Greenways
A key principle identified in the parks plan is the desirability of establishing greenways within Ottawa County. A greenway is linear open space system often established along a natural or man-made corridor that has value in linking parks, natural areas, and cultural sites with each other and with populated areas. In Ottawa County, a primary goal is to establish a connected network of park and open space lands along the Grand, Pigeon, and Macatawa river corridors and along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Grand River Greenway
As Michigan’s longest river, the Grand River has a rich natural and cultural history. To help conserve this resource, Ottawa County Parks manages over 2400 acres of land with over 13 miles of river frontage and is actively expanding protected lands and public access to them. A long range goal is to provide a paved greenway trail linking these properties and adjacent communities. Find more information at grandrivergreenway.org.
Current Projects
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Ottawa County Parks recently acquired nearly 185 acres from Grand Rapids Gravel Company, a major milestone in expanding the Bend Area in Georgetown Township. This third and largest phase of land acquisition will bring the park to approximately 606 acres, including more than 2.5 miles of lake frontage. The expansion lays the groundwork for the future Idema Explorers Trail and will provide enhanced recreational access in eastern Ottawa County. Public access is expected by spring 2026. Read more
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A major milestone in West Michigan’s trail network has been achieved with the completion of the Bayou Segment of the Idema Explorers Trail in Robinson Township. Read more
- Construction of the first three miles of the Bass River Segment is planned for 2025. This phase will connect Riverside Park in Robinson Township to the Bass River State Recreation Area in Allendale Township. Read more
- Discover the incredible journey of Ottawa Sands County Park in this short film by director Scott Vandenberg. From its unique acquisition to ongoing conservation efforts and accessibility enhancements, this story showcases the dedication and collaboration behind a truly remarkable space along the Grand River Greenway.
- The OCPRC collaborated with partners on the 2025 Grand River Coastal Corridor Conservation Report
Other News
Pigeon River Greenway
The Pigeon River is located in west-central Ottawa County and runs roughly 12 miles through three townships before discharging into Lake Michigan. Current protected lands include over 600 acres of wetlands and forests with many miles of multipurpose trails and access to the river for fishing and kayaking.
Completed Projects
Macatawa River Greenway
This river runs through southern Ottawa County emptying into Lake Macatawa in Holland. Heavily influenced by agriculture throughout its history, this river has recently become the focus of improvement efforts. Working along with many partners, Ottawa County Parks has acquired and restored lands within the watershed with the goals of improving water quality, flood storage capacity, wildlife habitat, and providing quality outdoor recreation opportunities.
Lake Michigan Coastal Greenway
Lake Michigan and its associated freshwater dunes are Ottawa County’s most unique and valuable natural resource. Seven county parks, three state parks as well as township and city parks provide residents and visitors access to sandy beaches, massive parabolic sand dunes, and mature beech-maple-hemlock forests. Ottawa County parks itself offers over 1.5 miles of shoreline open for public use and enjoyment.
