State Parks Review

Bobbie Bicknell Coray, Reporter

Rich Civic Times

RANDOLPH, Utah. November 6, 2017.  Richard Droesbeck, Utah State Parks, reported on the 2017 State Parks Review.  In 2017, the  division estimated there were over 298,000 visitors this year and $1.2 million in revenue.  

However Droesbeck thinks the number of visitors is closer to 450,000. “Every year we have more and more people, seventeen nights had overflowing campsites.  Last year we had ten and the year before, four.   Parking was at capacity at the marina for twelve days, and people were being turned away.  There was a profit of $758,000 this year, at least $71,000 ahead of last year. Our concessionaire made $1.5 million, making it the best year ever,” said Droesbeck.

Last year was the 8th annual Cisco Disco which was held the last Saturday in January.  The 7th annual Swim Across the Lake was held, as were mile swims near the marina.  This year’s Raspberry Days Boat Light Parade had twenty two boats.   There were twenty four special use permits issued for large groups.  There were several minor search and rescue efforts and more boating accidents but most were minor.  There was one fatality in South Eden Canyon and one ATV fatality in Franklin Basin.  Utah State Parks conducted water rescue training.

Projects completed included the Rendezvous Pavilion, interior of entry station, fencing, marina decking refinished, enlargement of long term rental parking, and a new fish cleaning station.  The east side was paved to Cisco Beach.  They used old pilings for North Eden Campground.  They are in the middle of getting a launch ramp on East Eden which would be solar powered and will have two motor access project first point launch pad.  They want access trails to campsites and are looking for funds. 

Droesbeck said there was a need for a full time maintenance person at the park because the facilities are aging. He also needs a full time office manager/accountant. 

Parking capacity at marina is still a problem and the marina needs a restroom facility at top of the launch ramp.  Rendezvous needs more parking and more restrooms.  He is getting a quote on how much it would be to renovate public campground which would make more campsites.  They would like water and sewer into the east side campsites and more camping facilities at Rainbow Point.  The southwest property gun range is proposed but there may be no funding. If funded they would like to start it next spring.