Nelson Meade County Farm Park

Nelson Meade County Farm Park, spanning 141 acres, is a picturesque public park located in eastern Ann Arbor, Michigan. Owned by Washtenaw County, the park is managed by the county's Parks and Recreation Commission. The park offers a diverse mix of natural environments, including woodlands, fields, and gardens, which serve as habitats for various flora and fauna. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, jogging, biking, and ecological exploration.

The park holds historical significance as the site was originally county land purchased in 1836, later serving as both a poorhouse and an infirmary. In 1972, it transitioned into a public park, incorporating features like community gardens and trails over subsequent decades. A notable highlight is the County Farm Nature Area, primarily consisting of fields and hedgerows that were previously agricultural spaces. It is home to various wildlife, including birds, rabbits, woodchucks, and occasional deer or foxes. Ecological restoration efforts since 2000 have introduced native vegetation, removed invasive plants, and created prairies and wet meadows, enhancing its biodiversity.

The gardens at County Farm Park include an octagonal perennial flower garden and Project Grow Community Gardens—Ann Arbor’s oldest and largest community gardening network. These gardens offer 84 plots for local residents and foster community engagement with nature. Additionally, Malletts Creek, a tributary of the Huron River, runs through the park. Restoration projects have improved its ecological health, creating a three-acre wet meadow to reduce erosion and manage phosphorus flow into the river.

Another standout feature is the farm-themed playground, which caters to toddlers, young children, and older kids alike. The playground includes slides, adaptive swings, sandboxes, and climbing structures, making it ideal for family outings. Trails are abundant throughout the park, with a Fitness Trail featuring 18 strength-training stations, the Outer Loop Trail, the Inner Loop Trail, and the Britton Woods Nature Trail, providing opportunities for both casual and active exploration. The park also offers pavilions for picnics, restrooms, and ample parking, making it a well-equipped spot for recreational activities and community events.