Summertime, summertime, sum, sum, summertime…is there any better time to visit a Washtenaw County park or preserve? Established 35 years ago, the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission is now the steward of 27 parks and nature preserves, totaling over 3,200 acres of land for public use. Our nature preserves are reserved for passive uses and our 1,890 acres of parks provide lots of room for golf, canoeing, fishing, swimming, volleyball, trails, disc golf, children’s playgrounds and more.

Major Parks

Rolling Hills Park in Ypsilanti Township and Independence Lake Park in Webster Township are two of the most popular parks in the County system. Both are prime, local summer destinations. Rolling Hills features a Water Park with water slides, wave pool, spray play, lazy river ride, sun bathing areas and a concession with great tasting food. The water park is a very lively place. You can get wet and cool off in about as many ways as anyone can think of. But Rolling Hills has a quieter side too. There is a pond with a fishing pier and dock, accessible trails, picnic pavilions, an 18-hole disc golf course, and a new children’s playground.

The focus of Independence Lake Park is Independence Lake itself, a beautiful, 192-acre natural lake. "Indy", as it is known to friends, is one of Washtenaw County’s most beloved naturalistic parks. The lake has been attracting swimmers and picnickers for decades and also provides good fishing and small boating opportunities. New this summer, are four paddle-boats that can be rented by the hour for a modest fee. Lifeguards are on duty when the beach is open to provide a safe and secure swimming environment. A 48-element spray zone located near the beach provides a contrasting and exciting water play experience. Snacks and drinks are available at the concession, which can be enjoyed from the adjacent courtyard overlooking the lake. Pavilions may be rented on a daily basis.

Pierce Lake Golf Course in Chelsea is the only golf course that is owned and operated by the Parks and Recreation Commission. The 18-hole, par 72 course has five sets of tees to accommodate all levels of golfers. Pierce Lake is known for its beauty, challenge and value (Golf Digest). Hole #18 is featured in 1001 Golf Holes You Must Play Before You Die by Jeff Barr. Every year the staff develops a varied program of tournaments, youth camps and special events, often with reduced prices. Call (734) 475-5858 for tee times.

Natural Areas Preservation Program (NAPP)

Natural areas owned by WCPARC are open to the public from dawn to dusk. Most NAPP preserves have wooded areas, which are great places to enjoy some summer shade or see the sunlight filter through the leaves in the morning or early evening. Your chances of seeing or hearing wildlife (deer, fox, turkey, songbirds) are enhanced if you are quiet when hiking preserve nature trails. The Commission is working toward the goal of providing a parking area and modest trail system for each NAPP property. Parking is now available at seven sites, and six have at least a short trail system. See NAPP News on page 2 for program updates.

Other Parks

WCPARC operates two historic parks, Parker Mill in Ann Arbor Township and Sharon Mills in Sharon Township, both with mills on water courses. Parker Mill on Fleming Creek is one of the sites of the annual Huron River Day celebrations; the highlight, from the youngsters’ point of view, being the Rubber Duck races. Kids "launch" rubber toy ducks from a spot along the creekside with the first one making it to the bridge declared the winner. This year Huron River Day is Sunday, July 13, and the races start at 3:00 pm. Another popular family-fun event at Parker Mill is the annual Log Cabin Day celebration on Sunday, June 29 from 1-4 pm. Summer is "Wedding Season" at Sharon Mills Park. Taking advantage of the site’s scenic beauty and sounds of rushing water, couples have been tying the knot at the mill for many years. The tradition began when the mill was operated as a winery and continues with the assistance of the professional caterer Food Art. If you are looking for a unique venue for your special event, give them a call at (734) 222-9098. Sharon Mills is also a great place to take the kids fishing, or for a canoe ride, or for history buffs to inspect the mill and hydroelectric generator and view the interpretive signs and exhibits. Indeed, there is something for everyone to enjoy this summer in your County Parks! h

Richard Kent, Park Planner