News

LMSP celebrates 75 years

By Tyler Ohmann

06/12/2012

What began as an FDR ‘New Deal’ program project, 75 years later has become a community staple to Lake Metigoshe.

Lake Metigoshe State Park celebrated its 75th year of existence this past weekend with several events for the park-goers, campers, staff and visitors.

"I think it’s important to recognize the stay that the park has had, when you look at 75 years, it started with a single building on just a tiny piece of property," said Park Manager Larry Hagen. "Then the park has grown, land and infrastructure has gotten bigger, and what was here has been improved."

"As the years go on, having a 75th it lets you point out those things, brag about those things," Hagen added.

LMSP was originally opened in 1937 with a single building and a few acres of property. It has since expanded to more than 1,500 acres with more than 30 camp sights and lots of scenic trails.

The original building, the Dining Hall, still stands and is one of the main buildings at the park facilities.

Hagen, who has been the park manager at LMSP for the past 20 years, said that the Bottineau and Lake Metigoshe area has been great for the development of LMSP.

"I would like to think that it is very important, I know for years our partnership with college and the parks and recreation program and the wildlife programs are huge," Hagen said. "Bottineau has been a great community, so I think that it’s nice to have that connection with a community, even though we’re not right next door, we’re awfully close."

Events celebrated with the community included: Dakota Explorers activities with the kids, historical trivia, guided hikes and the Highway 43 band played a concert. However, mother nature tried to ruin the celebration with the big storm that rolled through Saturday morning, though Hagen said it didn’t really cause damage or dampen spirits.

"The weather kind of kicked us in the teeth this morning, but the people that are here, we’re about three quarters full, they all fared it out and there was no damage," Hagen said. "The kids are all running around and having a good time, so we’re doing good with that."

Hagen said the celebration drew a good-sized crowd, which pleased the park staff, and made for a good time.

"The numbers are pretty typical of this type of celebration, and we’re pleased with that," Hagen said. "People are coming out and camping and visiting with people in the area, so I think it’s a good time."

After a down year last year due in part to flooding and poor weather, Hagen said that the park has rebounded this year thus far.

"Our numbers are a little bit above last year," Hagen said. "A lot of our users are from the Minot area, and last year they were living in their campers in their front yard. So, our numbers are up a bit, and the users have been respectful, and our staff has said it is good to see a lot of these people back."

The attitude and demeanor of visitors has improved as well according to Hagen.

"There are a lot more smiles, and a lot more relaxed atmosphere, last year there was a lot of tension," Hagen said. "We notice that, and I think this year, is going to be a good year."

Anyone wishing to get more information on LMSP is encouraged to stop by the office or visit www.parkrec.nd.gov/parks/lmsp or call (701) 263-4651.