Linden County Park | Flint

Linden County Park is a 135-acre public recreational space situated in Linden, Michigan, and managed by Genesee County Parks. Nestled amidst woodlands, lakefront views, and open green spaces, the park is a cherished year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers. It offers a balance of natural beauty and recreational infrastructure, making it suitable for both quiet retreats and active recreation.

Location and Natural Setting

Located at 15349 S. Linden Road, just east of downtown Linden, the park is bordered by Byram Lake, providing access to lakefront vistas and water activities. The natural topography of the area includes gentle hills, dense tree coverage, grassy open fields, and a well-maintained beach. This combination of elements makes the park ideal for hiking, picnicking, and seasonal events.

Main Features and Amenities

Clover Beach

A popular feature of the park, Clover Beach is located on Byram Lake and is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The beach is supervised during designated hours with lifeguards on duty (typically in season).

It features a barrier-free walkway from the parking lot to the sand, ensuring accessibility for people with mobility challenges.

The beach area includes shaded picnic tables, outdoor showers, and changing facilities.

Picnic Shelters and Pavilions

The park offers two large picnic pavilions, which can be rented for events like family reunions, company picnics, and community gatherings.

Each pavilion is equipped with:

Multiple picnic tables

Charcoal grills

Nearby water and restroom facilities

Pavilion 1 is particularly notable for having an electric hookup, ADA accessibility, and paved access paths.

The pavilions are typically available for rent from May 1 through October 31.

Playgrounds and Family Areas

There are multiple children’s play structures suitable for toddlers and elementary-aged kids.

Swings, slides, and climbing apparatuses are spread out in shaded zones.

Surrounding these are ample open lawns for casual games like frisbee, catch, or kite-flying.

Sports Courts and Fields

Tennis courts: Open to the public and also used for pickleball, with courts marked for dual use.

Softball/baseball diamonds: Available for casual or league play.

Basketball half-court and volleyball court are present for additional recreational options.

Informal soccer and football play areas are found in the larger open fields.

Trail System and Natural Exploration

Linden County Park Loop Trail

A 2.0-mile loop that blends paved and unpaved paths, ideal for walking, jogging, and nature viewing.

The trail weaves through woods, over gentle slopes, and around open fields, offering visitors glimpses of local flora and fauna.

Dog-friendly (leashes required) and equipped with trash stations and benches along the way.

The trail is connected with shorter spurs, including:

A 1.5-mile wooded nature loop

A central biking trail, suitable for beginner to moderate-level riders

Winter Activities

The park transforms in the colder months into a winter activity hub:

Sledding & Tobogganing

The west side of the park includes a gently graded hill ideal for sledding, offering fun for children and adults alike.

Snow fences and signage are added during winter months to ensure safety.

Cross-Country Skiing

Trails within the park are groomed when snow conditions are favorable.

The terrain is suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is permitted in designated areas of the park, provided there is at least 3 inches of snow cover and frozen ground.

This activity is regulated and restricted to ensure harmony with other winter users.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Parking: Ample parking spaces are available, including designated handicap parking located near pavilions, trails, and the beach.

Restrooms: Modern, regularly cleaned restrooms are open year-round near the pavilions and main trail access points.

ADA Compliance: Paths are paved and gently sloped. Key areas like beach access, Pavilion 1, and restrooms are fully wheelchair accessible.

Park Management and Rules

Managed by Genesee County Parks and Recreation, which maintains the grounds, enforces safety regulations, and oversees rentals.

Alcohol is typically prohibited unless a special use permit is acquired.

Fires are allowed only in provided grills or fire pits.

Dogs must be leashed at all times and owners are expected to clean up after them.

Community and Events

Linden County Park serves as a gathering place for both small communities and larger regional events. Popular uses include:

Summer day camps and scout outings

Charity walks and runs

School field trips focused on ecology and conservation

Private celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, and reunions

Local organizations occasionally sponsor educational workshops, such as birdwatching, tree identification, or conservation awareness.

Summary

Linden County Park is a vibrant and multi-functional park that offers seasonal activities and amenities catering to individuals, families, and community groups. With its lakefront beach, accessible trails, sports areas, and scenic woodlands, it provides a relaxing yet active environment year-round. Its thoughtful layout, well-maintained facilities, and natural beauty make it an ideal location for both leisure and recreation in the heart of Genesee County.