More than thirty years ago, Anson B. Nixon Park was made possible because leaders in the community had the vision and commitment to form the Kennett Area Park Authority. KAPA was entrusted with approximately 106 acres of land a mission to preserve open space, strengthen environmental stewardship, and provide free access for public recreation. Since then, and in cooperation with local organizations in our diverse community, we have held events ranging from a Juneteenth Poetry Slam to a Celebration of Hispanic Heritage. This year saw the return of the beloved Annual Trout Rodeo – with record numbers of participants! Planning has already begun for the Free Summer Concert Series in 2023. Work continues on the refurbished “Tino” Leto Athletic Fields for league play and community use. Forestry projects are underway, and a Serenity Pollinator Garden will be installed next year.
Many recall with Anson B. Nixon Park was simply known as the “backfield” to locals who played in the creek and meadows. Now the park is open daily from dawn to dusk with trails, ponds, open spaces, playgrounds, dog parks, a stage, and the community garden – in addition to athletic facilities.
With no per capita tax-based funding, daily operations are a serious challenge on KAPA’s no-frills budget. A volunteer board and only 3 park staff maintain this local gem. To that end, the Friends of Anson B. Nixon Park 501(c)(3) charitable organization was formed to support the strategic goals of KAPA. Your gift means more than you know and will allow us to continue the important work of restoring open green space in addition to ongoing maintenance and upgrades. Capital improvements to the Historic Water Works buildings will allow us to serve our growing community in inclusive and meaningful ways for generations to come. Generous contributions by donors like you help make this wonderful community resource that we enjoy today possible – right here in Kennett Square’s backyard! Please contribute today using the link below!
Anson B. Nixon Park is owned and operated by the Kennett Area Park Authority (KAPA), a local board formed to solely focus on the management of Anson B. Nixon Park. As an independent municipal authority, it is not affiliated with the Pennsylvania State Park system and does not receive any per capita tax based funding from the state, therefore relying on local support to fund all operations. The Park is located on 106 acres extending from the Borough of Kennett Square into Kennett Township. The Park is open sunrise to sunset daily and free to the general public. The Park offers a safe outdoor venue with facilities and seasonal programs to build community among the area’s diverse ethnic, social, age, and economic groups.
General Information
- KAPA is accepting reservations for the park pavilions. For reservation inquiries, please send an email to AnsonBNixonPark@gmail.com or submit a completed Reservation Request Form.
- The restrooms are open for the season, and there are portable toilets located at the “Tino” Leto Athletic Fields.
- There is no food or drink allowed on the stage.
- Alcohol is not permitted in the park.
- When using the dog park, please keep your pets leashed while entering and exiting. Please clean up after your pet. Dog waste bags have been provided for your convenience.
