Lake Welch Beach

Who knew that everyone in a 50 mile radius goes to this spot all at the same time? Wow, with so many folks packed in to a tiny beach, even busses of them off loading, we drove into the parking lot, took a look out the car window, and drove back out. I asked for my ten bucks back since we had bought the ticket a minute before and had not even got out of the car, but they wouldn't give it back. The entire park has signs all over it forbidding you from entering so many trails, parking areas, and lake areas that we ended up eating our picnic in the car because so many signs said we would be towed at owner's expense. I love nature, hiking, and public parks, but this one is the least welcoming place I have ever visited. Oh, and it is a mecca for loud motorcycling. Instead of hearing birds, all you can hear are loud motor bikes whizzing by on the roadways. We finally found paid parking, but there were no trails connected to the parking area. We thought we'd at least hike since we had given up on the lake swimming and had already finished our picnic in the car. No dice. There were only loud roads with motorcycles blasting by. This place could be so nice if it was organized with human enjoyment in mind.
9 years ago (01-08-2017)

I really love this place and I'm from the suburbs. The "city folk" are not bad people. They are people who come here to have a good time and enjoy themselves with their families. It's very family oriented and by "city folk" in the comments, they mean to say a lot of Hispanic and Black people... so yes, don't come here if you have that negative mentality, because the place is fun and nobody is bothering anyone. The rangers are nice, so are the life guards. Everyone is friendly. If u arrive after a certain hour on weekends you won't be able to park in field 3 because the parking lot gets full. Field 3 includes the snack bar. If you are looking for a low key place to hang out with open minded people, then this is the place for you. If not, don't bother coming because your prejudices will blind you from experiencing a good time.
9 years ago (17-07-2017)

First time , love it. Water is not salty at all , feels so good. Better than water trust me. Parking at fair price , just get there early, only problem is that I saw at least 3 fishes and they were big but they don't harm you but I find it disgusting in my opinion so I never went back in. The lady and the beach supply area is so rude and kicked us out because we were waiting in the store for our parents to bring us the money we needed to buy goggles , overall is very nice . Have fun
9 years ago (21-08-2017)

Wonderful on weekdays. Clean beach and lake. Water is calm and warm. Rate is affordable $10/car.Snack bar provides standards at fair prices. Plenty of space on a 90 degree day in July. Weekends are expectedly crowded but have an urban vibe. Love it for small children. Our family's go to beach.
9 years ago (21-07-2017)

Have mostly stopped in here during loop hikes of the area. The lake is pretty and is a nice spot for canoeing/kayaking (tags required). The beach itself gets really crowded in the summer. Don't bother trying to park here during a hot day if you just want to hike. Otherwise, its a nice location that allows swimming, volleyball, and barbecuing.
9 years ago (20-07-2017)