Mills River Park Playground – Mills River NC
Mills River’s Inclusive Park Expansion Welcomes All
If you’ve been looking for more reasons to move to Hendersonville and its surrounding communities, here’s a heartwarming one: the town of Mills River is stepping up its game in family-friendly inclusivity with the addition of a brand-new, all-abilities playground at Mills River Park!
Empowering Play for Every Child
Thanks to a $263,000 Accessibility for Parks Grant, Mills River broke ground in December 2024 on a thoughtful and innovative new playground that ensures children of all abilities can enjoy the magic of play. Featuring a hillside slide, a spinner, climbers, a musical garden, and even a story walk, this playground isn’t just another neighborhood swing set—it’s a community commitment to accessible fun.
Director of Parks and Recreation Nicole Sweat shared: “It’s more than just a fun space—it’s a place where every child, regardless of ability, can play, explore, and connect.” The new playground will also include a fully accessible pathway linking the park to Town Hall and the Mills River Library, creating both physical and social connectivity for the area’s families.
Why It Matters for Henderson County Families
For local residents and those thinking of relocating to Hendersonville, projects like this stand out as quality-of-life game changers. Access to inclusive outdoor spaces makes living in Hendersonville and its neighboring towns more vibrant and community-focused. Whether you’re a parent seeking a supportive place to raise your children or simply enjoy being part of a thoughtful town, Mills River’s ongoing park improvements speak volumes.
Families can expect:
- A safe and welcoming space for children of all abilities
- Enhanced social interactions among kids from diverse backgrounds
- Greater accessibility within the park and surrounding civic buildings
- Continued development and improvements to recreational spaces
Construction Timeline and Community Impact
While some occasional closures of the current playground may occur during construction, the town plans to keep it open as much as safely possible. Residents can stay updated on timelines and temporary closures through the Mills River official website or follow the latest updates on their Facebook and Instagram pages.
The project is expected to be completed by April, with a grand opening just in time for spring and summer adventures. According to Mayor Shanon Gonce, this is just the first step in a broader initiative to develop the area around Mills River Park. That means even more expansive recreation opportunities are on the horizon.
Mills River: Small Town Charm Meets Progressive Vision
Located just a short drive west of Hendersonville, Mills River is one of Henderson County’s hidden gems. Nestled between Brevard and Asheville, it provides quick access to outdoor adventures while retaining a cozy, close-knit atmosphere. If you’re wondering what’s it like living in Hendersonville or nearby, Mills River offers an excellent blend of rural beauty and modern amenities.
The new park addition is the latest example of how even small towns are making big strides to improve quality of life. Whether it’s accessible recreation, residential charm, or that perfect mix of community and convenience, Mills River is becoming a bright spot on the map for anyone thinking about a move to this vibrant region.
Plan Your Visit
Want to see the changes for yourself? Make time to visit Mills River Park and explore everything it currently offers. While you’re in the area, take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, sample a craft brew at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., or hike one of the many nearby trails. Henderson County is all about blending nature, family fun, and strong community initiatives.
As these thoughtful enhancements continue to reshape the local landscape, there’s no better time to consider making the leap to move to Hendersonville or one of its neighboring towns. The region’s commitment to inclusivity, outdoor wellness, and community investment is nothing short of inspiring—and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
More to Explore
Looking for more family-friendly things to do in Hendersonville or tips on relocating? Our Learning Center at Henderson County Homes is packed with guides and insight to make your transition smooth and joyful.
From inclusive playgrounds to thriving downtowns, living in Hendersonville means joining a community that values every resident. We hope to see you at the grand opening this spring—pack a picnic and bring your sense of adventure. Mills River is ready to play!