Oakland County Parks Marks 60 Years of Service With Expansion Plans

Oakland County Parks hits 60 years old this week. The system has spent the past six decades protecting wild spaces and running programs across Michigan. It spans over 7,000 acres with 17 sites that welcome close to 2 million visitors per year.

"For 60 years, OCP has been enriching the lives of residents and we plan to continue to do so for generations to come," Parks Director Chris Ward said according to the Oakland Times. "The parks system continues to grow and flourish with new partnerships, providing all residents with opportunities to connect with nature and boost their mental and physical health close to home."

The system started in 1966, four decades after Manley Davis gave 169 acres to create a park. Michigan's Public Act 261 of 1965 made a county-owned park system possible under Park and Recreation Commissions.

Land purchases followed. Waterford Oaks County Park was bought in 1967, while the 197-acre Paradise Campground and Beach turned into Groveland Oaks County Park in 1968. The 700-acre Tudor Hills Gun Club and Game Preserve got renamed Addison Oaks County Park that same year.

In 1976, the system opened Michigan's first waterpark at Waterford Oaks. A BMX track was built from excavated soil and has since hosted world championship competitions along with national events.

Holly Oaks ORV Park opened in 2020 as a year-round spot on what used to be sand and gravel mines. It runs through a state-county partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

The system gained 560 acres through partnerships in 2025. Another 640 acres might come through proposed partnerships. By 2030, nearly three-quarters of county residents will live within three miles of a county-funded park.

Three honorary ambassadors were named: Nancy Quarles, J. David VanderVeen, and Sue Wells. A Birthday Bash in July will include historical programming and exhibits. Details can be found at OaklandCountyParks.com.