McNeely Lake Park

Park Overview

McNeely Lake Park is one of the largest parks in the Louisville Metro Parks system, spanning 746 acres in Louisville, Kentucky. The centerpiece of the park is a scenic 46-acre lake that provides ample opportunities for fishing and boating activities. The park's natural beauty, with its calm waters surrounded by lush greenery, creates a peaceful retreat within the city.

Historical Background

The park was established in the early 1950s when four local families donated farmland to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife for the purpose of creating a recreational lake.

The lake was named after Louis P. McNeely, a local sports editor for the Louisville Times and avid outdoorsman, who died in a car accident in 1945. It was officially opened in 1955, with Alice Bostic, Louis P. McNeely's widow, casting the first line into the water during the dedication ceremony.

Initially a haven for anglers, the park expanded its offerings in the 1970s when the J. Graham Brown Foundation donated one million dollars to transform it into one of the largest full-service parks in the metro area.

Recreational Activities

McNeely Lake Park offers a diverse range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking and horseback riding on the park's trail system, which winds through various habitats including dense underbrush, pioneer forest, and open glades.

Fishing is a popular activity, with many anglers trying their luck from the shoreline, docks, or small boats. The lake is home to various fish species, including bass. A boat ramp and docks provide easy access for small fishing boats, kayaks, and canoes, with a dedicated kayak/canoe launch making the water accessible to everyone.

The park also features an airfield for remote-controlled planes, operated by the Louisville Remote Control Club, providing a unique attraction for hobbyists and spectators alike.

Facilities and Amenities

The park offers multiple playgrounds throughout the property, with different equipment suitable for various age groups. These play areas are typically well-maintained and include swings, slides, climbing structures, and more.

Numerous picnic areas with tables and grilling stations are scattered throughout the park, making it ideal for family gatherings and cookouts. Several gazebos provide shaded areas for larger groups.

Active visitors can take advantage of the basketball courts and tennis courts for sports activities. Restroom facilities are available, though their condition can vary.

Wildlife and Nature

The park is home to diverse wildlife, particularly birds and turtles that can often be seen basking in the sun. A unique feature of the park is a managed cat colony, protected and cared for by Louisville Metro and Alley Cat Advocates, where all cats are vaccinated and spayed/neutered.

Points of Interest

In addition to its natural features, the park includes several historical and commemorative elements. A Korean War Memorial, built by Muldoon Memorial with a seal designed by Stacy Freibert, was dedicated on November 7, 1993, adding a place of reflection and remembrance to the park's landscape.

Future Development

As part of ongoing development efforts, McNeely Lake Park is slated to be incorporated into the Louisville Loop Project, which aims to connect it with other parks in the area, further enhancing its accessibility and integration into the broader Louisville parks system.