The Friends of Lake Darling partnered with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to develop plans and secure funding for a Day User Complex.  The complex has been developed at the beach and marina site within the Park.  The complex features a four seasons lodge, picnic shelter, restroom facilities, beach shower, playground and connecting walkways.

The ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday August 27, 2008.  Pictured are Wendel Guy, Jim Miller, Janet Miller, Karen Schafer, David Miller, Sandy Scott, Tom Basten, Elaine Pitt, Fay Vittetoe, Karen Edwards, Ron Scott, Mary Anson, Richard Leopold, Merrill Lucas, Dean Edwards, Bud Pitt, Jeff Hildebrand, Karen Dickinson, Don Kline and Lee Schafer.

 

 

Fund raising for the complex involved a unique combination of State of Iowa, local County (Jefferson & Washington) and city (Brighton & Washington) governments, Washington County Riverboat Foundation grants, Department of Natural Resources infrastructure funds, Jerry Robinson's matching funds grant and many local residents generous gifts.  In all, nearly 1 million dollars was raised in 2007 & 2008 to make the project a reality.

 

The 4,000 square foot lodge is designed to accommodate meetings, family reunions, wedding receptions, company events, environmental education and recreational events for schools and organizations.  The 3,000 square foot Great Hall designed with overhead exposed beams, special light fixtures and lots of windows for viewing the Parks outdoor scenery and Lake Darling.   It will seat 200 people and features an electric fireplace at the west end.  The kitchenette provides ample room for catering and the large restrooms can handle all occasions.  The main entrance on the south leads to a large hallway featuring the unique donor tree.  A patio on the east side adds a special attraction to the lodge and can accommodate 100 people in an open air setting.

 

The picnic shelter is located near the beach along the walkway from the lodge to the marina.  The shelter came as a kit and was put up by Friends volunteers and Parks staff.  It is set on a cement pad and provides shelter from the sun and rain. 

 

 

A combination restroom and changing area provides needed facilities for swimmers at the beach, hikers, picnicking and marina users.  The restroom is made of solid concrete and was shipped to the site as a two piece unit.  The two sides were set on the concrete pad with a crane and hooked up to the water and septic system.

 

The beach shower will provide a convenient way for swimmers to clean off the sand after a fun day at the beach.  The multi layer design allows a shower from head to toe.

 

 

The playground area provides an added feature that highlights the family oriented aspect of the entire Day User Complex.  The playground kit was assembled by Friends and Park staff in a day.  The playground equipment is designed for durability and lots of activity.