Find out what is available at River Bend Park

UNION TWP. — Few people know about or use River Bend Park, developed by the Branch County Parks Board along the Coldwater River, for relaxation, river walks, disc golf, and a place to launch kayaks or canoes into the Michigan Water Trail system.

Parks manager Jay Miller told his board in April, “We’ve really made a lot of improvements out there, but it’s not used all that much. Not too many know what we’ve done.”

The Coldwater River wraps around the 25-acre park at 315 W Girard Road, creating a beautiful, natural setting.

The park is an island of Michigan woodland partially developed since the county took over in the 1970s, using DNR Natural Resources Grants and county funds.

The park is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. May 1 to Oct. 15.

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Trails wind and cross through the woods along the banks of the Coldwater River.

Open areas with well-maintained and mature trees provide space for private or large group picnics, and three large pavilions are available to rent.

Modern restrooms are near a large playground. Two horseshoe pits sit next to two permanent concrete cornhole courts, where you bring your own bags. A sand beach volleyball court is nearby.

Dogs are allowed but only on leash.

Two park features stand out: the disc golf course and the kayak/canoe launch along the Coldwater River.

Disc golf

Inspired by disc golf enthusiast Pastor Don Mason of the Union City First Congregational Church, the nine-hole course winds along trails cut through the woods along the river and across the park.

Miller said those who play find it challenging. For those new to the course, regulars suggest walking it before you try to sink your disc in the chain baskets mostly hidden from the tees.

“Those who play disc golf enjoy the course along the trails. It’ one of only two in Branch County,” Miller said. The other is at Coldwater’s Heritage Park.

Kayak and canoe launch

River Bend Park is a launch point for the Michigan Water Trails, which leads to the start of the Greater Union City Water Way at the intersection of the St. Joseph River.

The launch at the park's far side is on a stretch of the Coldwater River that can be very challenging due to currents and deadfall trees.

As the Water Trails guide warns, this run may not be suitable for weaker or less experienced paddlers.

Because of the dangers of the river, swimming and wading in the river are prohibited.

Michigan Water Trails states, “This stretch to the JP Palmer Launch in Union City is popular with local paddlers but is not ‘maintained.’"

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Efforts to remove deadfall trees faced new ones from recurring storms. During high water, “This stretch remains for the adventurous and experienced,” Michigan Water Trails warns.

— Contact Don Reid: dReid@Gannett.com