A few weeks ago Erie County concluded the spring 2015 free Walk in County Parks series at Chestnut Ridge Park. Those who attended were able to learn more about this great park and enjoy a guided tour along the trails.

The county has more than 20 parks in the parks system, including beaches and golf courses. At Chestnut Ridge, one of the most popular winter parks, you can find just as much to do in the summer. The park is home to the eternal flame, which can be accessed by hiking but be sure to follow the map and stay on the trails. Appropriate footwear is strongly encouraged and keep a safe distance from the edge of the ravine.

There are additional hiking trails, as well as paths for walking, jogging and bicycling. There are playgrounds in the park, as well as picnic sites. You can find 12 tennis courts free to use, as well as a disc golf course. It was a few years back that the county partnered with Niagara Region Disc Golf to put courses in Chestnut Ridge, Como Lake, Ellicott Creek and Emery parks. You can learn more at www.nrdg.org. The disc golf courses are free to use, please bring your own discs.

The county is offering swimming at Bennett Beach in Angola this summer, when conditions allow. Please note that the water will close without warning due to environmental factors that are beyond the county’s control. Experts are constantly monitoring the water to ensure it is safe for residents. Notifications are posted on the county’s website, Twitter and Facebook. Please check before you head to the beach. I am hopeful we have a lot of great days to enjoy the beach as it is a beautiful spot. The beach is located at 8276 Old Lake Shore Road. Access and parking is free.

The county also has camping at Sprague Brook Park, located on the border of my district at 9674 Foote Road in Glenwood. Camping, shelter and building reservations can be made by calling 858-8355 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Visit the county’s website to submit a camping request electronically. Whether you are enjoying a camping vacation or visit Sprague Brook just for the day, the park has a lot to offer including baseball, softball, tennis, bicycling, fishing, hiking trails, mountain bicycling trails, picnic areas and more. 

Recently the Legislature approved a significant financial investment into the parks system to improve the services provided to county residents and families. As the owners of these parks, I believe taxpayers deserve the best parks that we can provide. 

For complete information about the county’s parks, please visit www.erie.gov/parks. Please make sure you visit any or all the county’s parks this summer, they each are unique and worth the trip.

If you have a question or concern about a county matter, please call or email my office at 858-8850 or john.mills@erie.gov.