Hessel Park | Champaign Urbana

Hessel Park is a well-established and popular community park located in Champaign, Illinois, covering approximately 27 acres. It provides a variety of recreational, social, and nature-oriented amenities designed to serve people of all ages and interests, making it a valuable green space within the city.

History and Location

Hessel Park was created in 1918 and named after J. Fred Hessel, a local real estate developer who contributed significantly to the growth of Champaign’s neighborhoods. The park is situated at 1401 Grandview Drive, easily accessible from surrounding residential areas and near the University of Illinois campus, making it a convenient recreational spot for students, families, and residents alike.

Park Layout and Natural Features

The park’s layout thoughtfully balances open green spaces with wooded areas and landscaped gardens. It is noted for its extensive tree walk, which features over 50 species of trees, providing an educational and tranquil experience for visitors interested in botany or simply enjoying nature. The green areas provide ample space for picnics, casual sports, or relaxing outdoors.

Recreational Facilities and Amenities

Splash Pad:
One of the park’s standout attractions, the splash pad operates seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It features colorful, animal-themed water jets and sprays designed to entertain children safely and actively during warm months.

Playground:
The playground caters to toddlers and older children, offering a variety of equipment such as slides, climbing structures, and swings. The surface beneath the equipment is made of poured-in-place synthetic material, ensuring safety and accessibility for children of all abilities.

Walking Path:
Encircling the park is a paved walking path approximately 0.6 miles long, ideal for walking, jogging, running, or biking. This path allows visitors to enjoy scenic views of the park while getting exercise.

Sports Courts and Fields:
The park is well-equipped for active recreation with:

Six pickleball courts, which have grown in popularity recently.

Four lighted tennis courts, available for both casual and competitive play.

One volleyball court.

A non-lighted ball field suitable for baseball, softball, or other sports.

Picnic Areas and Pavilions:
Scattered across the park are multiple picnic tables and barbecue grills, inviting families and groups to gather for meals or celebrations. The park also offers four covered pavilions, which can be reserved for private events such as birthday parties, reunions, or community gatherings.

Restroom Facilities:
Restrooms are available seasonally, with brick facilities open from mid-April to mid-October and portable toilets provided during the off-season to ensure visitor convenience year-round.

Art Installation:
A notable artistic feature in the park is the "Kwami" sculpture by Ray Katz, which adds cultural interest and aesthetic value to the landscape.

Accessibility and Parking

Hessel Park is designed to be accessible, with paved pathways, ADA-compliant playground surfaces, and parking spaces accommodating visitors with disabilities. Parking is available both along Grandview Drive and in a dedicated lot at the park’s north end. Recent improvements have focused on enhancing parking capacity and safety.

Hours and Rules

The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Sports courts with lighting close at 11:00 PM for noise and neighborhood consideration. Visitors are encouraged to follow park rules that promote safety and cleanliness to ensure a pleasant experience for all.

Community Engagement and Events

Hessel Park serves as a hub for community events such as summer concerts, festivals, and outdoor activities organized by the Champaign Park District. The covered pavilions are popular rental spaces for private celebrations, available through advance reservation.

Summary

Hessel Park is a vibrant, family-friendly destination combining nature, recreation, and community gathering spaces. Whether for active sports, relaxing walks, children’s play, or social events, the park provides well-maintained and diverse facilities that enhance the quality of life for Champaign residents and visitors. Its mix of natural beauty, recreational options, and community-oriented features make it a cherished asset in the local park system.