Hocking College removes inflatables and updates entry fees at Lake Snowden

For those who enjoy fishing, swimming and camping at local campground Lake Snowden, recent changes in policies may come as a surprise.

Located in Albany and operated and owned by Hocking College, Lake Snowden is used as a venue for events, such as the Polar Bear Plunge and Ohio Pawpaw Festival, as well as a campground and a site for programming at the college.

Lake Snowden offers many outdoor activities for those who come to set up camp or for just a day’s visit, one of them being swimming in the beach area.

For many years, inflatable toys were in the lake for visitors to enjoy, but many have noticed that upon opening this year’s swimming season, the inflatables have been removed.

Although unfortunate, Hocking College President Betty Young said the choice to eliminate them was practical. She said the decision to remove the inflatables was due to damage from wildlife.

“Hocking College operated an inflatable toys beach area for several years, and last year critters in the lake destroyed some of the inflatables,” said Young. “As a result, a decision was made not to reinvest in the inflatables this year.”

In addition to the removal of inflatables, the campground implemented a new charging policy. Previously guests were charged per person, but now fees are based on the number of vehicles entering the park. The charge is $6 per vehicle.

“The college receives revenue from camping and has been preparing to implement a per-car charge for entry into the park with annual passes available to those who use the park regularly,” explained Young. “By not charging per person, but rather by car, we hope to remain family-friendly in a safe environment.”

To enhance security and address concerns about illegal activity in both the on- and off-seasons, Lake Snowden has also introduced a new gate system.

“Safety and concern with illegal activity in the park, especially in the off-season, has led the college to plan for the gate system to secure the park better and make it safe for those who camp, ride horses, fish and otherwise use it,” added Young.