Yoctangee Park Lake sits just north of downtown Chillicothe, the first capital of Ohio. A former bed of the Scioto River, the lake serves as a focal point for the community in all seasons.

Early in the morning, you can always find the regulars stopping by to feed the ducks, Canada geese and Trumpeter swans while the squirrels hope a few crumbs will be dropped for them.

The daffodils, Bradford pear trees and other flowers explode with color in the spring.

Summer weekends find the kids, parents and grandparents frolicking around the nearby shelters with their cousins, aunts and uncles for the many family reunions that bring another focus to the park.

In January and February, a storm can transform the park into a winter wonderland and below freezing temps for a few days mean a skating rink for the community.

Yoctangee Park Lake truly is an oasis in all seasons.