Kansas has a new state park. Governor Kelly signed a bill establishing Lehigh Portland State Park in Allen County, saying Iola should be proud to be the newest location for a state park, creating another space for families to spend time together in nature. Iola Industries, a local group of business development organizers, gifted the property, which includes walking and biking trails, a 138-acre lake, and fishing along Elm Creek. Lehigh Portland is one of the most visited spots for birding in Southeast Kansas, recording about 180 different species of birds.
Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Secretary, Brad Loveless, says he knows the property will be an instant hit with park goers, and that park staff plans for development will make it even more inviting in the near future. The addition of this park increases the number of Kansas State Parks to 29. If you haven’t been there, go check it out soon, particularly if you like seeing an incredible variety of birds.
