In May 2008, Silverwood Park was closed to the public as facility development and other park improvements began to create a new park-based center for arts and the environment. Construction is anticipated to be largely completed by August 2009 and the park will reopen to the public at that time. Mark your calendars for the Grand Opening Celebration set for September 26, 2009!

Exterior views of the new visitor center. Click to enlarge.

New Construction Highlights

• Visitor center with green technology features including geo-thermal heat and cistern for storm water retention and reuse
• A parking lot which utilizes permeable pavers and rain gardens to manage storm water runoff
• New entrance road with storm water retention ponds providing additional aquatic habitat
• A multi-use performing arts amphitheater that blends into the landscape
• Formal and informal gardens featuring native plants
• A reconstructed bridge to the island
• A paved bike/hike trail loop through the park
• Expanded maintenance facility

View construction photos - February 2009 (PDF)

Silverwood Park Gallery and Programs

Exhibit Schedule and Call for Artwork
Artists are invited to submit an Application for Exhibit Space in order to have pieces of art considered for exhibit in the Silverwood Park Gallery. Please consider the exhibit themes and deadlines below before submitting an Application for Exhibit Space, in addition to the fact that Silverwood Park Gallery features nature-inspired art.

Download Exhibit Schedule & Call for Artwork (PDF)
Download Exhibit Space Application (PDF)

Program Proposals
Classes proposed to be taught at Silverwood Park should support the mission of Three Rivers Park District ‘to promote environmental stewardship through recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system,’ and Silverwood Park, which serves as a regional center for the arts and the environment, devoted to the integration of nature-based experiences and artistic creation.

Download Program Proposal Form (PDF)

New and Improved Facilities and Amenities

Hiking Trails – Upon re-opening, various handicapped accessible paved and non-paved trails will flow through the mature white oak woods, aspen stands, wildflower glades, designed gardens, and over a new bridge to Silver Lake's largest island.

Picnic Shelter – A picnic shelter is located on one of the park's islands; upon completion of current construction, visitors may access the picnic shelter by crossing the new handicapped accessible footbridge.

Canoeing/Kayaking – Bring a canoe or kayak and paddle peaceful Silver Lake. Canoe rentals are not available at this time.

Fishing – Shore fishing is available; fish in Silver Lake include crappies, sunfish, northern pike, walleye, bullheads and carp. A concrete boat launch is located outside of the park on the southwest side of the lake. Motorized and non-motorized boats may be launched from that location. There is no boat launch available at Silverwood Park, but canoes and kayaks can be carried in and launched from shore.  Future development plans include the construction of two fishing piers, providing for both shallow- and deep-water angling. 

Programs – Discover the wonders of the natural world and learn new recreational skills at Three Rivers Park District's programs for children and adults. Upon re-opening, Silverwood Park will provide opportunities for people of all ages to connect with nature and the environment through the arts during both public programs and scheduled group opportunities. Check back for new and exciting arts programming beginning mid-2009.

Park Buildings – Improvements to existing buildings, as well as the construction of a new Visitor Center with green technology, will enhance your enjoyment of the park upon re-opening. Included in the Visitor Center is a large group rental space designed to accommodate wedding parties, corporate gatherings, family reunions and other large events.

Performing Arts Amphitheater – Take advantage of world-class performances surrounded by the natural beauty of Silverwood Park. This nature-inspired, artistically designed stage with primary seating for 250 and additional lawn seating for larger gatherings will host a variety of regularly-scheduled performance art (including dance, theatre, music and more). Or, take center-stage and reserve this beautiful venue for you wedding or other special day!

Wild Things – Silverwood Park boasts 2,300 feet of shoreline on Silver Lake. The park provides habitat for numerous wildlife including white-tailed deer, fox, a pair of great-horned owls, common loons, sharp-shinned hawks, white-breasted nuthatches and cedar waxwings. The park’s most significant feature is a 20-acre mature upland oak forest that features mainly white oaks, but also contains red oak, bur oak, cherry and aspen.

For more information, please call 763-559-9000. Thank you for your patience during this period of construction and re-development.

Silverwood Park supports the mission of Three Rivers Park District ‘to promote environmental stewardship through recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system’ by serving as a regional center for the arts and the environment, devoted to the integration of nature-based experiences and artistic creation.