Your Government
Our Community
Township Services
1152 N. Gale Road
Davison, MI 48423
Parks Office Hours:
Monday – Friday
9am–12pm and 1–5pm
810-214-1810
Davison Township Park Staff:
Casey Reed – Director
creed@davisontwp-mi.org
Deanna Leddick – Recreation Coordinator /Park Naturalist
dleddick@davisontwp-mi.org
Vanessa McCoy – Recreation Coordinator/Day Camp Supervisor
vmccoy@davisontwp-mi.org
Riley Ferguson – Park Maintenance
rferguson@davisontwp-mi.org
Tyler Gifford – Part-Time Park Maintenance
Shelby Graham – Part-Time Office Assistant
Kimberly Rahmann – Part-Time Museum Assistant
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, skating and sporting facilities.
Keep up to date by following our community and events calendar.
Transaction Policies – Click here to learn about DTPR Waivers, Refund Policy, Credit Card Transaction Fees, Cancellations and Inclement Weather Cancellations.
This calendar may not be up to date. Click here for complete list of events.
| SunSunday | MonMonday | TueTuesday | WedWednesday | ThuThursday | FriFriday | SatSaturday |
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31March 31, 2024
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1April 1, 2024
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2April 2, 2024
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3April 3, 2024●(1 event)
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4April 4, 2024
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5April 5, 2024
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6April 6, 2024
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7April 7, 2024
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8April 8, 2024
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9April 9, 2024
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10April 10, 2024
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11April 11, 2024
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12April 12, 2024●(1 event)
Friday Fundays
Friday Fundays
April 12, 20244:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Friday Fundays Join us after school for these Friday Funday programs! Each program has a craft or activity the children will be doing. * Parents are required to stay with participants. *Pre-registration is required.
Friday, September 1, 2023 Mining Madness Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Soper Center (9489 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, October 27, 2023 Yarn Painting Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, November 3, 2023 Christmas Countdown Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, December 1, 2023 DIY Holiday Wreath Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, January 12, 2024 Coaster Mania Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, January 26, 2024 Squishy Squashy Fidgets Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, February 2, 2024 Bad Art Day Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, March 22, 2023 Candle Painting Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, April 12, 2024 Garden Stepping Stone Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, April 26, 2024 Creating a Veggie Garden Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison) |
13April 13, 2024
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14April 14, 2024
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15April 15, 2024
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16April 16, 2024
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17April 17, 2024
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18April 18, 2024●(1 event)
Little Chefs
Little Chefs
April 18, 20246:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Little Chef
Little Chefs slice, dice and stir their way to delicious treats. Along the way they will learn how to safely prepare and handle food and cook it to perfection. For children ages 6-14. Parents must be in attendance. Please bring a water bottle and plastic container to take home food. This class is not recommended for children with food allergies. Dates: September 28, 2023 – Pizza Palooza October 26, 2023 – Brownie Bites November 16, 2023 – Thanksgiving Pie December 14, 2023 –Gingerbread Cookies January 18, 2024 – Cranberry Orange Muffins February 8, 2024 – Apple Cinnamon Cake March 28, 2023 – Maple Cookies April 18, 2024 – Garden cake
Where: Robert Williams Nature and Historical Learning Center – Karen Miller (10069 E. Atherton Rd. Davison) Age: 6-14 Time: 6-7:30pm Fee: Residents: $20 per person Non-Residents: $22 per person
*Pre-registration is required. Minimum must be met 1 week prior to event date |
19April 19, 2024
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20April 20, 2024●(1 event)
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21April 21, 2024
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22April 22, 2024
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23April 23, 2024
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24April 24, 2024
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25April 25, 2024●(1 event)
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26April 26, 2024●(1 event)
Friday Fundays
Friday Fundays
April 26, 20244:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Friday Fundays Join us after school for these Friday Funday programs! Each program has a craft or activity the children will be doing. * Parents are required to stay with participants. *Pre-registration is required.
Friday, September 1, 2023 Mining Madness Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Soper Center (9489 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, October 27, 2023 Yarn Painting Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, November 3, 2023 Christmas Countdown Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, December 1, 2023 DIY Holiday Wreath Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, January 12, 2024 Coaster Mania Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, January 26, 2024 Squishy Squashy Fidgets Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, February 2, 2024 Bad Art Day Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, March 22, 2023 Candle Painting Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, April 12, 2024 Garden Stepping Stone Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison)
Friday, April 26, 2024 Creating a Veggie Garden Time 4:00 – 5:00pm Ages 5-13 Residents $6 per person Non-Residents $8 per person Location: Karen Miller Event Center (10069 E Atherton Rd., Davison) |
27April 27, 2024
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28April 28, 2024
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29April 29, 2024
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30April 30, 2024●(1 event)
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1May 1, 2024
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2May 2, 2024
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3May 3, 2024●(1 event)
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4May 4, 2024●(1 event)
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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:
Park Rental Agreement, Rental Fees & Maps
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
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.
Park Rentals:
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
FEE SCHEDULES
LAKE CALLIS RECREATION COMPLEX FEES 2023
Lake Callis Map & Grand Pavilion Layout
2023 Summer Season – Hours of Operation
Memorial Day – Labor Day
Sunday – Saturday
9am – 7pm
(Weather Dependent)
Holiday Rates for the 2023 Season will be implemented on Memorial Day Weekend (May 27th, 28th & 29th), 4th of July (July 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th) and Labor Day Weekend (September 2nd, 3rd & 4th).
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.
Davison Area Dog Park
1285 N. Gale Rd
Davison, MI 48423
The park hours of operation are daily from dawn until dusk.
The public restroom hours of operation are seasonal (April 1st – November 1st) from dawn until dusk with automatic locks on the doors.
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
Hours of Operation
Monday – Sunday, dawn to dusk
Park Rental Information (Agreement and Fees)
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.
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