Just a few short years ago a controversial development was slated for the old Woods Lake Resort property on Woodsdale Road. The project stalled when the recession hit and the former RV park sat vacant for some time. Now the property is under new ownership and is set to return to it’s former glory as an oasis for road-wearied campers.
After considerable work to clean up the property, Woods Lake Resort welcomed it’s first campers of the season over the long weekend.
“We have some groups of friends who heard we were going to be opening again and asked if they could come down for the weekend so we said sure. We’re still working to get the site completely up and running and we’re hoping to be able to have 300 to 400 campers on the site at any given time once we’re finished,” said Glenn Wurtele, who along with Lynne Berard manages the resort.
Since 2005 when the original owners closed the resort the grounds had become over run with thick foliage, there had been damage caused by flooding from Middle Vernon Creek, and there was some damage caused by ice to the marina docks. Wurtele says their team has been working since February to get the site ready for the season.
“One of the biggest issues for us has been dealing with changes in building codes. We’ve had to upgrade and replace a lot of the electrical systems, and water and sewer infrastructure,” said Wurtele.
Much of the work is still in progress. Campers over the weekend were without power and only about 40 per cent of the sites are open. Campers knew about the minor inconveniences ahead of time but still wanted to come anyway. Wurtele says everyone he talked to were just happy to have a nice shady spot on the lake to spend the weekend.
Activities at Wood Lake Resort include swimming, a playground, sunbathing, and kayak and standup paddleboard rentals. Seca Marine is also teaming up with the resort to offer boat rentals and water sports lessons.
Of course the rest of the amenities available in Lake Country are just a short walk or drive away as well.