Historic Bridge Park

Location: 14930 Wattles Rd., Battle Creek
Size: 26.7 acres
Pavilion Use Application
View the interactive map.

Amenities

• Restroom
• Pavilion
• Grills
• Picnic Table
• Benches
• Playground
• Boat Launch
• Kayak Launch
• Fishing    
• Hiking
• ADA Accessible
• Water Access

Description

Historic Bridge Park, formerly known as County Park, sits along the Kalamazoo River and Dickinson Creek and can be seen from I-94. The park offers many recreational opportunities such as picnicking, walking/hiking, biking, boating, and wildlife observation. 

The most unique aspect of Historic Bridge Park is its meticulously restored bridges that make up a series of short trails. The restored bridges serve not only as part of a pedestrian path but also as a “hands-on” exhibit of Michigan’s transportation history and the technology of cast iron and steel fabrication. There are five restored bridges within the park and an original tunnel bridge beneath the railroad.

Other noteworthy additions to the park include enhancements provided by Enbridge Energy as part of their EPA settlement following the oil spill in 2010. An investment of approximately $1,000,000 included the addition of a playground, a pavilion, restrooms, a handicap accessible kayak launch, pathways, picnic tables, grills, and interpretive signage. Lastly, parkgoers use the parks as a trailhead to the 5.3 mile Calhoun County Trail.

Accessibility

Four of the five historic bridges are handicap accessible through the boardwalk and pathways. The fifth bridge is only accessible by stairs. In 2012, improvements increased access to park users with the addition of:

• Parking with 2 handicap parking spaces, 55 car parking spaces, and 2 large boat/bus parking spaces 
• ADA compliant restrooms
• Two accessible wood picnic tables
• Accessible launch for canoes and kayaks

Questions

Is there a fee to rent the pavilion at Historic Bridge Park? 
Yes, there is a charge of $50, which allows exclusive use for up to four hours. 

How many people does the pavilion hold? 
The pavilion has two large picnic tables that seat between 20-25 people. 

What amenities does Historic Bridge Park have for my event? 
The pavilion has two large picnic tables, 4 grills close to the pavilion, electricity, and mens and womens restrooms within walking distance. The park also has a playground, river access with an EZ-dock, historic wrought iron bridges, walking trails, and parking.

Historic Bridge Park Brochure