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Parks & Recreation
Weather Alerts, Closures, and Cancellations
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Below is the status of Mills River Park amenities. Staff is working diligently to open all amenities as soon as possible after the effects of Hurricane Helene.
Opened | Closed |
| Inner Walking Trail | Boat Launch Parking |
| Park Restrooms | Fishing Pier |
| Hickory and Willow Oak Shelters | Canoe/Kayak Launch |
| Tennis and Pickleball Courts | Meadow |
| Basketball Courts | All Access to the River |
| Playground | River Picnic Area |
| Rear Walking Trail (Trail Only) | |
| Dog Park | |
Mission
To provide quality recreational facilities, parks, and programs, which are safe, diverse, and enriching to the Mills River community.
Vision
Our vision is to make Mills River a happier, healthier, and greener community through programs and places.
Core Values
Health and Wellness – We strive to provide the people of Mills River with opportunities to work on both their mental and physical health.
Conservation and Stewardship– We are committed to preserving, protecting, and enhancing our Natural Resources through education, conservation, and sustainable practices.
Safety – We work to provide safe and well-maintained spaces.
Accessibility and Inclusion – We ensure that everyone has access to high-quality parks and recreational opportunities.
Responsibility – We value efficient and effective management of our assets and good stewardship of our tax dollars.

Parks & Recreation Master Plan
In May of 2021, the Mills River Town Council adopted its first-ever Parks & Recreation Master Plan. This plan, created through community input and engagement, helps staff and elected officials understand the recreational wants and needs of the community. It serves as a guide for decisions related to recreation facilities, programs, and policies.
The addition of special events and recreation programs, the development of the 21.5-acre Banner Farm Road Property, and the addition of Greenways and Trails were the highest recreational priorities identified in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Click the links below for PDF versions of our Master Plans.
In 2023 the Town purchased an additional 69 acres adjoining Mills River Park. A comprehensive public input process was completed and Town Council Adopted the Mills River Park Expansion Plan in the Spring of 2024.
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Mills River Park Expansion Plan