Island Park

Location and Overview

Nestled along the Huron River in Ann Arbor, Island Park is a serene 7-acre getaway that feels worlds apart from city life. This little touch of nature is only accessible via a footbridge, which honestly adds to its charm and secluded feel.

Whether you're in the mood for a lazy picnic, want to dip your toes in the river, or need a peaceful spot to launch your kayak, this park is a good option. And if you're feeling adventurous, a wooden bridge connects you directly to Fuller Park nearby.

Facilities and Amenities

The park's Greek Revival shelter is a picturesque centerpiece that makes for a beautiful backdrop for photos. Island Park Shelter B is particularly spacious and comes with electricity, great for those gatherings where your portable speaker just won't cut it.

You'll come across picnic tables scattered throughout, some under covered pavilions near the parking lot, and others - our personal favorites - tucked along the riverbank where the views are simply better. Most tables come with grills nearby, so you can show off those BBQ skills while enjoying the riverside ambiance.

Just note that while restrooms are available from spring through fall, they close during winter months - so plan accordingly if you're a cold-weather explorer.

Recreation and Play Areas

The playground here isn't massive, but it's got all the essentials - slides, swings, and climbing structures set on wood mulch. It's ideal for kids under 12, with some shady spots thanks to surrounding trees (though sunscreen is still a good idea for the sunnier sections).

The Huron River flowing alongside the park is shallow and gentle in many spots, making it excellent for a supervised splash with the little ones. Kids seem to love hunting for shells along the riverbanks - a simple activity that can somehow keep them entertained for hours.

If you're into kayaking, the park's launch point gives you easy access to the Huron River Water Trail. Paddling from here to Gallup Park makes for a lovely hour-long journey on a calm day.

Wildlife and Natural Features

Bring your binoculars! The park is a surprisingly good spot for wildlife watching. Ducks and Canadian geese are regulars, but keep your eyes peeled for the occasional kingfisher or osprey. Some lucky visitors have even spotted eagles soaring overhead.

The shallow edges of the river create natural observation pools where you might catch glimpses of frogs, snakes, and small fish going about their day. What's particularly impressive is how well-maintained the natural areas are - lots of native plants and relatively few invasives, creating a healthy little ecosystem right in the city.

Walking Trails and Accessibility

The paved trails winding through and around the park are well-maintained and accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. For those seeking a bit more adventure, some paths lead through wooded sections with occasional steep changes in elevation - nothing extreme, but enough to get your heart rate up a bit.

These trails are especially breathtaking in autumn when the surrounding trees put on their show of reds, oranges, and golds reflected in the Huron River below.

Community Activities

During warmer months, the park becomes quite active with community events. You might stumble upon anything from neighborhood meetings to members of the Barony of Cynnabar engaged in medieval reenactments (yes, really!).

There's even a small roofed amphitheater near the river that provides an intimate setting for gatherings. And that Greek-style shelter at the far tip of the island? It's become something of a peaceful escape for weddings, offering couples a naturally beautiful setting with the gentle soundtrack of flowing water.