Kent County's park system started with 30 acres in Nelson Township
Gordon Park began as 30 acres acquired for a highway in 1924, became Kent County's first park property, and drew an estimated 50,000 visits in 1930.
Kent County’s park system began almost by accident in Nelson Township. In 1924, the county acquired 30 acres from William Gordon while arranging land for a new highway. Motor travel was growing, and roadside parks and simple tourist camps were in demand. County leaders decided that May to turn the extra ground into Gordon Park.
There is a useful distinction in the county’s history. Gordon was the first land purchased and set aside for the park system, but Townsend Park opened to the public first. Gordon saw informal use in 1925 while the highway was still under construction. Once the road was finished, the county added a well, restrooms, fire pits, benches, and tables. By 1928, crowds sometimes exceeded the park’s room. The county estimated 50,000 visits in 1930.
Newer parks with lakes and river access eventually pulled visitors elsewhere. Gordon became a quieter picnic stop, which is much of its appeal now. It has open tree cover, a playground, picnic areas, and a connection across Northland Drive to the Fred Meijer White Pine State Trail. One small roadside parcel in Nelson Township became the starting point for a county system that now reaches across Kent County.
Where to see it
Gordon Park, 17150 Northland Drive near Sand Lake; open seasonally from May through October.
Sources
Last reviewed against the listed sources: July 12, 2026.