Our Needs
Cottage Grove residents value our city’s parks, trails, recreation facilities, and natural open spaces. The last major reinvestment in Cottage Grove’s park system took place in 1984. Though the city’s population is growing at a rate of 2.55% annually and has grown dramatically over the last 30 years, our parks and recreation spaces have not kept up with demand for more activities, access to open spaces, and preservation of natural habitat.
Our city’s parks, recreation centers, and open spaces have incredible potential to contribute to a more active and vibrant city that benefits all residents, businesses, and visitors. After listening to residents’ desires for additional recreational opportunities, preserving natural habitat, and creating more access and a stronger connection to the river and open spaces, the city identified needed improvements and upgrades at three recreation destinations.
Hamlet Park
Acquired in 1959, Hamlet Park is the city’s oldest and largest park. With it being the oldest park in Cottage Grove, many facilities are in need of repair or reinvestment. With 150 acres of space at the park, large areas are currently being underutilized.
As a result, the park requires significant improvements to provide access to the recreational opportunities residents desire, improve its accessibility for community members of all ages and mobility levels, and become a central gathering hub for our community to connect, thrive, and play.
Mississippi Dunes Park
Although the Mississippi River runs through Cottage Grove, the community has not had a nature-centered space to learn about the environment, enjoy and explore natural habitats, and have direct access to the river. While the city has been maintaining nature trails on the Mississippi Dunes Park property, it has not been able to invest in the restoration and preservation of natural habitat or enhance public access to the river and surrounding environment.
River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center
River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center is a popular place for residents and visitors alike. The 18-hole golf course, Toptracer range, bocce ball court, winter trails, restaurant, and event center have served our community well for over 30 years. As our community grows, so does the need for more year-round, family-friendly activities and events. River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center has the potential to become that recreation destination.