By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

Of all the public boat accesses and adjoining public beaches in Otter Tail County, Eagle lake Park south of Battle Lake is near the top of the list in popularity. 

A picnic area with shelter high atop the hill, boat access, playground equipment and swimming beach with nearby changing rooms makes a visit to this area well worthwhile.

It’s a great place to come and relax, and the park is well kept with some nice trees for shade.

Visitors can get to Eagle Lake Park by driving south from Battle Lake on Highway 78, or driving north on Highway 78 from Ashby. Turning east on South Eagle Lake Road, starting at the southwest section of the lake, will get you to the park.

You never lose out coming here when it’s hot, somewhat cool or even when there are a few raindrops. With the picnic shelter you can’t go wrong. And there’s plenty of room to park vehicles.

After leaving Eagle Lake Park you can extend your recreation for the day by driving four miles to Inspiration Peak State Park. To get there you head south one mile from Eagle Lake on Highway 78 and then head east for three miles along Highway 38.

The vista at Inspiration Peak was well-known to author Sinclair Lewis. From the prairie-covered crest of the hill, he wrote, “There’s to be seen a glorious 20-mile circle of some 50 lakes scattered among fields and pastures, like sequins fallen on an old paisley shawl.”

The quarter-mile hike to the top of Inspiration Peak can be a workout, but there are several benches along the way if you want to rest. The peak offers a captivating view almost any time of the year.

Visitors can also go to Inspiration Peak first, and then take a dip in Eagle Lake to cool off if it’s a really hot day. Visitors can’t beat this time of year here in Otter Tail County.