CHENEY - Visitors to Cheney State Park will find several changes on their first visit in 2005. Park staff have been evaluating park usage, shoreline changes, and recreational needs and have opted to make some adjustments in several areas.

The Giefer Creek Day Use Area has been expanded to include the former Giefer Creek Campground. This area will have a swim beach and will provide day-only users with a site including a table and fire ring for their picnicking and daily recreational activities. This area will be closed after sunset.

The swim beach at Wichita Point has been removed so that the area can accommodate personal watercraft. This area will now provide a day-use area with a nearby boat ramp designed for personal watercraft users.

A group campground in the Spring Creek Area is nearly finished and includes 20 utility sites, a large shelter house, and restroom facilities. This area can be reserved for groups such as family reunions, church groups, or camping clubs. When this area is not reserved, it will be open for general public use.

Changes have been made in prime site areas and reservation sites for 2005. Prime sites have been designated at selected areas in Wichita Point and M & M Point campgrounds. Prime site fees are $2 extra per day. Campsites available for reservations have been expanded to 20 sites on Heimerman Point and 10 sites in the North Loop Campground. A $10 reservation fee applies.

Park staff have plans for added improvements at Cheney State Park. Work will begin in the winter on a 5.5-mile hike/bike trail. An effort is also underway to find private funding to match a potential federal grant for playgrounds.

Park management is always open to new ideas from the public, so feel free to contact the park office by email or phone (316) 542-3664.