Paddleboats Coming to Blackberry Farm

There’s a magical transformation that occurs whenever you get into a boat. The moment you push off from shore, everything changes.

A sense of calm prevails. In a matter of seconds, your world is one of peace and freedom. Water glistens all around, and the tranquil sounds of nature rule. Stress and anxiety have no place here. Ahh … time stands still.

Soon, that escape will be available where people visit to go back in time – Blackberry Farm. A fleet of four paddleboats has arrived, and it won’t be long until visitors can ply the waters of Lake Gregory and enjoy the splendor of Blackberry Farm from an on-the-water view.

“Lake Gregory is so placid and pretty; it’s the perfect body of water for these types of boats,” said facility supervisor Sandy Smith. “These will be very popular with families, and it’s a great way for visitors to relax and have fun.”

Resembling a rowboat, these “African Queen” boats are pedal-powered by two front passengers, with plenty of room behind for passengers to enjoy the ride. For as sturdy and stable as they are, these boats maneuver easily, combining comfort and safety.

They look cool, too, with a replica steam engine and sail mast providing a nostalgic image. Each boat also features a vinyl canopy to protect boaters from the searing summer sun that’s been a menacing fixture as of late.

There’s no extra charge to take one of these boats out – it’s all included as part of the daily admission, and free for season pass holders. The boats will be moored at a newly built dock adjacent to the boathouse/pavilion (think the boat version of a train depot) on the west shoreline of Lake Gregory.

Each boat holds four people (two adults, two children), with a 20-minute time limit – plenty of time for a picturesque tour around Lake Gregory.

The new boats and launch area are among the many exciting features taking shape as Blackberry Farm undergoes a makeover that will modernize the 43-year-old landmark while also maintaining its historic charm.

Just across the park from the boats, a new adventure playground is in the works. It’s currently being assembled off-site and is set for delivery in mid-August when it will be reassembled and unveiled for the public in September.

The customized play structure will feature an extensive network of climbing decks, slides, ropes and catwalk-style bridges connecting an array of playhouses on multiple levels. Not far from there, a new, 2,500-square-foot picnic shelter is just about complete, providing a fantastic venue for live entertainment. A new restroom building has been constructed near the performance shelter and is already open.

With so much happening so fast, a relaxing boat ride sounds really good right now, doesn’t it? Check the park district Facebook page and website for announcements on when the boats launch (pssst … it’s going to be soon).

Jeff Long is the public relations manager for the Fox Valley Park District. Contact him at jlong@fvpd.net

Fox Valley Park District
Upcoming Events

Thursday, July 5: Free Concert in the Park – Saturday June Band – at Montgomery Park, 7:30 to 9 p.m.
Friday, July 6: Hoedown on the Farm at Blackberry Farm, 6 to 8 p.m.
Saturday, July 14: Fishing Derby for Kids at Blackberry Farm, 8 to 10 a.m.

Sunday, July 15: Free Ice Cream Social at Blackberry Farm, 1 to 2 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday, July 14-15: Lifeguard Olympics at Splash Country Water Park and Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center.
Thursday, July 19: Free Concert in the Park – Jonathan Devin and New Country – at Montgomery Park, 7:30 to 9 p.m.