Lemsford Park was once a popular summer destination

By Joan Janzen

Lemsford Park was once a popular summer destination. Thirty years ago, there was something for everyone to enjoy at the park. The Olympic size pool was always busy on hot summer days and during swimming lessons every July. It was a popular location for slo-pitch tournaments, where teams from all over west central Saskatchewan participated on the park’s three ball diamonds.

Thirty years ago, the Olympic size pool at Lemsford Park was a popular place to cool off on a hot summer day. Photo (West Central Crossroads, Aug. 4, 1993)

Two playgrounds, trampolines, horseshoe pits, a volleyball court and an 18-hole mini golf course provided first rate entertainment value. Meanwhile the hall served as a craft centre, bingo hall and dance floor. Those who were inclined could cast their rods in the river for a catch, go for a hike in the nearby river hills and check out the wildlife, birds and flowers. Or maybe even find a Saskatoon or chokecherry bush and go berry picking.

Tents and campers filled the fifty serviced campsites, and regular occupants inhabited 19 cabins at the park. It was always a popular site to host family reunions and church picnics, and treats were available at the park’s concession stand.

According to an article written in the Aug. 4, 1993 issue of West Central Crossroads, plans for the Lemsford Ferry Regional Park began in the early 1960s when a few residents in the RM of Clinworth decided there was a need for a recreational area.

By 1968 plans had been drawn up, a certificate of title issued and numerous municipalities and towns entered into a five-year capital agreement to finance the project. Then the hard work of surveying, digging and building began.