The City of Storm Lake is beginning its seasonal transition to winter, with several outdoor facilities scheduled to close or change operations in the coming weeks.
The parks department has announced the following seasonal dates and changes:
Campground: The Northside Campground will close Oct. 16. On the Southside, rows 1 through 5 will remain open through Nov. 15. After Nov. 15, only rows 3 and 5 will remain open for winter use. Restrooms and laundry facilities will close Nov. 15 to protect pipes from freezing.
Golf course: Oct. 31 will be the final day for open golf. The clubhouse will remain available for events.
Park restrooms: Non-heated restrooms will close Nov. 1, or earlier if temperatures become too cold. Heated restrooms, including those at the Chautauqua Park shelterhouse and Frank Starr Park, will remain open through the winter.
The city plans to install heating in the new Sunrise Park family restroom so it can remain open during the winter. The Scout Park restroom will also be open during the winter once lift station construction in the area is completed.
Sports courts: Basketball courts and the mini-pitch soccer facility will remain open whenever weather conditions allow. Pickleball and tennis nets will remain in place until snow is in the forecast.
The heated Chautauqua Park shelter house will remain available for rentals and events throughout the winter.
Other recreational opportunities will continue after the seasonal closures. The Lake Trail will be cleared during the winter for walkers, runners and bicyclists, while parks and playgrounds will remain available for use.
A cross-country ski course will also be available at the golf course when snow conditions permit. The city also notes that ice fishing and other winter recreation remain available around Storm Lake.
