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Shadyside Park Complex

Shadyside Memorial Park

1112 Broadway

Shadyside Memorial Park originally opened in 1897 as a private park for the employees of the Union Traction Company (Inter-Urban Railroad).  The 1923 the City of Anderson purchased the park and opened it to the public on July  4th, 1923 with a ceremony dedication the park to all Madison County war veterans.  Local nurseryman, Milton H. Gaar, was contracted in 1928 to construct the Japanese Gardens (now know as the Terraced Gardens).  In 1933 construction of the Bear Caves by the WPA (Works Progress Administration) took place.  Renovations were necessary in the 1990's to repair the Terraced Gardens and make other general improvements creating a botanical walk, amphitheater, and what is now know as the Veterans Commons.  The play area was expanded into a regional playground suitable for children of all ages and sizes.

Amenities:

Memorial Park Shelter - An open-sided shelter and adjacent picnic area are available for family reunions and other gatherings.  The shelter can handle up to 60 people and the adjacent picnic area can handle up to 50 people. Reservation requires a completed 'Park Use Application' and is handled through the Park's Main Office.

Terraced Gardens/Valley Area - a unique garden offering levels of beautiful landscaping.  This area is a very popular location for weddings.  Reservation requires a completed 'Park Use Application' and is handled through the Park's Main Office.

Veteran's Commons - Built in 1998, this area pays tribute to all the men and women of Madison County who have served in the Armed Forces protecting our freedoms.

Regional Playground - The play area features four unique play structures designed to meet the needs of children of various ages.

Parks Department Main Office - Located at 101 East Oak Street.  Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Please stop by to make facility reservations and for any other park information.

Shadyside Recreation Area

Alexandria Pike

The Shadyside Recreation Area, originally knows as Aqua Gardens, was purchased in 1970 by the City of Anderson from Meyer Sand & Gravel (IMI).  The park is approximately 87 acres and features two connected lakes totaling 63 acres and a bait shop.  In 1973, a Land & Water Conservation Grant was obtained to construct the 2.65 miles of biking/walking trails encircling the lakes.  The Covered Bridge, a special feature of the park, was added in 1978.  Renovations began in 1999 adding an Activities Center featuring year-round restrooms, sand volleyball courts and a long pier for accessible fishing.  A new shelter and a playground were also added near the Covered Bridge; and a pier by the north boat launch was installed.

Amenities:

North Lake Boat Launch - Located at the north end of the lake off of Cross Street; accommodates the launch of small water craft.  Fishing lake only, no gas powered motors are allowed.

Fitness Trail - A paced trail loops around both the north and south lakes providing approximately 2.65 miles of trail.  This trail system also connects to the Memorial Park side as well as the Killbuck Wetlands and continues on the Anderson's Whiter River trail system.

Gazebo & Playground at the Covered Bridge - This open-sided shelter is available for group gatherings and features a nearby playground.  Reservation requires a completed 'Park Use Application' and is handled through the Park's Main Office

Bait Shop - Offers bait and tackle services, concessions. and restrooms.  Open daily 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., April through October.

Activity Center - Known as Aqua Gardens by the locals, this updated area features a handicap accessible pier for fishing, sand volleyball courts, restrooms, and various organized recreation leagues; available for rental.