Friends of Lake O' the Pines

To partner with and support the US Army Corps of Engineers' educational, interpretive, and conservation programs while ensuring, improving and/or developing recreational opportunities such as hike and bike trails, paddle trails, and other opportunities as recognized to improve environmental and recreational enjoyment of Lake O' the Pines.

Friends of Lake O' the Pines was founded in 2019 to operate alongside the US Army Corps of Engineers. Through a cooperating agreement, the Friends Group can provide public outreach resources well beyond the capacity of the Corps alone. With their assistance and support, we aim to provide new and improved educational and recreational opportunities while strengthening local economies and elevating the lives of local residents.

Why a Friends Group?

Friends Groups involve their community by providing financial support and volunteer hours for a variety of projects and events. That's good for everyone! Especially when the alternative is closing parks due to shrinking budgets.

What we can do, and are doing:

*DISC GOLF - An 18 hole disc golf course is currently in the the planning stages and will be installed at Lakeside Park day use area. Baskets have already been purchased by the USACE!

*HIKING AND MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS - A small hiking trail has been re-established in Alley Creek Campground. Trails are to be built in other park areas around the lake as well, and are currently in the planning stages.

*KAYAKING - Multiple locations around the lake are suitable for designated kayaking trails. Kayaking has become a popular recreational pastime in East Texas and can provide excellent destination tourism opportunities and benefits.

*INTERPRETIVE AREAS, BIRDING, and CHILDREN'S EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS - Day trips and programs. Everyone should have the opportunity to get outside and experience nature, especially our local children.

*AND MORE! - These are only the highlights of what Friends of Lake O' the Pines can do with your support. We have provided assistance with family movie nights, hosted a fall hayride and family picnic day, and installed fishing line recycling stations around the Lake.

Why do I matter?

The US Army Corps of Engineers manages hundreds of the most cherished lakes and rivers in America. The associated recreational use of these areas can have a considerable impact on the local economy and quality of life. Cooperating Associations (Friend's Groups) are the champions of these local recreational areas. That is why WE matter, and why YOU matter.

We are actively looking for new members and donors/sponsors to help us carry our mission forward. We cannot do it without wonderful people like you.

Together... We can do Great Things!