Well, first off, I'd have to say don't believe everything you read/hear. Yes, I suppose this park (along with a good bit of the "Field of Springs" itself...) doesn't have the best reputation, but other than its murky, garbage and algae choked waters, its reputation for DANGER after hours, and its general state of "past its prime," it's really a wonderful gem. I drive through here often on my way home from work, and it REALLY is the definition of a "gem in the ROUGH!!" There's TONS of history here, hidden away in the broken down boathouses just BEGGING to be restored to their former glory. There's a few large picnic pavilions, a dog park, a community garden, a busy playground and spray-ground for the kiddies, and so much more. A few years back, they created some "rapids" for kayakers, but it has very sadly been abandoned/not kept up. The park is the setting for a number of 5K races every year (Mr. M&P even "ran" a few...) and it's also the home of the wonderful Springfield Art Museum. Annual events like the Summer Arts Fest and the Food Truck Competition are VERY popular, but this place STILL (IMO...) gets no respect.
Take a detour during the sunset hours, bring your pooch to the dog park, your kids to the playground, or just take a walk to clear your head. Give this "old girl" the respect she deserves...!!
ENJOY!! read more