by Carrie Moritz, Gazette
Palisades State Park has a hidden gem for residents, and it’s not among the beautiful granite outcroppings. The Palisades State Park Lodge opened just over a decade ago to the public, and has flown under the radar since.
The lodge, which is a converted old farmhouse, can be rented for groups of 6-12 people. It has four bedrooms on three floors, two large bathrooms, a fully-stocked kitchen, and a deck with a view. It has been used in the past for weddings, graduation parties, and family reunions. It can be rented for $280 per night. A 2-night minimum is required.
“You can get the family together for the weekend, and know that the kids won’t be running off to school events,” said Karla Lofswold, Camp Host, at an open house that was held this past Sunday and Monday.
“You’re all together playing games, it’s great fun,” added her husband, Darrell. “[You get] some of that together time.”
The Lofswold’s note that between the cost savings as compared to a block of hotel rooms and being able to bring and cook one’s own food, it’s a steal.
It can be rented up to a year in advance, and Park Director Luke Dreckman encourages residents of Garretson to take advantage of it. Christmas and Thanksgiving are already taken for 2020, but they would love to see it utilized more between October and April.
Both Karla and Darrell Lofswold have spent the summer volunteering at Palisades State Park as camp hosts. These volunteer positions are in high demand by campgrounds, as they are relied on for lots of small jobs around the park. For instance, Karla had spent some time cleaning the stove at the lodge a few days ago.
“There’s only three full-time positions in the park,” said Park Ranger Rob Reuland, “so we rely on them a lot.” The Lofswold’s were joined by one other couple as camp hosts this summer.
“They’re very valuable,” said Dreckman. He said there is more demand for hosts than there is supply, because there is work involved and it is a time commitment. However, hosts are rewarded with a free stay at the campground for the summer.
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