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| Ellis Park in Rowan County NC © Katrena |
Ellis Park, located in the Franklin Township in Rowan County of North Carolina on 3541 Old Mocksville Road, has been supported by community efforts since the site was chosen to serve the people in the surrounding area. As part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's "New Deal" program, the site was first developed as a school site. Some local residents cut trees from their own property and donated the lumber that would become Ellis School in 1933.
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| Free Playgrounds in Rowan County NC © Katrena |
That school building would be transformed into the Ellis Park community building in 1971. Local neighbors of the Ellis Community once again rolled up their sleeves, many volunteering to help refurbish the property into one of Rowan County Parks and Recreation's many community parks.
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| Fun Family Activities in North Carolina © Katrena |
Park admission is free. Some classes and sporting activities are offered for a fee. Our family has visited Ellis Park quite a few times. Although it is very near to the hustle and bustle of Salisbury, the park atmosphere is serene and feels like a park far removed into a country setting.
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| Outdoor Family Outings Near Salisbury © Katrena |
My kids were immediately drawn to the playground directly behind the community building. The playground area offers a nice variety of equipment, including swings, slides, monkey bars, a tunnel, and a small climbing wall. The hanging rings and bar were a big hit with my second oldest.
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| Encourage the Kids to Play and Use Imagination © Katrena |
The playground area also encourages imaginative play with a large van, tractor, and ducks to ride. Something that this playground offers that is particularly nice for caregivers is shade. Many pieces of playground equipment tend to get hot as temperatures soar in the summer months, but this playground area is nicely shaded and adjacent to the parking lot, making this park especially nice for folks who may have mobility issues. Some playground equipment is handicap accessible as well.
NOTE: in June of 2018, this playground was updated. It is no longer shaded, but the playground is large and is ADA accessible. Click
here to learn more about the updated playground.
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| Handicap Accessible Scenic Trails in Rowan County NC © Katrena |
The bathroom facilities are also very near with a nicely landscaped flower garden along the sidewalk that flanks the building. Parks and recreation staff members are friendly and willing to answer questions and offer suggestions for activities at the park.
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| Walking Trails and Nature Trails in NC © Katrena |
Just behind the playground area is a wooded trail that meanders behind the picnic shelter and through the trees. This trail also serves as part of a disc golf course. People can try their skills at throwing a disc (my age group would probably more readily call it a "Frisbee") into the various targets.
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| Fun Free Family Activities © Katrena |
Of course, nature always provides areas of interest along an outdoor trail, and the various seasons provide a different backdrop for visits. You might want to bring along a field guide for identifying plants and birds or search for an online guide if you have internet connection with you. If you continue along the walking trail, you will see ball fields, tennis courts, and additional picnic shelters.
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| Free Outdoor Fitness Opportunities © Katrena |
The trail ends with a surprise: a free fitness circuit training area for the adults! Of course, my kids had to try out some of the various training areas too. These fitness stations provide a great workout with opportunities for pull-ups, balance, cardio training and more. Each station offers pictures and suggestions for exercises. Before starting or changing any exercise program, one should consult his or her healthcare provider.
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| Free Outdoor Circuit Exercise Equipment © Katrena |
This is a nice, relaxing park that offers families the opportunity to have fun, play, and unwind. You might want to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy while visiting. This park offers recreational and fitness opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Visit the Rowan County Parks and Recreation
Ellis Park page for additional information.
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| Rowan County Parks and Recreation Ellis Park © Katrena |
Nearby outdoor recreational opportunities:
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| Fun Family Activities in Piedmont of North Carolina © Katrena |
I hope you enjoy this article featuring Ellis Park in Rowan County, NC. Find more of my travel articles at
Travel NC With Kids and
Love 2 Travel With Kids. If the weather is rainy or you are looking for fun family indoor activities, check out my free scavenger hunts, printables, games, and more at
Wildflower Bouquets.
Thanks, Katrena, for the info. I didn't realize Ellis Park had all of this to offer.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Dicy. Ellis is one of the many unsung parks in NC with lots of wonderful resources that few know are available.
ReplyDelete