The dedicated members of the Lake Ripley Improvement Association are working to create not only a source of pride for city residents but an enormous recreational drawing card for the city.

Lake Ripley was a huge draw once before, more than a century ago, when big city tourists arrived by train in Litchfield to enjoy summers at the lake. Its pristine waters and beautiful shoreline, combined with its close proximity to Minneapolis and St. Paul, were the impetus for investors who built a resort on the south shore. Brightwood Beach was the hub of social activities from July 1889 to July 1893.

Lake Ripley might never be home to a large resort like Brightwood again, but Dr. David Ross, a member of the Lake Ripley Improvement Association, believes it could be a destination spot for summer fun-seekers. He and the association have a Beach of Dreams, a "five-point return to glory" for Lake Ripley, which includes improvements to changing rooms, restrooms and shelter at the public beach; sand added to the beach annually; aquatic recreation equipment, such as an inflatable trampoline, added to the swimming area; beach raking and cleaning; and twice-a-season swimmers itch treatment.

"If we're able to do those sorts of things, I think the lake can be an attraction again," Ross said. "We want to make Lake Ripley the community attraction and asset it ought to be."

Lake Ripley still is a recreational focus of Litchfield and the surrounding community. A good fishing spot, Lake Ripley is host to several fishing tournaments each year. The 558-acre lake has a maximum depth of 18 feet, and is home to several kinds of game fish, including bluegill, crappie, northern pike, walleye, and even a few catfish and largemouth bass.

On the east side of the lake is a public boat launch, a swimming area, park, and play equipment. A boat launch and park area are on the lake's west side. There are several picnic areas along the lake, as well as a lakeside campground.

A four-mile paved path circles the lake, a popular destination for walkers, joggers, bikers and in-line skaters. Litchfield's golf course is nearby.

Lake Ripley Improvement Association
Lake Ripley Improvement Association meets at 7 p.m. the second Sunday of each month at the Litchfield Public Library. Anyone interested in the lake's future can attend. Donations to LRIA improvement fund can be mailed to City of Litchfield c/o Lake Ripley Improvement Association, 126 Marshall Ave. N., Litchfield, MN 55355. For more information, contact Dr. Dave Ross at (320) 593-1872, or skiross@hutchtel.net