10/31/2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Inclusive Playground at Lake Malone State Park
POWDERLY, Ky – Playtime just got better! The Muhlenberg County Tourism Commission is excited to announce the much-anticipated addition of a new inclusive playground at Lake Malone State Park. The playground is a nature and music-themed play space that complements the beauty of the surrounding state park, creating a harmonious blend of natural landscape and creative play. This innovative playground, designed by Miracle Playgrounds of KY & TN, includes everyone’s favorite pieces, but also includes elements that provide sensory play, making it one of the first State Park playgrounds to include these inclusive pieces.
The innovative play space allows visitors to engage in an interactive music-making experience. The new 17’ tall play unit includes features such as: a variety of slides, a 3-bay arch swing set for multiple users, climber unit with orbs and a cyclone rope climber for adventurous play, giant sized nature-themed sculptures of a turtle, butterfly, and fish, which further enhance the playground’s connection to beautiful Lake Malone State Park. Musical instruments include Trio Bongos, Petal Drums, Cattail Chimes, Cavatina and Song Book. These play features, combined with the musical elements, create a playground that is not only fun but educational and foster sensory motor skill development.
The new addition is expected to increase tourism to Lake Malone State Park, making it a must-visit destination for school groups, family vacations, and daily recreation. The expanded and improved play area will encourage overnight stays and longer visits, enhancing the overall park experience for visitors.
“The playground is a transformative addition to the park, said Mary Kate Kordes, Chairman of Muhlenberg County Tourism Commission. “It offers a space where everyone can experience the joy of play, a welcoming environment that encourages creativity and sensory engagement for all abilities. We are excited to see everyone swinging, sliding, twirling, and making music on this new playground.”
The new playground is part of the continuing efforts to enhance the visitor experience at Lake Malone State Park.
The park is home to the beloved Big Twigs and Butterfly Mural introduced in 2021-2022 to attract visitors to Muhlenberg County.
The unveiling event took place on October 30, 2024, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and several special guest in attendance. Remarks from state and local officials, including; Secretary Lindy Casebier - Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet, State Representative Rebecca Raymer, Commissioner Russ Meyer – Department of Parks, Mark Kellen – Director of Parks, Darrin Benton – Muhlenberg County District 2 Magistrate. Special thanks are extended to State Representative Rebecca Raymer for her ongoing support and dedication to this project. Her contributions have been instrumental in making this playground a reality, and her continued advocacy for projects that enhance our community has been greatly appreciated.
The Park is located at State Route 8001 in Dunmor, Ky, and consists of over 200 acres with well-maintained hiking trails, camping sites, picnic pavilions and playground equipment. The 788-acre lake is enclosed by dramatic 50-foot sandstone bluffs and surrounded by hardwood forests of mountain laurel, holly, and dogwood trees. Natural wonders abound in Lake Malone’s secluded wilderness and the lake has been described as an “angler’s delight."
The MCTC is an organization whose mission is to invest in and promote Muhlenberg County, attract visitors, and create memories through experiences. For more information about upcoming events in Muhlenberg go to VisitMuhlenberg.com.
