Into the Outdoors

WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION PROGRAM GUIDE

INTO THE OUTDOORS

EVENTS

CLASSES

NATURE

From the Director COY VAUGHN

Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Robert W. Marans President Patricia Scribner Vice President TO BE APPOINTED Secretary Janis Bobrin Dan Ezekiel Jo Ann McCollum Ricky Jefferson Robert Joerg Brenda McKinney Evan Pratt Sue Shink Coy Vaughn Director Administration Building 2230 Platt Road Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Mailing: P.O. Box 8645 Ann Arbor, MI 48107-8645 Phone: (734) 971-6337 Fax: (734) 971-6386

On December 8, 2020, the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission bid a fond farewell to long-time Commissioner Janice Anschuetz, who retired after a long and impactful tenure.

In 1973, the same year the Commission was founded, Ms. Anschuetz joined an enthusiastic group of volunteers dedicated to bringing high-quality recreation opportunities to the residents of Washtenaw County. The park system that started with a handful of “roadside” parks has evolved into one of the premier recreation agencies in the State thanks, in part, to Ms. Anschuetz’ dedication.

Under her leadership and particular interest in environmental causes, engaging with youth, and promoting county history, many of the Commission’s signature programs were established, including Rolling Hills Waterpark, Highland Preserve, Border-to-Border Trail, and Ypsilanti CommUNITY Skatepark. Her love of animals was instrumental in establishing a partnership with the Humane Society of Huron Valley “Walk and Wag” event held at Rolling Hills Park.

Ms. Anschuetz’ passion for the eastern area of the county and desire to promote social equity spurred funding support for several partnership projects in underserved communities, including Rutherford Pool, Parkridge Community Center, and the Ypsilanti Senior Center.

The Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission wishes to express its sincere appreciation to Ms. Anschuetz for her dedication to improving the lives of the citizens of Washtenaw County. Her legacy will continue to serve the residents of Washtenaw County for generations to come.

parks@washtenaw.org washtenaw.org/parks

EDITOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hannah Cooley, Management Analyst Cover Photo Credit Katie Carlisle, Stewardship Coordinator Cover photo taken at Independence Lake County Park Back page photo taken at Nelson Meade County Farm Park

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WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION | WINTER 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

Facility Information Independence Lake Park

Rolling Hills Park

5

Programs, Activities & Certifications Independence Lake Park

6-7 Facility Map

Due to COVID-19 program offerings 8 Nature have been reduced

Hikes to accommodate for Volunteer facility closures and social distancing 9 Nature Programs measures.

Family Nature Adventures Junior Naturalists

10

Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center

11

Membership

12-13

Virtual Fitness Classes

WASHTENAW.ORG/PARKS | PARKS@WASHTENAW.ORG | (734) 971-6337

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Independence Lake Park PARK INFORMATION 3200 Jennings Road Whitmore Lake, MI (734) 449-4437 washtenaw.org/parks washtenaw.org/independencelake

Hours of Operation General Park (year-round):

Memorial Day-Labor Day, 8am-9pm

Labor Day-Memorial Day, 8am-dusk Blue Heron Bay Spray Park (seasonal):

Memorial Day-Labor Day, 11am-7pm Beach (seasonal):

Memorial Day-Labor Day, 10am-8pm

Entrance Fees Vehicles Daily Annual Seniors Mini Bus ($75 annual) Bus ($150 annual)

County Resident* $6 $30 $3 $15 $30

Blue Heron Bay Spray Park Daily Weekdays after 5:00pm Individual Person Annual Pass Family of Four Annual Passes

Non-County Resident $10 $45 $6 $15 $30

$4 $3 $30 $100

$5 $4 $40 $130

County Resident* $6 $30 $3 $15 $30

Non-County Resident $10 $45 $6 $15 $30

$8 ($6) $6 ($4) $10 $8 free

$10 ($7) $8 ($5) $13 $11 free

(non-holiday) *Proof of residency required

Rolling Hills Park PARK INFORMATION 7660 Stony Creek Road Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197 (734) 484-9676 washtenaw.org/parks washtenaw.org/rollinghills

Hours of Operation General Park (year-round):

Memorial Day-Labor Day, 8am-9pm

Labor Day-Memorial Day, 8am-dusk Water Park:

Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day:

Weekdays, 11am-7pm

Weekends & holidays, 11am-8pm

*Note: First two and last two weeks of season have

shortened hours of operation

Entrance Fees Vehicles Daily Annual Seniors Mini Bus ($75 annual) Bus ($150 annual) Water Park Weekdays after 5:00pm Children 36”-42” tall Weekend/Holiday Children 36”-42” tall Children under 36” *Proof of residency required

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WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION | WINTER 2021

Independence Lake Park PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES

NIGHT HIKE

January 8 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm | $5/family or household (up to 4 people) Explore the park on a lantern lit trail (between a ½ mile and 1 mile) for a self-guided hike through the woods. There will be a campfire, s’mores, and hot cocoa at our Beach Center Pavilion after the hike. Dog walkers welcome. The check-in counter will be at the Beach Center Pavilion. Registration # IL431310.

CREATING WINTER HABITAT

January 9 | 10:00am - 3:00pm | $5/family or household (up to 4 people) 5 slots for 4 sections 10:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, and 2:00pm Looking for a useful way to dispose of your holiday tree? Bring it to us for repurposing!

We’re taking trees and using them to create some winter habitat for birds and other wildlife. Drop off your tree and then join a short naturalist-led hike to learn about the animals that will use the trees as their cozy home! Registration #IL461100.

KIDS’ ICE FISHING CLINIC

January 23 | 9:00am - 12:15pm | $10/family or household (up to 4 people) 5 slots for 2 sections 9:00am-10:30am and 10:45am-12:15pm Join us for an informational and hands-on clinic to learn about ice fishing.

Learn about winter fishing, safety practices, and types of fish. Clinic includes fish identification guide and logbook. Practice skills learned on the ice with staff and then warm up with hot cocoa and cookies. Recommended for ages 5-12. Bait and fishing equipment will be provided for use during event. Registration # IL431321.

FULL MOON HIKE

January 29 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm | $5/family or household (up to 4 people) 5 slots for 2 sections 6:30-7:30pm and 7:30-8:30pm January’s full moon is the Wolf Moon and it marks the beginning of the year as a wonderful time to start again and tune into the cycles of nature. Discover winter wonders under the light of the full moon and learn why our indigneous peoples named this moon for the mysterious wolf. Led by Naturalist Elle Bogle. There will be a campfire, s’mores and hot cocoa at the Beach Center Pavilion after the hike.

Dog walkers welcome. Registration # IL461100

YOGA IN THE PARK (VIRTUAL CLASS)

Sundays (January 3 - March 28) | 10:00am - 11:00am | $30/month or $65/full session A Slow flow yoga class, all levels welcome, no experience necessary. Emphasis is placed on core strength, flexibility, and balance as well as concentration and breath control. Zoom link will be sent out to registered participants prior to the first class. Registration # IL441104.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!

• • • • • • •

Questions? Contact Julie at sigdaj@ewashtenaw.org or shonerj@washtenaw.org.

Participants must wear masks when checking in (at Beach Center Pavilion) and throughout the activity.

Family/Household slots are limited in compliance with social distancing guidelines.

At check-in families will be asked for a temperature check, and health and wellness questions.

Outdoor activities may be cancelled due to inclement weather. Please check website and Facebook.

All park programs are subject to vehicle entry fee.

Pre-registration required. Register at parksonline.ewashtenaw.org for programs, trainings and certifications!

WASHTENAW.ORG/PARKS | PARKS@WASHTENAW.ORG | (734) 971-6337

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18

WEBSTER 52

North Terr ito

DEXTER

1

NO

rial

LY N D O N

23 £ ¤

17

16

19

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DEXTER

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AN

20

CHELSEA

2

14

21 15

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S Y LVA N

LIMA

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4

5

52

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12

6

SHARON

Pleasant Lake

FREEDOM

LODI

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8

MANCHESTER B R I D G E WAT E R

Austin

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R iv er

9

Sharon Hollow

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MANCHESTER

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WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION | WINTER 2021

Sa li n

7

r ive R e

12 £ ¤

SALINE

SALINE

FACILITY MAP 1. Park Lyndon | 340 acres

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2. Cavanaugh Lake County Park | 59 acres 3. Herman L. Koenn Preserve | 191 acres 4. Squiers Preserve | 57 acres 5. Clark & Avis Spike Preserve | 103 acres

SALEM

ORTHFIELD

6. Sharon Short Hills Preserve | 84 acres 7. Sharon Mills County Park | 248 acres 8. Leonard Preserve | 259 acres 9. Watkins Lake State Park & County Preserve 1,122 acres (407 acres owned by WCPARC)

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32

10. Riverbend Preserve | 53 acres

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11. Ervin-Stucki Preserve | 126 acres 12. Brauer Preserve | 314 acres

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N ARBOR

13. Pierce Lake Golf Course & Park | 232 acres

35

SUPERIOR

30

14. Baker Woods Preserve | 70 acres 15. Trinkle Marsh Preserve at Easton Farm 151 acres

36 29

ANN ARBOR

16. Albert J. Miller and Robert &

Nancy Smith Preserve | 29 acres

37 38

17. West Lake Preserve | 275 acres 18. Independence Lake County Park | 446 acres -and Gosline Preserve* | 40 acres

Geddes

28

19. Osborne Mill Preserve | 39 acres

27

20. Burns-Stokes Preserve | 29 acres

YPSILANTI

21. Fox Science Preserve | 73 acres 22. DeVine Preserve | 157 acres 23. Scio Woods Preserve | 91 acres

¨ § ¦ 94

26

24. Draper-Houston Meadows Preserve 113 acres 25. Harwood Heritage Preserve | 16 acres 26. Swift Run Dog Park | 10 acres

25

27. Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center -and Nelson Meade County Farm Park | 127 acres

YPSILANTI

ITTSFIELD

28. Parker Mill County Park | 44 acres 29. Tom A. Freeman Preserve | 59 acres

39

30. Raymond F. Goodrich Preserve | 48 acres 31. Northfield Woods Preserve/

Arbor Woods Preserve | 81 acres & 22 acres

23 £ ¤

32. Park Northfield | 12 acres 33. Whitmore Lake Preserve | 235 acres 34. Staebler Farm County Park | 98 acres

YORK

A U G U S TA

35. Weatherbee Woods | 84 acres 36. Kosch Headwaters Preserve | 160 acres

N

24

MILAN

37. Superior Center Park | 1 acre

E

W S

38. Meyer Preserve | 260 acres 39. Rolling Hills County Park & Water Park 439 acres

*Map not to scale

WASHTENAW.ORG/PARKS | PARKS@WASHTENAW.ORG | (734) 971-6337

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Nature Hikes

with Naturalists Kelsey, Shawn & Elle

JAN 10

2PM - 4PM

JAN 12

8:30AM - 10AM

JAN 23

2PM - 4PM

JAN 24

2PM - 3:30PM

WINTER WANDER West Lake Preserve | Naturalist, Kelsey Dehring Admire the beautiful landscape as we enter the heart of winter.

West Lake offers a “wintery mix” of field, forest, and lakeside as we observe local trees, wildlife, and hopefully tracks if there is snow.

Hike led by Kelsey Dehring. Space is limited to 10 hikers. Email Kelsey at dehringk@washtenaw.org to register SUNRISE NATURE HIKE County Farm Park | Naturalist, Elle Bogle Winter is well underway but there is still plenty of beauty to be seen. Leaves and flowers may be absent, but the trees and roots are slumbering and dreaming of spring. Come enjoy the crisp morning air as we wander the park and discover winter’s hidden wonderments. Space is limited to 10 people. Please bring a mask and base layers are advised. Email Elle at boglee@washtenaw.org to register RIVER AND PRAIRIE HIKE Burns-Stokes Preserve | Naturalist, Shawn Severance Hike the diverse habitats that line the banks of the Huron River, appreciating their winter beauty and learning about the wildlife that they support. Hike through oak woodland, sedge meadow, tallgrass prairie and floodplain forest, searching for signs of beaver, deer, coyote and other wildlife. Geared for ages 12 and up. Please wear a mask and dress warmly. Email Shawn at severances@washtenaw.org to register.

WINTER FOREST MINDFULNESS HIKE Scio Woods Preserve | Naturalist, Elle Bogle Winter is an excellent time to practice mindfulness. In the beauty of stillness, we are able to listen to the silence between sounds, breathe in the aromas of the forest, feel the distinct texture of each tree’s bark, and taste the snowflakes melting on our tongues. This hike will be at a slow to moderate pace through the woods with period stops for quiet reflection and connection with our senses.

Co-led by Julie Woodward of Mindful City Ann Arbor. Please bring a mask, wearing a base layer is recommended, and bring a mug for optional hot tea at the end of the hike. This hike is limited to 10 people. Email boglee@washtenaw.org to register.

Volunteer

with Stewardship Coordinator, Katie Carlisle

JAN 9

1PM - 4PM

STEWARDSHIP SATURDAY & NATURE WALK Sharon Mills County Park | Stewardship Coordinator, Katie Carlisle Join us the second Saturday of every month to help the environment and explore new places. Be a part of the ongoing restoration efforts at Sharon Mills County Park by volunteering to remove invasive shrubs using hand tools. We will spend half of the time on stewardship work and the other half looking for signs of beaver and other wildlife along the banks of the River Raisin, then warm up around a (socially distanced) campfire with some hot cocoa. Hike led by Parks Naturalist Shawn Severance. Space is limited to 20 hikers. Email carlislec@washtenaw.org to register.

Photo Credit: Laura Mueller

WASHTENAW.ORG/PARKS | PARKS@WASHTENAW.ORG | (734) 971-6337

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Family Nature Programs ADVENTURES, HIKES & EXPLORATION

with Naturalists, Kelsey, Shawn & Elle Learn about the nature and history of Washtenaw County through a naturalist-led hike or program.

From Summer Butterflies to Tracks in the Snow, we offer programs for all ages and ability levels.

Learn, play, explore and discover with Washtenaw County Parks!

Junior Naturalists

Family Nature Adventures REGISTRATION: parksonline.ewashtenaw.org Fee: Free Program 10 Participants/Section

Animal Tracks and Signs

#821002

Fox Science Preserve | Naturalist, Shawn Severance Explore the gravel pit in winter, searching for clues of winter survival. Learn how to identify common animal tracks in snow, mud and sand as well as search for interesting rocks and other finds.

REGISTRATION: parksonline.ewashtenaw.org Fee: Free Program (*Vehicle Admission Fee Required) 20 Participants/Section (Ages 7 to 11)

Winter Fire Building

Independence Lake County Park* Naturalists, Elle Bogle & Kelsey Dehring

#821004

Learn how to build a campfire with only materials you find in nature. Fire lays, tinder bundles and kindling will all be DATES DAY TIME demonstrated and practiced. Learn the rule of 3’s and how they relate to fires.

1/30 Sat 10:00am - 11:30am

1/30

Sat

2:00pm - 3:30pm

DATES DAY 1/23

YOU SHOULD KNOW!

• • •

Sat

TIME

1:30pm - 3:30pm

Please bring a mask to all in-person programs.

Pre-registration is required for everyone attending over the age of 2.

Restricted to 5 children per section, accompanied by one adult. No unregistered siblings, please!

WASHTENAW.ORG/PARKS | PARKS@WASHTENAW.ORG | (734) 971-6337

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Winter 2021

MERI LOU MURRAY RECREATION CENTER

MEMBERSHIP 10

FITNESS

WASHTENAW COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION | WINTER 2021

SWIM

MERI LOU MURRAY RECREATION CENTER

Membership

Since the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center opened in 1991, it has been a popular venue for recreation enthusiasts. The center has approximately 51,000 square feet of space dedicated to fitness and recreation.

RATES

(I) Individual: 16-64 Years ■ (Y) Youth: 3-15 Years (S) Senior: 65+ Years ■ (D) Disabled (with doctor’s note)

30-Day Pass

30-Day passes are valid for thirty (30) days from purchase at the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center.

TYPE

RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT

I/S/D/Y Family

$45 $45 $100 $100

Annual Pass (One-Time Payment)

Annual passes are valid for one (1) year from purchase at the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center.

TYPE

Individual Y/S/D Family Over 80

RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT $237 $355 $186 $278 $510 $767 $65 $65

Annual Pass (Monthly Billing)

*Requires one (1) year contract. Annual passes are valid for one (1) year from purchase at the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center.

TYPE

Individual Y/S/D Family

RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT $32/mo $37.50/mo $30.25/mo $34/mo $57/mo $78.50/mo

Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center New Hours!

On December 7, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued a new order which extended the State’s threeweek pause as the numbers of newly infected and hospitalized residents remains high. Keeping in mind the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services extension of the three-week pause, minor adjustments will be made to facility hours beginning on Monday, December 14, 2020 and lasting through Sunday, January 10, 2021. The facility and holiday hours will be as follows:

• Monday through Friday; 6am to 1pm & 3pm to 8pm

• Saturday; 8am – 6pm

• Sunday; Closed The building will continue to operate to members only at 25% capacity. The indoor pool will also remain open at this time, with four swimming lanes. For more information about this and other changes check out the website washtenaw.org/reccenter.

Recreation Center Cover/Photo Credit: Bryan Mitchell

WASHTENAW.ORG/PARKS | PARKS@WASHTENAW.ORG | (734) 971-6337

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Virtual Fitness Classes GROUP FITNESS

6am to 1pm & 3pm - 8pm

Saturday 8am to 6pm

Sunday

PiYo

#14000

Mix of pilates and yoga that increases flexibility and core strength. All Fitness levels welcome.

DATES DAY 1/15 - 3/26

F

TIME

11:45am - 12:45pm

Matwork Pilates

#14000

Benefits include increased overall flexibility, abdominal strength and an overall sense of well-being. Feel stronger and leaner as you develop your core.

DATES DAY M W

TIME

11:45am - 12:45pm 11:45am - 12:45pm

Pilates Plus

#14000

This class begins with a short aerobic warm-up, moves to the mat for pilates, and ends with yoga flow sequences.

Benefits include increased flexibility, core, strength and an overall sense of well-being. All levels welcome.

DATES DAY 1/12 - 3/23

T

TIME

8:00 - 9:00am

Qigong & Tai Chi

#14000

Enjoy an hour of healthy stretching, flow, and meditation with seated and standing exercises. Calm your mind, improve flexibility, balance, motor skills and mental focus.

All ages and fitness levels welcome.

DATES DAY

12

Lower Gym Hours Monday-Friday

6am to 1pm & 3pm - 7pm 8am to 5pm

Sunday CLOSED

Pool Hours

Pool hours are reserved for lap swimming and swim lessons.

Pre-registration is required.

Monday-Friday 6am to 1pm & 3pm - 7pm

Saturday 8am to 5pm

Sunday CLOSED

Mind & Body

1/12 - 3/23

CLOSED

Saturday

Pilates

1/11 - 3/22 1/13 - 3/24

To allow proper time to sanitize the facility the new hours are:

Monday-Friday

REGISTRATION: parksonline.ewashtenaw.org ZOOM: Links will be emailed to participants FEE: $60/person (January 10 – March 27) MAXIMUM 100 PARTICIPANTS PER SESSION

Yoga

Building Hours

T

TIME

9:30 - 10:30am

Group Fitness Hotline 734-971-6355, #5 Call for daily, current class schedule; updated only to announce class cancellations.

Virtual Fitness Classes Dance

GROUP FITNESS

REGISTRATION: parksonline.ewashtenaw.org ZOOM: Links will be emailed to participants FEE: $60/person (January 10 – March 27) MAXIMUM 100 PARTICIPANTS PER SESSION

Dance Fitness

#14000

This class begins with dance and toning, then moves to core muscle strengthening on the mat, and ends with mild stretch. All fitness levels welcome!

DATES DAY 1/15 - 3/26

Basic Sculpt & Condition Basic Sculpt & Condition

#14000

Slower paced entry-level workout for all ages. Hand weights and tubes strengthen and tone muscles while improving flexibility and balance.

DATES DAY 1/14 - 3/25

Th

Stretch and Strengthen

#14000

DATES DAY T Th Sat

Aerobic Fitness

Basic Aerobics

TIME

6:40 - 7:40pm

#14000

Slower paced, entry-level workout for all ages. A mix of aerobics, conditioning and stretching.

TIME DATES DAY 8:30 - 9:30am

This class is for all ages to strengthen and stretch all major muscle groups at their own level. Core work and balance will be addressed.

1/12 - 3/23 1/14 - 3/25 1/16 - 3/27

F

1/11 - 3/22 1/13 - 3/24 1/15 - 3/26

M W F

Aerobic Interval

TIME

9:30 - 10:30am 9:30 - 10:30am 9:00 - 10:00am

#14000

Combination of aerobic conditioning and muscle work.

TIME This is a great cardiovascular workout!

11:00am - Noon 11:00am - Noon 12:15 - 1:15pm

DATES DAY 1/11 - 3/22

M

Aerobic Interval - Intense!

TIME

10:35 - 11:35am

#14000

This class will help you stay in shape, focus on muscles and endurance, and have fun through the late fall and winter!

DATES DAY 1/13 - 3/24

W

Aerobics & Strength

TIME

10:35 - 11:35am

#14000

This class focuses on intervals of aerobics, strengthening exercises, balance and core work. It is appropriate for beginners and advanced participants. It culminates with a cool down and stretching pose.

DATES DAY 1/10 - 3/21 1/12 - 3/23

Sun T

TIME

11:00am - Noon 5:30 - 6:30pm

WASHTENAW.ORG/PARKS | PARKS@WASHTENAW.ORG | (734) 971-6337

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ANN ARBOR MI PERMIT 111

US POSTAGE PAID

PRE-SORT STANDARD

Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation P.O. Box 8645 Ann Arbor, MI 48107-8645

CONTACT INFORMATION Independence Lake Park (734) 449-4437 Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center (734) 971-6355 Pierce Lake Golf Course and Park (734) 475-5858 Rolling Hills Park and Water Park (734) 484-9676

Administrative Offices 2230 Platt Road (at County Farm Park) Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 8645 Ann Arbor, MI 48107 tel (734) 971-6337 fax (734) 971-6386

Visit us online for photos, maps, info, and detailed directions at washtenaw.org/parks Photo Credit: Bryan Mitchell