James and Shirley Balk Family Park

In early 2023, with a generous donation from the Balk family, Kent County acquired a 125-acre portion of the former Silver Lake Country Club site in Cannon Township. This property was previously slated for development before the Balk family and Kent County mobilized to save this natural area. With additional investment, Kent County plans to make improvements to the site, allowing for families to enjoy outdoor recreation opportunities, creating the James and Shirley Balk Family Park.

The James and Shirley Balk Family Park is positioned in proximity to other Kent County parks such as Fred Meijer Nature Preserve at Pickerel Lake Park, Townsend Park, and Luton Park. Combined, these parks create a destination for residents and visitors to enjoy the physical and health benefits that the outdoors offer. Additionally, there are long-term plans to connect these parks with a paved non-motorized trail, in partnership with Cannon Township.