Facilities

History
Located at the west end of First Street on Lake Michigan, this is the largest City-owned recreation area. There is a boat launch into the Manistee River near Lake Michigan with docks and a fish cleaning station (rates: $10 daily; or you can purchase a seasonal sticker for $50 - seasonal sticker covers all launch facilities in the City of Manistee).  A picnic area with pavilions overlooks Lake Michigan and a short fishing pier. There is a large lakefront beach with play equipment, volleyball courts and restrooms. In 2010 upgrades to the First Street Launch Ramps were made and four of the eight rams are now Universally Accessible.

In adjacent off-beach areas there are two children’s playgrounds, Dog Park, lighted tennis courts, a basketball court, volleyball court and two lighted softball fields with restrooms. There is also some natural area. Adequate parking is available throughout the park.

Grants paid for the construction of softball fields and tennis courts in the mid-1970's. The Lions Club contributed for the construction of several large pavilions (Lions Pavilion Rental). The Rotary Club and local businesses contributed for the construction of a playground, a volleyball court and a basketball court in 1988, and playground additions and a gazebo in 1995. A volunteer group construction and Imagination Stationtm playground in 1995. A two mile Riverwalk from the downtown, constructed in 1994-95 ends at the park. A Master Plan for the park developed in 1992/93 suggests walk/bikeways throughout the park. The area was purchased by the City in 1919. A Coastal Zone Management Grant in 1999 continued the Riverwalk via a sidewalk to the Concession Stand.