Please keep in mind that construction is still underway in certain areas as we continue to make improvements.
Find information on the plans for the five park units, the anticipated construction schedule, partnerships, funding model and more on the project page.
A new state park is coming to Flint, and it will energize the riverfront, create more diverse recreation opportunities and bring economic benefits to the city. The 230-acre state park, which will be located along a 3-mile stretch of the Flint River and a section of Swartz Creek, will be Michigan’s 104th state park and the very first in Genesee County.
The park will bring together local existing parks and natural areas, creating an outdoor experience of five park units - Chevy Commons, Mott Park Recreation Area, Riverbank Park, Vietnam Veterans Park and Happy Hollow Nature Area - and connector trails.
Genesee County Parks manages and maintains the site in partnership with the DNR, which provides high-level oversight. A permanent endowment was established through a generous collaboration with the C.S. Mott Foundation.
Events permits
For information about renting or holding events at the new state park, contact Zachary Neithercut, administrative and reservations specialist for Genessee County Parks, at 810-767-9696 or zneithercut@gcparks.org
You can send questions and feedback to ParksAndRecreation@Michigan.gov. Please put "FLINT STATE PARK" in the subject line.
The new state park stretches along the scenic banks of both the Flint River and Swartz Creek.
The park's layout resembles a Y-shape – sized at approximately 3 miles east to west and more than 1.5 miles north to south – offering ample space for exploration and recreation.
You may not possess or consume an alcoholic beverage or intoxicating beverage at any time in the park (except with prior written approval) per Genessee County Parks Rules Section P910607.
The Riverbank Park unit has an amphitheater that is used for public events and more. For information about renting or holding events, contact Zachary Neithercut, administrative and reservations specialist for Genessee County Parks, at 810-767-9696 or zneithercut@gcparks.org
The Vietnam Veterans Park unit features a boating access site on the Flint River, while paddlers can find a dedicated canoe and kayak launch in the Mott Park Recreation Area.
The open spaces of the Mott Park Recreation Area unit are popular for cross-country skiing.
There's an 18-hole disc golf course in the Mott Park Recreation Area unit.
Fishing is a popular activity along the Flint River and Swartz Creek.
There are multiple platforms along the Flint River that serve as fishing piers.
Paved paths run throughout the park, with the exception of Happy Hollow, which offers a natural surface trail.
Metal detecting is allowed by permit only. Please contact Genesee County Parks.
Paddling is a popular activity along the Flint River and Swartz Creek. The Hamilton and Fabri dam structures have been removed and replaced with natural-acting riffles (or clusters of boulders along the river’s edge) in six key locations.
Pets are allowed along the riverbank. Pets must always be on a six-foot leash and under an owner’s immediate control. All pet waste must be properly disposed of in trash receptacles.
There are several picnic areas throughout the park, including one in Riverbank Park (it's accessible), Chevy Commons and Mott Park Recreation Area units.
There is a play structure in the Riverbank Park Unit. As part of enhancements taking place through 2026, the existing play structure will be replaced with an accessible playground. In addition, a new signature play garden on the east end of Chevy Commons where the Swartz Creek drains into the Flint River (with Atwood Stadium in the background) will be installed.
There are several paved paths throughout the park.
The park is located along a 3-mile stretch of the Flint River and section of Swartz Creek.
