Nelson Meade County Farm Park

Park Overview

Found in eastern Ann Arbor, Michigan, Nelson Meade County Farm Park sprawls across 141 acres of natural beauty. This Washtenaw County park offers a little bit of everything - peaceful woodlands, open fields, and charming gardens that create homes for all sorts of plants and critters. Whether you're in the mood for a hike, a jog, a bike ride, or just want to wander around soaking in nature, you'll find plenty of options here.

A Bit of History

This land has quite the backstory. Originally purchased by the county way back in 1836, it served as both a poorhouse and an infirmary before finding its true calling as a public park in 1972. Over the decades, it's evolved to include community gardens and an extensive trail network.

Natural Wonders

The County Farm Nature Area offers diverse habitats. What were once agricultural fields and hedgerows have become thriving habitats. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot rabbits hopping about, woodchucks waddling along, or even the occasional deer or fox if you're lucky.

Since 2000, there's been a real push to restore the ecosystem here - bringing in native plants, showing invasive species the door, and creating beautiful prairies and wet meadows. Spring brings a carpet of trilliums, while summer fills the park with wildflowers.

The trails wind through a mix of sunny open spaces and cool, shaded woods - perfect if you need a moment of peace without leaving the city. There's something incredibly calming about taking a slow walk here, watching for wildlife, or just sitting quietly with thoughts.

Gardens & Waterways

Gardening enthusiasts will appreciate the octagonal perennial flower garden and the Project Grow Community Gardens - the oldest and largest community gardening network in Ann Arbor. With 84 plots spanning about three acres, local residents can get their hands dirty growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers.

These gardens transform visibly throughout the growing season. If you're interested in growing your own produce, you can even rent a plot. Across the park, flower gardens filled with seasonal blooms attract butterflies and provide nice photo opportunities.

Malletts Creek, a tributary flowing into the Huron River, meanders through the park. Recent restoration work has created a three-acre wet meadow that helps reduce erosion and manages phosphorus flowing into the river - science and beauty working together.

Fun for Everyone

If you've got kids in tow, the farm-themed playground is a must-visit. It's thoughtfully designed with areas for different age groups - a special soft-surfaced zone for toddlers, and more challenging equipment for the bigger kids. The main structure looks like a little farm, complete with tractor and train elements that are popular with children. Safety hasn't been overlooked either, with rubber surfaces and soft artificial turf cushioning any tumbles.

Feeling active? The park offers several trail options, including a Fitness Trail with 18 strength-training stations, plus the Outer Loop Trail, Inner Loop Trail, and Britton Woods Nature Trail. Some paths are nicely paved or graveled, while others are simple dirt trails winding through woods and fields.

Practical Stuff

Planning a gathering? The park has you covered with a large pavilion equipped with picnic tables and electrical outlets. There are charcoal grills scattered throughout for impromptu cookouts, and clean restrooms near the playground and pavilion areas.

Dog owners, your furry friends are welcome but need to stay leashed. You'll discover plenty of waste stations along the trails to keep things tidy.

There's good parking available at two separate lots, though fair warning - the main lot by the playground fills up quickly on weekends and during events. When you need a drink or a rest, water fountains and benches are conveniently placed across the grounds.