State Parks Summer Tour (Part 2)

I continued exploring my local parks throughout August. On the first of the month, after consulting the neighboring Darien Lake Performing Arts Center's calendar and finding it empty (fewer campers, I figured), I opted for Darien Lakes State Park, which is more notable for its small adjacent-lake beach than for any spectacular sights and hiking trails. But its charms are there nonetheless. 

Darien Lakes State Park

Even with a map of the small park and its campgrounds, it wasn't easy to locate the hiking trails. In fact, the one I found was a mud pit unsuited for anyone not wearing knee-high waders. So I walked mostly in a loop from the beach to the main trail around the lake and around the golf course, which was a scenic but confusing maze. When I was worn out from walking, I found welcome refuge in the shade with a biography of Harper Lee (author of To Kill a Mockingbird) and this view of the lake.  

 

My next park far exceeded my expectations. I drove into East Aurora, stopping at Vidler's famous general store, of course, along the way (how could you not?) to browse its considerable wares for a hot minute before continuing on empty handed because Christmas shopping in August is just not something I'm capable of doing. 

Knox Farm State Park

My ultimate destination was Knox Farm State Park, which is most well-known locally for its enclosed designated dog-walking area (and indeed I saw more canines that day than I'd ever seen before in one place at one time, romping and frolicking within their special spot). 

For me, this park is a hidden jewel in Erie County (not far from Buffalo), one with abundant treasures (a library in the woods, a greenhouse, a large pond, a landscaped garden, something for everyone - even dogs) that I discovered as I walked the beautiful trails, though at first appearance, when driving into the parking lot, it appears to be just a simple country farm.  

Knox Farm is the anti-state park, with no admission fee charged, no campers, no gift shops or stores, just undisturbed nature and old buildings in all their unspoiled virtue. I spent a virtually perfect Thursday afternoon on its grounds, reveling in its serenity and splendor. This park, more than any other local one I visited this summer, is one I have every intention of returning to again and again.