Indiana’s Summit Lake to Host Various Labor Day Activities

Two interpretive kayak tours, a classic rock concert and an evening of stargazing highlight Labor Day weekend events at Summit Lake State Park.

Friday evening features the inaugural Moonlight Paddle, a two-hour kayak trip through coves along the lake’s south side. Participants should meet at the South Ramp at 9:30 p.m. The tour starts at 10 p.m. Boaters need to bring their own boats and are required by law to have a life jacket, a DNR Lake Permit and a light visible for 250 feet (flashlights are okay).

The second kayak tour launches at 10 a.m. Sunday from the North Ramp and travels up “Beaver Creek,” an area known for wildlife and bird watching. The tour takes 3-3 ½ hours. Participants should bring bug spray and water and are encouraged to bring binoculars and cameras. Life jackets and DNR Lake Permits are required.

Lake Permits can be purchased at the front gate for $5. Rental boats are available for the Sunday tour. Rental arrangements must be made by 9 a.m.

Johnny Nevada and the Rockets will perform a concert in the campground on Saturday from 7-9 p.m.

Sunday night features stargazing with astronomers Steve and Debbie Russell. The event starts at 9 p.m. at the A campground. Visitors with their own telescopes are encouraged to bring them. Advice about telescope use will be given. Participants should consider bringing a jacket, bug spray and a lawn chair.

All programs are subject to cancellation in the event of bad weather.

There is no fee for the weekend’s events, but the standard park entrance fee of $5 per in-state vehicle and $7 per out-of-state vehicle applies. For more information, call (765) 766-5873.

Summit Lake State Park is at 5993 N. Messick Road, New Castle, 47362.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."