Those days have faded into the past. Companies found such facilities too expensive to maintain when the economy turned sour and any extra money had to be funneled back into the company coffers to keep the business going. Getting rid of recreational parks might have been bad news to employees, but in some cases it was good news for the public.
Armco Park, near Lebanon, was developed into a first-class facility for fishing, golf, hiking and picnicking. After AK Steel took over, the park was closed and eventually sold to a group in Warren County in 2008 for $4.5 million.
The county commissioners, not wanting to see the beautiful park broken into lots by some developer, put together a grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, money from the park district, township and nearby Otterbein Retirement Community to purchase the 311-acre park.
“There has been some talk about changing the name,” said Jim Frank, facility manager, “but to so many people, especially around Middletown, this will always be known as Armco Park. I don’t see it changing in the near future.”
In addition to the existing facilities, the park added many more, including a 200-person-capacity pavilion for weddings and receptions. There are softball games held every weekend, taking advantage of the four-diamond complex. Not only does the park offer its own executive-length golf course, but it borders Shaker Run Golf Course.
The lake, which covers 110 acres and is 60 feet deep in spots, has most species of fish found in Ohio. It features catch-and-release largemouth bass and plenty of panfish, carp and catfish.
You don’t need an Ohio fishing license to fish at Warren County Armco Park, but you do need to buy a daily permit at the boathouse. You can launch your own boat or rent one at the dock.
Boats for rent include john boats (and electric motors), paddle boats, row boats, kayaks and canoes. Rentals and fees go toward refurbishing facilities and boats.
“I just enjoy coming out to the lake,” said area resident John Parks. “It’s a real nice little lake.”
Outdoors columnist Jim Morris can be reached through his website at www.examiner.com/outdoor-recreation-in-dayton/jim-morris or by email at sports@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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