Lake County Parks and Recreation oversees several of the most important natural and historic sites in Lake County, including Gibson Woods Nature Preserve in Hammond, Deep River County Park in Hobart, and Stoney Run County Park in Hebron. Each park offers a unique environment and contributes to the physical, mental, and emotional wellness of its visitors.
Emily Trisler, the communications director for Lake County Parks and Recreation, emphasizes that the parks serve as inviting spaces for holistic health improvement. “It’s essential for people to have somewhere to retreat when life feels overwhelming,” Trisler said. “Our parks are open to all, allowing individuals to relax and embrace their natural selves without any pressure. A simple 10-minute walk on our trails can significantly enhance mental, physical, and emotional health.”
Most parks managed by Lake County Parks and Recreation are accessible year-round and provide a range of seasonal activities. During winter, facilities like Stoney Run County Park and Oak Ridge Prairie offer ski rentals. The biking and hiking paths remain clear of snow, enabling visitors to stay active even in colder weather. Trisler points out that there are numerous ways for people to exercise in these parks, whether they prefer a strenuous mountain bike ride or a leisurely forest stroll.
“Lake County Parks and Recreation offers diverse options for those looking to get some exercise,” Trisler explained. “With several dog parks, excellent golf courses, and numerous hiking trails, visitors are sure to get active. Deep River Water Park also features challenging stairs for a workout! Experiences in our parks can cater to any preference; there’s no need to be an experienced hiker with specialized gear. The adaptability of our parks, which cater to everyone, is one of our major assets.”
Trisler herself has participated in community events held at Lake County parks, such as the annual Fall Fest at Buckley Homestead County Park every October. She enjoys reconnecting with neighbors and family during these occasions and has observed how such social interactions among park visitors positively impact mental health.
“Isolation can severely harm one’s mental well-being,” Trisler noted. “While connecting with familiar individuals is vital, interaction with new faces is equally essential. I’ve witnessed park visitors bond over shared interests during art programs, biking trails, or vintage baseball games, leading to friendships. These organic connections are crucial for maintaining mental health, and our parks provide ample opportunities for such interactions.”
Trisler believes that the encounters with nature at Lake County parks greatly enhance visitors’ emotional health. “Spending time outdoors encourages reflection on the world and our role within it,” she stated. “Simply appreciating an ancient tree can shift your perspective and promote emotional growth. Engaging with nature reminds us that as part of the Lake County community, we have a duty to care for our environment, helping us to focus on something larger than ourselves.”
For those interested in exploring Lake County Parks, here are some locations along with their addresses:
Buckley Homestead County Park: 3606 Belshaw Road, Lowell, IN 46356
Deep River County Park: 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart, IN 46342
Deep River Water Park: 9001 East Lincoln Highway, Crown Point, IN 46307
Gibson Woods Nature Preserve: 6201 Parrish Avenue, Hammond, IN 46323
Grand Kankakee Marsh County Park: 21690 Range Line Road, Hebron, IN 46341
Lake Etta County Park: 4801 West 29th Avenue, Gary, IN 46406
Lemon Lake County Park: 6322 West 133rd Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307
Stoney Run County Park: 9230 East 142nd Avenue, Hebron, IN 46341
Three Rivers County Park: 2800 Colorado Street, Lake Station, IN 46405
Turkey Creek Golf Course: 6400 Harrison Street, Merrillville, IN 46410
Oak Ridge Prairie: 301 South Colfax Street, Griffith, IN 46319
For more information about Lake County Parks and Recreation’s offerings and upcoming events, visit lakecountyparks.com.