species found: Largemouth Bass,  Northern Pike, Buffalo, Carp. Catch and release Largemouth Bass is strictly enforced.

Oak Ridge Prairie – Stocked species: NO TROUT IN 2009, Channel Cat. Other species found: Largemouth Bass, Carp, Bullhead, Bluegill. Catch and release Largemouth Bass is strictly enforced.

Three Rivers – The 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. Catch and release Largemouth Bass is strictly enforced.

Grand Kankakee Marsh – The series of dikes, channels, and the pond provide shelter for the many species of fish that inhabit the Kankakee River and, at times of higher water. The park also provides access to fishing on the Kankakee River, which contains Walleye, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Crappie and Bluegill. No fees are charged.  An Indiana fishing license is required at this site.

Whihala Beach – Access to Lake Michigan is available from the fishing pier at the west end of the park. Enter from the west past the Hammond Marina. An Indiana fishing license is required at this site.

Lemon Lake – Species found: Largemouth Bass, Bullhead, Carp, Northern Pike. No license required. Currently, no fees charged. Catch and release Largemouth Bass is strictly enforced.

Stoney Run – Species found: Largemouth Bass. No license required. Currently, no fees charged. Catch and release Largemouth Bass is strictly enforced.

Whihala Beach
 The Whiting Parks and Recreation Department is operating Whihala Beach.  All inquiries should be directed to them at 219-659-0860.

Hunting Fees at Grand Kankakee Marsh   
 Click here for Grand Kankakee Marsh Hunting information and Hunter Education Courses
 For information about hunting see the Indiana DNR web site at www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/hunt/seasson2.htm

HUNTER’S EDUCATION SAFETY COURSES
 Click here for Grand Kankakee Marsh Hunting information and Hunter Education Courses 
For information about hunting courses in Indiana see DNR web site at http://www.in.gov/dnr/lawenfor/4812.htm

Other Fees, Rentals, and Info
Buckley Homestead Admission
Adult 2.00
Children under age 12  1.00
Senior citizens over age 60 1.00
Ball Field Reservations at Lemon Lake
Game conditions per field per day (excluding league play) 30.00
Practice conditions (two hours) 15.00
Banquet on the Green at Turkey Creek Golf Course                                                         Call 219-887-3550 for menu choices and reservation.  Seats up to 200
Banquet Hall at Lake Etta                                                                                          
Call 219-949-6533 for menu choices and reservations.  Seats up to 200
Camping at Stoney Run
Non-profit groups only inc. one shelter & firepit. Primitive facilities.  Advance reservations required. $50 plus tax
Cross Country Ski Rentals
Oak Ridge Prairie and Stoney Run open Dec-Feb; Lemon Lake open Dec-March, snow and weather conditions permitting.  Weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Last rental at 4 p.m.  Equipment for use only in the park site and must be returned by 5 p.m.  Note:  closing times may vary due to extreme darkness or sunset, as parks close at sunset.. $5 for 2 hrs
Disc Golf (Lemon Lake)
Daily $4.00 per player
Annual Pass Lake County resident 70.00
Annual Pass non Lake County resident 90.00
Annual Pass Lake County Senior 60.00
Annual Pass non Lake County Senior 75.00
Annual Disc Golf Pass includes season parking pass.*  Excludes tournament play.
* Requirements for obtaining Parking Pass:  When purchasing a 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.
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 beaches, or at any of the special events held in the Lake County Parks

Dogwood Run at Lemon Lake -- Annual fee: $70 Lake County resident; $90 out-of-county; $60 Lake County senior (over 60); $75 out-of-county senior (over 60).  All rates include parking pass*  Fees are for the first dog with $5 for each additional dog. Daily trial run fee: $10 per dog (this is a one time fee charged to those without an annual pooch pass who want to try out the run.  This fee may be applied toward the annual pooch pass so keep your receipt).  For rules and additional information click here Dogwood Run 

* Requirements for obtaining Parking Pass:  When purchasing a 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.

Hayrides
Monday through Thursday 50.00
Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 75.00
Buckley - Horsedrawn 100.00
Maximum number of 25 adults (more if children).  Wheel chair accessible hayrides at Oak Ridge Prairie (daylight hours)
Campfire only Available only at parks conducting hayrides. 30.00
Non-reserved hayrides
Deep River (tractor) October weekends $2 per person
Buckley Homestead in daytime fall weekends with paid admission (horse-drawn) $2 per person
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.  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.
Recreation Equipment Rental
Athletic equipment per set per day (when available) 5.00
Paddleboats at Lemon Lake* & Lake Etta (Fr,Sa,Su,holidays)
* Paddleboat rentals are closed at Lemon Lake until further notice due to dock repairs		 $5 for 1/2 hour
Jon Boat -- Three Rivers only (weekends) $5 for 4 hrs
Trolling motor -- Three Rivers only (weekends) $5 for 4 hrs
Wedding Gazebo at Deep River 250.00
Wood's Historic Grist Mill Admission Deep River Donation

Geocaching in the Lake County Parks

There are twelve parks and other natural areas in the Lake County system, many of which are popular locations for geocaching.  Since geocaches are generally placed off the trail, and we discourage off trail usage, we require respectful placement of caches in places where damage to the park is unlikely to occur. 

  • Whihala Beach County Park, Whiting, IN – Geocaching is banned

  • Gibson Woods Nature Preserve, Hammond, IN – Geocaching is banned

  • Lake Etta County Park, Gary, IN

  • Three Rivers County Park, Lake Station, IN

  • Oak Ridge Prairie County Park, Griffith, IN

  • Turkey Creek Golf Course, Merrillville, IN – Geocaching is banned

  • Deep River County Park, Merrillville, IN

  • Deep River Waterpark, Merrillville, IN – Geocaching is banned

  • Cedar Creek Family Golf Center, Cedar Lake, IN – Geocaching is banned

  • Lemon Lake County Park, Crown Point, IN

  • Stoney Run County Park, Leroy, IN

  • Buckley Homestead Living History Farm, Lowell, IN

  • Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park, Hebron, IN – Geocaching not permitted during hunting season

  • Oak Savannah Trail – trailhead at Oak Ridge Prairie then east to County Line Road in Hobart, IN

  • Erie Lackawanna Trail – Lake County Parks manages the section between Griffith and Schererville

Procedure for placing a cache in the Lake County Parks

Permission is required prior to placing a cache in any of the Lake County Parks. Geocaching is banned at Gibson Woods Nature Preserve and in certain sensitive areas of other parks as well as on the golf courses and at Deep River Waterpark.

Scout the area of the park where you wish to place a cache and then contact info@lakecountyparks.com with a request providing the specific area of a particular park for each cache.  The Lake County Parks coordinator will contact the park manager who will verify the acceptability of the location(s).  Do not place your cache until approval is received.  Once approval is granted via email you may place the cache in the park and post it on www.geocaching.com. 

Additional regulations

  • Placing and searching for geocaches may only take place during normal park hours in park areas open to the public.
  • Some of the parks have parking fees when the gatekeeper is on duty.  Geocachers are subject to that fee. 
  • Caches must be registered on the Internet with www.Geocaching.com and must comply with all guidelines established by Geocaching.com
  • Caches must not be placed so that finding them encourages park visitors to make new trails. Nor can they be placed in locations that will encourage erosion or trail damage.
  • Cutting or modification of any vegetation or modification of geographical features is prohibited.  Caches may not be buried, or located within a water body.
  • Altering park signs, fences, posts, trails, trail markers or any park building is prohibited. 
  • Caches may not be placed on or near potentially hazardous locations.
  • Caches must not interfere with wildlife or other park visitors.
  • Caches may not contain inappropriate, hazardous or illegal materials such as flammables, explosives or food.
  • Caches may not be located on or in park buildings or structures or within designated historic or cultural resource areas.
  • Caches must be maintained by the owner. Caches that have been abandoned and not maintained will be considered as litter and removed.
  • The Lake County Parks reserves the right to remove any cache that has been determined to be inappropriate either in location or content, hazardous or has an impact to other park visitors, park neighbors or natural or cultural resources.
  • Make certain that your cache meets all the requirements and geocaching guidelines as posted on geocaching com.  Review these during your research. Issues of concern include cache saturation, commerciality, solicitation and long-term cache maintenance.

The staff and volunteers for the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department appreciate the efforts of the many geocachers in the park system.  We have certainly seen an increase in visitation at some of the parks directly due to the placement of geocaches.

2011 Turkey Creek Golf Course Fees

Turkey Creek Golf Course, 6400 Harrison St. in Merrillville opens for the season in April (weather permitting).  This course include 18 challenging holes, several water hazards, sand traps, a clubhouse, pro shop, and banquet facilities that seat up to 200 people 

Call 219-980-5170 to reserve tee times and for course information.

Call 219-887-3550 for banquet reservations.

Daily fee schedule
DAILY FEES WEEKDAYS WEEKENDS
18 holes $19 $26
9 holes $16 $19
Leagues $12
Seniors (60+) $12
Student (<19) $12
Twilight (after 3 p.m.) $12 $14

Cart Rental Fees
  ANY TIME
18 hole $12 per person)
9 hole $8 per person)
SEASON CART PASS $600 per person

Tee times are required weekend and holiday mornings.  No metal golf spikes permitted.  Call 219-887-3550 for banquet reservations.  

Turkey Creek MEMBERSHIPS

  • Seniors Unlimited  (60 & older)     $595
  • Seniors Weekday  (60 & older)     $465
  • Full Time Student (19 & younger)  $150
  • Adult, Single Unlimited                 $675
  • Adult weekday membership          $595
  • Husband/Wife Unlimited               $930
  • Senior Husband/Wife Unlimited (60 & older)  $755
 Cedar Creek Family Golf Center 2011 Daily Fees
Executive Course
Weekday 9 or 18 holes 11.00
Weekday Junior/Senior 10.00
Weekend/Holiday 9 or 18 holes 13.00
Weekend Junior/Senior (Junior must play with an adult) 12.00
Child (under 11) playing with adult 5.00
Walk Carts 2.00
Riding Cart 9 or 18 holes 7.50/person
Trail Fee, annual 250.00
Miniature Golf
Regular 5.00
12 years and under 4.00
Driving Range
Small bucket 1 token
Medium Bucket 2 tokens
Large Bucket 3 tokens
One token 3.00
Four tokens 10.00
Cedar Creek Memberships
Family* 1000.00
Junior** Premium - Any Day 125.00
Senior*** Premium - Any Day 275.00
Senior*** Weekday 250.00
Senior*** Couple Premium 500.00
Senior*** Couple Weekday 450.00
Individual Premium 375.00
Individual Weekday 325.00
Couple Premium 700.00
Couple Weekday 600.00
* Family membership valid for 2 adults and 3 children (high school age or younger)
** Junior membership valid for 17 years old & younger
*** Senior membership valid for 60 years and older

HAYRIDES - 2011 Fees
 (by reservation)

Reservations for tractor drawn hayrides are offered at the following park sites in September and October: Lemon Lake, Stoney Run, Oak Ridge Prairie, Deep River, and Buckley Homestead County Parks. Maximum number per ride is 25 adults.  May get more on ride if all children.

  • Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Holidays — $75.00 per ride
  • Monday through Thursday — $50.00 per ride
  • Horse-drawn hayrides at Buckley Homestead — $100.00 per ride (only during daylight hours).
  • Wheelchair accessible hay wagon at Oak Ridge Prairie County Park.  Regular fees apply.  Daytime only.  Dependent upon availability of driver.

2011 NON-RESERVED HAYRIDES
(for individuals and families)

Buckley Homestead - Enjoy the quiet, steady pace of the horses as they pull the hay wagon around the back 80 acre trail. Look for pheasant, deer, and coyote as you travel through the wooded areas and open fields. Individuals and families may ride on a first-come, first-serve basis on Saturdays and Sundays in September 25 through and October 30 (except during the Fall Festival on October 8 & 9) at 1 and 2 p.m. for only $2 per person.  Remember: Groups may reserve evening hayrides by calling the business office at 219-769-PARK.

Deep River - Take a ride over the river and through the woods along the trails of Deep River. Individuals and families may ride on a first-come, first-serve basis on Saturdays and Sundays October 1-23  at 1:30 and 2:30 for only $2 per person. Groups may reserve evening hayrides by calling the business office at 219-769-PARK.

Bonfire Only -- $50 available only a hayride parks

BEACHES
 The beach at Whihala Beach is being operated by the Whiting Parks and Recreation Department.  All inquiries should be directed to them at 219-659-0860.

The beach at Lake Etta is open on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Parking fees are charged.  The Lake Etta water slides are no longer open.

CAMPING
 CAMPING IS OFFERED AT STONEY RUN COUNTY PARK FOR GROUPS ONLY.  Primitive facilities.  No hook-ups. The fee is $50 plus tax.  Firewood is $10 plus tax.

Ball Fields at Lemon Lake
 2011 BALL FIELDS RESERVATIONS AT LEMON LAKE COUNTY PARK 
Game condition softball fields $30 per field per day for tournament or private reservation (excludes league play).
Practice conditions $15 per field for two hours.

BEER PERMITS
$100 plus bonding or insurance. Payment required prior to event and issuance of permit. All state requirements must be adhered to. Permission of Park Board required.   Bonding or insurance must also be provided.

 DOGS 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 beaches at Whihala or Lake Etta, or at any of the special events held in the Lake County Parks.

Dogwood Run at Lemon Lake -- Annual fee: $70 Lake County resident; $90 out-of-county; $60 Lake County senior (over 60); $75 out-of-county senior (over 60).  All rates include parking pass. Fees are for the first dog with $5 for each additional dog. Daily trial run fee: $10 per dog (this is a one time fee charged to those without an annual pooch pass who want to try out the run.  This fee may be applied toward the annual pooch pass).  For rules and additional information click here Dogwood Run

HORSE RIDING
 Horse Riding is permitted at Stoney Run on the perimeter trail.  The trail is one mile.  Horses are not allowed on the grass/turf.  Deep River on the north side of the park (not the historic area).  Buckley Homestead in the back 80 on non-special event weekends, and at the Grand Kankakee Marsh on the levees except during hunting season. 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.

Hike, Bike and Walking Trails

Where can you go take a hike or just enjoy a quiet stroll?   
 There are twelve parks in the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department and two hike/bike trails scattered from Lake Michigan to the Kankakee River .  All totaled, there are more than 100 miles of trails in the County Parks system.  We invite you to go to a park near you and step toward better health.  The following is a description of the trails located at each of our parks. GATE FEES APPLY WHEN GATEKEEPER IS ON DUTY.  

LOOKING FOR HIKE/BIKE TRAIL MAPS?  
Check the web at http://www.nirpc.org and click on link for transportation at the top, then on the non motorized link for hike/bike maps of the region.

Trails within the Lake County Parks are listed here.  

  • Buckley Homestead:  There are 2.2 miles of trails in total at Buckley Homestead.  A ¾ mile loop, bark chip trail, connects the visitor center, schoolhouse, and barn, with slight terrain, some hills and woods.  There is an additional 1.4 mile trail around the perimeter of the back 80 acres, hilly, with some woods.
  • Cedar Creek Golf Course:  Cedar Creek features an executive 9 hole course with approximately 1 mile of cart trails. Pull a cart for enjoyable exercise.
  • Deep River: Deep River has a majority of the county park system’s wooded trails.  Around Woods’ Historic Mill there is a scenic brick paved path to the gazebo and out to Grinder Field.  North, beyond the Old Lincoln Hwy. parking area, you will find the green trailhead and a .4 mile loop. It's .2 miles to the fork.  From the fork to the County Line Road trailhead is 1 mile.  From the fork to the yellow trail detour is .1 miles.  The yellow trail detour is .2 miles. From the fork to the Sulky track trailhead is 1.5 miles. In total there is 2.3 miles of wooded, hilly trails along the river north of Wood’s Historic Grist Mill to the old sulky track.  Big Maple Lake area has 2.6 miles of mixed use horse/pedestrian trails.
  • Erie Lackawanna Trail:  About 1.6 miles of the 12 mile asphalt trail are maintained by the Lake County Parks.
  • Gibson Woods:  About 2.8 miles of wooded trail, flat terrain along the dune and swale topography of the nature preserve. Due to state dedication as a nature preserve, dogs or bicycles are not allowed.
  • Grand Kankakee Marsh:  29 miles of flat trails on levees that dissect and connect the Grand Kankakee Marsh.  Woods, river and wetland abound in this birding haven.
  • Lake Etta:  About 1 mile of wooded and waterfront trails, flat terrain.
  • Lemon Lake:  One mile paved trail around lake and woods - some hills.  More than 5 miles of primitive trails in hilly wooded terrain.
  • Oak Ridge Prairie:  About 5 miles of trails in flat terrain through woods and prairie.
  • Oak Savannah Trail:  8 miles of wooded asphalt trail from Griffith to Porter County.
  • Stoney Run:  About 8 miles of trails, flat and hilly, mostly wooded terrain.
  • Three Rivers:  A 1 & 1/4 mile asphalt trail follows the lake edge with flat terrain. The east side of the trail is wooded.
  • Turkey Creek Golf Course:  Golf with a pull cart and walk the course (during off peak times)
  • Whihala Beach:  Whihala has a paved beach front trail which follows Lake Michigan along the length of the park approximately 2/3 of a mile.

The Oak Savannah Trail (OST) currently encompasses 8.25 miles from Oak Ridge Prairie County Park to the Prairie Duneland Trail at the Lake/Porter County Line Road in Portage with a break in Hobart. Trail users will be able to access the western segment of the trail from the trail head near the parking lot at Oak Ridge Prairie. This segment runs 6.25 miles to Wisconsin Street in Hobart. The eastern segment, following the Hobart break, may be accessed from a gravel parking lot at the northeast corner of Cleveland Street and State Road 51 in Hobart. This segment is 1.25 miles in length and will take users from the Cleveland/51 intersection to the Prairie Duneland Trail.

Citizens should exercise extreme caution as they use the OST because several at-grade road crossing’s have to be taken into consideration. Main, Chase, Harrison, Madison, Delaware, Georgia, Liverpool, and Union Streets all have moderate to heavy vehicular traffic that affects the OST. .

Trail users will enjoy the OST as it takes them on a journey through savannahs, remnant prairies, wetlands, lakes, parks, and residential neighborhoods.

The Lake County Parks and the City of Hobart are working together to close the gap between Wisconsin Street in Hobart and the Cleveland/51 intersection in the next few years. Any questions regarding this gap should be directed to the Hobart Parks Department.  

CHARGE CARDS ACCEPTED AT THE CORPORATE OFFICE, DEEP RIVER WATERPARK, AND BELLABOO'S PLAY AND DISCOVERY CENTER

Charge your purchases, season passes, reservation fees, and Deep River Waterpark and Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center at Three Rivers County Park admission on your Visa, Discover, or MasterCard. 

When reserving a shelter at any Lake County Parks, reserving the Wedding Gazebo at Deep River, or reserving a spot in a workshop or fee program, you may make your reservation AND charge your rental or fee at the same time by calling the numbers listed below.

Purchases of souvenirs and gifts may be made with a charge card in the Visitor Center Gift Shop at Deep River County Park historic area.  Resort, beachwear, and accessories may be charged in the U.S. 30 Surf shop in Deep River Waterpark during open hours.

DEEP RIVER WATERPARK

DEEP RIVER WATERPARK 2011 Season
DAILY RATES
Regular Admission
early season 19.95
prime time 22.95
end of season 15.95
Under 46"
early season 11.95
prime time 13.95
end of season 11.95
12 months and under FREE
Senior Citizen (over 60)
early season 13.95
prime time 16.95
end of season 12.95
In-state discount
early season 2.00
prime time 2.00
end of season 0.00
After 2 p.m.
Regular admission
early season 15.95
prime time 19.95
end of season 13.95
Under 46"
early season 9.95
prime time 11.95
end of season 8.95
12 months and under FREE
Senior Citizen (over 60)
early season 11.95
prime time 14.95
end of season 10.95
In-state discount
early season 2.00
prime time 2.00
end of season 0.00
Tubin' Tuesdays
Regular admission 12.00
Under 46" and Senior Citizens (over 60) 8.00
No in-state discount 0.00
DEEP RIVER WATERPARK - GROUP RATES
Day Group
Groups are a minimum of 15 paid individuals
Early season discount; over 46" 9.95
Early season discount; under 46" 7.95
Second early season discount; over 46" 14.95
Second early season discount; under 46" 8.95
Regular season price; over 46" 15.95
Regular season price; under 46" 9.95
Pre-purchased, over 46" 16.95, 15.95 for June only
Pre-purchased, under 46" 9.95, 8.95 for June only
Hotel/Campground over 46" 15.95
Hotel/Campground under 46" 9.95
Super Saver regular (partial operations end of season) 13.95
Super Saver under 46" (partial operations end of season) 8.95
Private Parties: 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Hourly, June & non prime time 1495.00
Hourly, Prime time less than 500. Prime Time is Friday, Saturday and Sunday in July & August 1795.00
per person 501 to 750 4.25
per person 751 to 1500 3.75
per person 1501 and up 3.25
 Daytime Private Parties: weekends, post season
3 hour time blocks 4750.00
additional hour 900.00
per person over 500 3.00
DEEP RIVER WATERPARK - SEASON PASSES
Early season discount; November 15, 2010 through February 28, 2011
first pass, new pass holder 110.00
additional pass, new pass holder 85.00
first pass, 2010 pass holder 90.00
additional pass, 2010 pass holder 70.00
Second discount period; March 1, 2011 through May 26, 2011
first pass, new pass holder 120.00
additional pass, new pass holder 95.00
first pass, 2010 pass holder 100.00
additional pass, 2010 pass holder 80.00
Regular price; May 27, 2011 through end of season
first pass, new pass holder 160.00
additional pass, new pass holder 110.00
first pass, 2010 pass holder 125.00
additional pass, 2010 pass holder 95.00

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.

* Additional family pass members are limited to six after the initial purchase.

For group rates, corporation buyouts, birthday parties, catering, day group rates, or other information, call the Waterpark at 219-947-7850 or click here Deep River Waterpark

CLICK BUTTON FOR DEEP RIVER WATERPARK ICE SKATING PLAZA

ALL FEES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

Banquet on the Green at Turkey Creek Golf Course

  • Turkey Creek Banquet Facility and full service bar.

  • Banquet room overlooking the golf course with seating up to 230.  Dance floor and adjoining bar.  Wonderful for weddings and other activities.  Beautiful setting, classy decoration, and great food.

  • Phone: 219-887-3550 for banquet information.

Banquet Hall and Wedding Pergola at Lake Etta

  • A wonderful place for weddings, parties, banquets, business meetings and more.  Bar available.  Accommodates up to 200.

  • Overlooking the lake with a adjoining patio leading to the wedding pergola. It's the perfect place to celebrate. 

  • Call 219-949-6533 for booking and menu information.  

  • Fax: 219-949-6523.

 

For information about all of the twelve Lake County Parks, call 219-769-PARK (7275)

Lake County Parks and Recreation Department Corporate Office
8411 East Lincoln Highway, Crown Point, In 46307  ..... just west of Deep River Waterpark

Office hours are M-F    8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Updated February 28, 2011