Parks play a very important part in the overall quality of life for the Davison community and visitors. The purpose of the Parks and Recreation Department is to plan, acquire, and develop recreation facilities, parks and open space areas to help enrich the lives of the persons living in our community and to meet the future needs as the township grows.
Our parks system offers walking and biking trails, swimming, educational, historical, memorial, gardens, and sporting facilities.
Keep up to date by following our community and events calendar by clicking the events tab on the left.
Transaction Policies – Click here to learn about DTPR Waivers, Refund Policy, Credit Card Transaction Fees, Cancellations and Inclement Weather Cancellations.
Donations – Click on the word Donations. Once on CivicRec site go to “All Activities”. Then scroll to the very bottom to see “General Donations”.
Join our instructor, Stanette Amy – the granddaughter of an Ojibwe medicine woman, Keewaydinoquay, to learn traditional, herbal medicine and philosophy. Keewaydinoquay was apprenticed to her own herbal teacher in Northern Michigan. She also attended the University of Michigan and did her PhD work in Ethnobotany (the use of plants by indigenous peoples) and taught at the universities of Michigan and Wisconsin. Stanette is grateful for the nearly 40 years of training she received from her grandmother and is excited to share her knowledge about Foraging Native Plants for food and medicine!
Tuesday, March 4: Medicine Bags
Tuesday, April 1: Foraging 101
Tuesday, May 6: Pine Needle Push Pin
Tuesday, June 3: Cedar Lemon Balm
Tuesday, July 1: Medicine Bags
Tuesday, August 5: Sweetgrass
Tuesday, September 2: Foraging and Native American Medicines
Time: 6:00pm-7:30pm
Where: Robert Williams Nature and Historical Learning Center – Karen Miller (10069 E. Atherton Rd. Davison)
Age: 16 years +
Fee:Residents: $15 per person
Non-Residents: $17 per person
*Pre-registration is required. Minimum must be met 1 week prior to event date. Priced per person per class. Each class will receive a take home item. Cost per class.
Do you think you need to be flexible to participate in yoga? Yoga has many more benefits like increasing strength & balance and reducing stress. This class is a gentle and mindful practice that connects your movement with your breath. Great for all levels that encourages you to move at your own pace.
Do you think you need to be flexible to participate in yoga? Yoga has many more benefits like increasing strength & balance and reducing stress. This class is a gentle and mindful practice that connects your movement with your breath. Great for all levels that encourages you to move at your own pace.
Get ready for the ultimate ladies' night out! Join us for an exciting evening of Bunco, laughter, and friendly competition. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, all are welcome to join in the fun! Registration includes light refreshments, prizes, and everything you need to play. So, come prepared to socialize, roll the dice, and enjoy a night with fellow ladies looking to have a blast at this exclusive Ladies' Only Party! Cost includes the entire session.
DatesTheme
Friday, April 4Decades of Fun
Friday, May 2Pajama Party
Friday, June 13Neon Night
Friday, July 11Red, White, & Bunco
Friday, August 1Bling & Sparkle
Time: 6pm – 7:30pm
Where: Karen Miller Event Center
Cost: $50 Resident/$58 Non-Resident for entire session
Ages: Ladies 13+ (18 and under must be accompanied by an adult)
Pre-registration is required. A minimum must be met 1 week prior to the event date. Space is limited.
Do you think you need to be flexible to participate in yoga? Yoga has many more benefits like increasing strength & balance and reducing stress. This class is a gentle and mindful practice that connects your movement with your breath. Great for all levels that encourages you to move at your own pace.
🌿 Native Plant Sale – Saturday, June 21! 🌿 Join us at the Williams Property for our 2025 Native Plant Sale this Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM! Support local ecosystems and beautify your yard with Michigan-native wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs. Native plants help pollinators, conserve water, and thrive without extra fuss!
📍 Location: Williams Property (10455 E. Atherton Rd) 🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM 🌼 First come, first served – don’t miss out!
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there’s something for everyone. Come early for the best selection!
This is the perfect class to step onto the dance floor with confidence! Grab a partner or friend and learn the fundamentals of ballroom dance through fun, easy-to-follow choreography.
You'll explore a variety of styles, including the Waltz, Cha-Cha, Swing, Foxtrot, Salsa, Tango, and more, while mastering basic steps and turns.
No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to dance!
All levels are welcome.
Date: The last Friday of each month
FRI | April 25
FRI | May 30
FRI | June 27
FRI | July 25
FRI | August 29
Cost: Residents $20 | Non-Residents $22 per person ($40/$44 per couple)
Time: 6:00-7:00 pm
Ages: 16+
Location: Kitchen School (4010 S State Rd, Davison, MI. 48423)
Join our instructor, Stanette Amy – the granddaughter of an Ojibwe medicine woman, Keewaydinoquay, to learn traditional, herbal medicine and philosophy. Keewaydinoquay was apprenticed to her own herbal teacher in Northern Michigan. She also attended the University of Michigan and did her PhD work in Ethnobotany (the use of plants by indigenous peoples) and taught at the universities of Michigan and Wisconsin. Stanette is grateful for the nearly 40 years of training she received from her grandmother and is excited to share her knowledge about Foraging Native Plants for food and medicine!
Tuesday, March 4: Medicine Bags
Tuesday, April 1: Foraging 101
Tuesday, May 6: Pine Needle Push Pin
Tuesday, June 3: Cedar Lemon Balm
Tuesday, July 1: Medicine Bags
Tuesday, August 5: Sweetgrass
Tuesday, September 2: Foraging and Native American Medicines
Time: 6:00pm-7:30pm
Where: Robert Williams Nature and Historical Learning Center – Karen Miller (10069 E. Atherton Rd. Davison)
Age: 16 years +
Fee:Residents: $15 per person
Non-Residents: $17 per person
*Pre-registration is required. Minimum must be met 1 week prior to event date. Priced per person per class. Each class will receive a take home item. Cost per class.
Davison Township Parks have many buildings, pavilions and spaces that are available to rent. If you are interested in renting a space in one of our parks, please download and review the following documents:
To see all rental facilities or to make a reservation, visit the Facility Rentals Page on the Davison Township Registration Site.
To reserve a rental space call or visit the Davison Township Parks and Recreation Office (810-214-1810) during office hours (Mon – Fri from 9am – 12pm & 1 – 5pm) or book ONLINE FACITLITY RENTAL.
A signed Rental Agreement must accompany the security deposit at the time of reservation.
Cancellations: A full refund of the Security Deposit will be issued up to 60 days prior to the original scheduled rental date minus a $25 Processing Fee. No refund of the Security Deposit will be issued within 60 days prior to the rental date.
This is the perfect pavilion for a small gathering. Placed right behind the Davison Township Municipal Center at the head of the Black Creek Trail. Grill available. No restrooms or electricity. Seating Capacity 24 people. 4 Picnic Tables. A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $100 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $75; Non-Residents $125; Non-Profits $60 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
This picturesque Gazebo is perfect for a small wedding ceremony and a beautiful background for formal photo shoots. Located right in front of the Davison Township Municipal Center in the Veterans Court of Honor. No restrooms or electricity. No seating available. A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $100 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $50; Non-Residents $100; Non-Profits $60 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Perfect pavilion for any dog lover. Great for Dog Birthday Parties and more. Dog Park is still open to the public during rentals.
Seasonal Restrooms available May - September. Portable Restroom available October - April. Electricity Yes. Seating Capacity Approx. 48 people. 8 Picnic Tables. A full day rental is defined as Dawn to Dusk.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $100 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $75; Non-Residents $125; Non-Profits $60 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Perfect pavilion for any dog lover. Great for Dog Birthday Parties and more. Located inside the large dog area.
Seasonal Restrooms available May - September. Portable Restroom available October - April. Electricity Yes. Seating Capacity Approx. 24 people. 4 Picnic Tables. A full day rental is defined as Dawn to Dusk.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $100 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $50; Non-Residents $100; Non-Profits $40 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
NOTICE: Lake Callis Recreation Complex will be under renovation June 23 - September 2025 for the MDNR Spark Grant Project. The Volleyball Pavilion, Volleyball Courts, Volleyball Parking lot and Pavilions D & F will be CLOSED for the 2025 season. All other amenities will remain open as normal.
The Lake Callis Grand Pavilion is great for any large function. Wedding reception, company picnic, special event, family reunion, and more. Grand Pavilion includes multiple grills, electricity, 76 - 6' picnic tables, with capacity for approx. 456 people, a stage. Located conveniently next to the restrooms and the Beach Treats Concession Stand. The Grand Pavilion may rented in smaller sections ranging from 6 picnic tables with capacity of approximately 36 people to 14 tables with capacity for approximately 84 people and multiple other combinations to fit your needs.
Grill available in all sections but section 1. Public restrooms and electricity available. Seating Capacity 36 - 456 people. 6 - 76 Picnic Tables. A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $50 - $250 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $75 - $500; Non-Residents $125 - 550; Non-Profits $60 - 400 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Facility Rentals DO NOT include park entry fees for renters or guests. Rentals are available Memorial Day - Labor Day.
No Pets, Smoking, or Alcohol allowed on park grounds.
NOTICE: Lake Callis Recreation Complex will be under renovation June 23 - September 2025 for the MDNR Spark Grant Project. The Volleyball Pavilion, Volleyball Courts, Volleyball Parking lot and Pavilions D & F will be CLOSED for the 2025 season. All other amenities will remain open as normal.
Beautiful private location for a wedding, family reunion, birthday party, open house and more. The Tiki Hut and Private Beach area includes: 8 - 6' picnic tables, with seating capacity for approximately 48 people, 2 large grills, electricity, private beach and swimming area. Conveniently located by the observation dock, handicap portable restrooms and handicap parking. Located on the east end of the beach area.
A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $100 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $175; Non-Residents $225; Non-Profits $140 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Facility Rentals DO NOT include park entry fees for renters or guests. Rentals are available Memorial Day - Labor Day.
No Pets, Smoking, or Alcohol allowed on park grounds.
NOTICE: Lake Callis Recreation Complex will be under renovation June 23 - September 2025 for the MDNR Spark Grant Project. The Volleyball Pavilion, Volleyball Courts, Volleyball Parking lot and Pavilions D & F will be CLOSED for the 2025 season. All other amenities will remain open as normal.
Perfect pavilion for a day at Lake Callis. Located right next to the volleyball courts. 10 picnic tables with seating capacity for approximately 60 people, 1 large grill, Electricity and walking distance to the Grand Pavilion Public Restrooms.
A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $75 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $100; Non-Residents $150; Non-Profits $60 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Facility Rentals DO NOT include park entry fees for renters or guests. Rentals are available Memorial Day - Labor Day. No Pets, Smoking, or Alcohol allowed on park grounds.
NOTICE: Lake Callis Recreation Complex will be under renovation June 23 - September 2025 for the MDNR Spark Grant Project. The Volleyball Pavilion, Volleyball Courts, Volleyball Parking lot and Pavilions D & F will be CLOSED for the 2025 season. All other amenities will remain open as normal.
Lake Callis offers 6 Small Pavilions scatter throughout the park. 3 Near the Dash 'N' Splash Pad, 1 by the Volleyball Courts, 1 by the Pirate Ship Playground on the beach and 1 tucked away on the hill away from it all. These pavilions are perfect for a shaded area for you day at the beach, a small birthday party, family reunion and more. Pavilions include 4 picnic tables with seating capacity for approximately 24 people, 1 grill. No electricity. Walking distance to the Grand Pavilion Public Restrooms.
A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $50 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $75; Non-Residents $125; Non-Profits $60 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Facility Rentals DO NOT include park entry fees for renters or guests. Rentals are available Memorial Day - Labor Day. No Pets, Smoking, or Alcohol allowed on park grounds.
Kitchen School House is located at 4010 S. State Rd. in Davison. Kitchen School is a restored school house dating back to the mid 1800s. The building is an open concept floor plan with a seating capacity for approximately 49 people. This venue space includes tables and chairs, outdoor pavilion, restrooms, and electricity.
A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $250 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $200; Non-Residents $250; Non-Profits $100 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Alcohol Permit $100 with Liability Insurance Rider for $500,000.
The Karen Miller Event Center is located on our 100-acre park, the Robert Williams Nature and Historical Learning Center. 10069 E. Atherton Rd., Davison. The property was donated to the township by Robert and Jill Williams with a few buildings already onsite. One of those buildings was a private home, that has been converted into a rental space and contains most of the amenities that an average home would contain, making it the ideal space for a family reunion, business meeting, open house, shower, etc.. Tables and chairs for 50 people are provided with the rental, as well as multiple picnic tables outside for outdoor seating.
A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $250 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $300; Non-Residents $350; Non-Profits $200 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Alcohol Permit $100 with Liability Insurance Rider for $500,000.
The Kurt and Marge Soper Nature Center is an open concept, 1,200 square foot space located at 9489 E. Atherton Rd., Davison. It was recently added to the west side of the Williams Property off Atherton Rd in 2017. The seating capacity is 49 people with tables and chairs included with the rental.
A full day rental is defined at 9am - 9pm.
Rental Rates:
Refundable Security Deposit $250 (Due at the time of reservation)
Rental Fee: Davison Residents $200; Non-Residents $250; Non-Profits $100 (Due 14 day prior to event date.)
Alcohol Permit $100 with Liability Insurance Rider for $500,000.
Click on the link. Once on CivicRec site go to "All Activities". Then scroll to the very bottom to see "General Donations". Add zero dollars to cart at checkout you will be able to enter your amount. Thank you!
Davison Township Park The township park was developed with the idea to inspire and memorialize our Veterans. The park was built with donations from area businesses and individuals in conjunction with the Township Board. The Hank Graff Gazebo is the perfect spot for weddings, graduation pictures or a quiet place to enjoy the beautiful native plantings. If you would like to be a part of the park, please contact the Davison Township Parks & Rec. Department. All donations are tax deductible.
Davison Township Park & Veterans Court of Honor 1280 N. Irish Road Davison, MI 48423
Veterans Court of Honor
Davison Township Park If you live or have previously lived in Davison Township, Richfield Township or the City of Davison, and have served or are now serving in one of the branches of services, National Guard or Reserves your name can be included in the Veteran’s Court of Honor. There is no cost involved.
Please submit the following information to Lisa Minto 1280 N. Irish Rd., Davison, MI 48423
Veteran’s name
Current address
Branch of service (Army, Navy, etc.)
Dates served
Armed conflict (if any)
Submitted by
Relationship
Contact phone number
Davison Township Park & Veterans Court of Honor 1280 N. Irish Road Davison, MI 48423
Lake Callis Recreation Complex The Lake Callis Recreation Complex, named after the late Bob Callis who raised funds to purchase the property located at 1152 N. Gale Rd., is 40 acres of recreational fun acquired through the efforts of the Davison Township Board of Trustees, numerous volunteers and Davison Township DDA funds. This is a seasonal pay-to-use park which includes an 18 acre swimming lake with a large beach area, changing rooms, 6 NCAA rated sand volleyball courts with lighting, 100’ x 100’ dry deck Dash ‘n’ Splash pad, Beach Treats concession stand, Randall V. Steward Grand Pavilion with stage and electricity, 7 smaller pavilion, Tiki Hut with electricity and private beach area, scenic wetland trail, observation dock, fishing area, gaga pit, paddle board rental and many programs and activities year round. The pavilions, tiki hut, observation deck and volleyball courts are all available for rent or free to use based on availability.
Lake Callis Recreation Complex 1152 N. Gale Road Davison, MI 48423
2024 Summer Season – Hours of Operation Memorial Day – Labor Day Sunday – Saturday 9am – 7pm (Weather Dependent)
Holiday Rates for the 2024 Season will be implemented on Memorial Day Weekend (May 25th, 26th & 27th), Independence Day (July 4th, 5th, 6th & 7th) and Labor Day Weekend (August 31st, September 1st & 2nd).
The Black Creek Nature Trail is a paved, non-motorized trail that begins at the Davison Township Municipal Center on 1280 N. Irish Road and runs east along the Black Creek to join the Abernathy Park Trail in the City of Davison. The trail is an ongoing project with sidewalks being added that will connect the Township to the City of Davison at various points around the Davison area. Parking is also available in the Dog Park and Abernathy Park. The trail is open from dawn to dusk year-round.
Black Creek Trail – Trail head 1280 N. Irish Road Davison, MI 48423
The Davison Area Environmental Team in conjunction with area volunteers and community businesses provided an off-leash dog park for the community to let their dogs exercise and play in a controlled environment under the supervision of their owner. The park is located adjacent to the Black Creek Nature Trail at 1285 N. Gale Road on three acres of property, between Davison Road and Court Street, just south of the railroad tracks. It is the first of its kind in Genesee County with a small dog area and an all dog area. There are fire hydrant watering stations, a dog bone walk, pavilions and a dog house entry way—sure to thrill your furry friend. The pavilions are supplied with electricity and can be rented. The park is open from dawn to dusk year-round.
This 100-acre park is located at 10069 Atherton Rd., (West Entrance – 9489 E. Atherton Rd) just west of State Rd. The original parcel was donated to Davison Township by Robert and Jill Williams to be used for the enrichment of the Davison community to preserve nature, history and provide educational opportunities for residents.
The Williams site houses a number of buildings. On Williams Parkway, the first building on the left is designated for Davison Community Schools educational programming. The Davison Township Historical Museum is the next building on the right and houses many artifacts from early families and businesses that helped to grow the Davison area. The last building or Karen Miller Event Center at the end of the parkway houses the Department of Parks and Recreation events, and outdoor education programs. (See DTParks.org for upcoming programs) This building is also available for rent for parties and special events. In 2017 Davison Township received two grants, one from Land and Water and one from the DNR Trust to enhance this property. With those grants a pavilion and restroom facility were added onto the Karen Miller Event Center and a beautiful bridge was constructed connecting the trail systems form the east to west side of the property. A beautiful classroom and parking lot were also added to the west side of the property. The Karen Miller Event Center and the Classroom are both available for private rentals.
The non-motorized trail system consists of approximately 3 miles of beautiful limestone trails that traverse the hilly terrain and allow you to enjoy its amazing beauty.
In 2022, Davison Twp Parks received a large donation from Cooper Companies and a grant from the Davison Community Fund to install the Cooper Low Ropes Course. This is located along the trail Robin Run. The course has 12 different elements from a zig zag rock wall to hanging tires to climb across. The course was built by Obstacle Builders LLC out of Arizona. Adding in a Low Ropes Course will aid in Youth Development, Community Building Activities, Health and Wellness, as well as enhancing Outdoor Recreation. The course will be open to the public to use at their own risk but will also be available for private rentals for Team Building.
List of Facilities Karen Miller Event Center – East Entrance Davison Historical Museum – Website – East Entrance The Nest – (South House) – East Entrance Kurt and Marge Soper Nature Center – West Entrance (9489 E. Atherton Rd., Davison, MI 48423)
Robert Williams Nature and Historical Learning Center (East Entrance) 10069 Atherton Road Davison, MI 48423
Kitchen School House – Zirnhelt Park Kitchen School, located on the corner of Bristol and State Roads in Davison Township, was named for Silas Kitchen one of the area’s homesteaders.
Clues such as the dimensions of lumber and types of nails used made it possible for us to date the building to sometime between 1860 to 1870.
From its beginning, Kitchen School operated under the Rate Bill System for its funding. This system which was authorized by the state legislature in 1839 allowed district children fees or rates in proportion to the number of students and the number of days they attend school.
The building was restored to its 1940s appearance by Davison Township and many volunteers. The building is currently used for field trips, meetings, private rentals and special events.
To reserve this building or to schedule a tour please contact Davison Township Parks and Recreation.
Kitchen School House 4010 S. State Street Davison, MI 48423
Looking for some meaningful volunteer work? Davison Township Parks Department is looking for you!!!
Whether its answering phones and making copies, helping with a special event, teaching a class or working on the many beautiful flowerbeds throughout our township parks, there are a variety of volunteer opportunities waiting for you.
If your school, club, or business has a volunteer hour requirement, or if your family and friends just like getting out and doing things together, there is no better place than Davison Township to enjoy the volunteer experience
By joining the Davison Township volunteer team, you can learn a new skill, meet new friends and make a positive contribution to the health and welfare of our community.
So make a difference in your life and in the lives of your friends and neighbors by signing up as a Parks volunteer today! If you would like to suggest a volunteer opportunity that fits your organization’s mission, please contact the volunteer coordinator, Deanna Barbe at dbarbe@davisontwp-mi.org or by calling (810) 214-1810
Here are just a few of the many volunteer opportunities available with Davison Township Parks and Recreation Department.
