Krodel Park | Parkersburg

Krodel Park is a municipal park situated in Parkersburg, West Virginia. It functions as a public recreational space within the city limits.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a 10-acre lake with a concrete dam. Surrounding the lake are mature deciduous trees, primarily oak and maple species, providing significant canopy cover. The terrain is gently rolling, with mowed grass areas interspersed with wooded sections. A paved perimeter path encircles the lake.

Location & Access Logistics

Krodel Park is located at 1000 13th Street, Parkersburg, WV 26101. It is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) southwest of the downtown Parkersburg core. Access is directly from 13th Street, which is a two-lane city road. A dedicated parking lot with approximately 50 spaces is available off 13th Street. Public transport options are limited; however, the Parkersburg Transit bus route 3 (Southside) stops at the intersection of 13th Street and 7th Avenue, a 0.5km walk to the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in 1924 through a land donation by the Krodel family. The lake was created by the construction of a concrete dam across a small tributary of the Ohio River. The area is part of the Appalachian Plateau physiographic region, characterized by dissected terrain and deciduous forests.

Key Highlights & Activities

Fishing is permitted in the lake. A playground area is situated on the western side of the park. The paved path is suitable for walking and jogging. The park contains several picnic tables and grills. Birdwatching is a common activity due to the diverse tree species.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main parking lot. Several covered picnic shelters offer shade. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally consistent throughout the park. No on-site food vendors operate within the park; however, commercial establishments are located within a 1km radius on Emerson Avenue.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) offers favorable lighting conditions with fewer shadows. The months of April through October provide the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. No specific tide requirements apply as the lake is freshwater.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the lake was once stocked with trout, though this is unverified. The park's original purpose was to provide a green space for the growing industrial population of Parkersburg.

Nearby Landmarks

• Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park (Ferry access from Point Park, 3km Northeast)
• Ohio River Museum (2.5km North)
• Parkersburg City Park (1.5km East)
• Walnut Hills Cemetery (1km Southwest)