Grover Nelson Park’s unwavering history and vision began with its namesake, Grover Nelson. During the 1950’s, Abilene became a thriving community due to the railroad, vast spaces, and airport. With the new growth, it was decided to move the Airport to a larger location to keep up with the development of airline travel and the need for longer runways for the Jets and Planes of Dyess Air Force Base.
After the Airport was relocated this sect of land became in demand for new houses and commercial development. Grover Nelson wanted the land to become dedicated Park Land and in 1955, Mr. Nelson presented his vision to the Abilene Parks Board. His concept included adding softball fields and moving the Abilene Zoo to this new area. Approximately one year later, the property was officially dedicated as Park Land and in 1959 Nelson Park officially opened. The Park was named Grover Nelson Park in appreciation of Mr. Nelson’s interest in the creation of this park.
Of all its mixed amenities, one of the greatest of these is the Abilene Zoo. The Zoo utilized original land features in the initial design and later building additions. The Zoo was first built in 1966 along with Zoo World, a themed year round carnival attraction. Zoo World was demolished in 1980’s to make room for new and exciting amenities. Today, the Zoo is Abilene’s #1 attraction and a desired destination for all Abileneans.
In 2011, another popular park feature was added: the Nelson Splash Pad. The spray park is 4,000 square foot pad was funded through a partnership with the City of Abilene and the Together 2011 Initiative. The marine-life themed Spray Park is open April through October and is a happening spot for families and children.
Nelson Park has 5 baseball/softball fields with a dedicated entrance and parking. This creates comfortable accessibility for all users and guests. The fields are used for youth and adult leagues and tournaments. The capacity to host multiple games creates an avenue to host statewide tournaments which has a large economic impact for Abilene. For example, the annual League of Latin America Citizens (LULAC) Softball Tournament draws in over 3,000 players and fans during a single weekend. The LULAC tournament is 35 + years old and the event proceeds go for school supplies and funding educational scholarships. With a seating capacity close to 160 people, it is a sought-after rental facility for the public.
The 174 acres of Nelson Park has 2 playgrounds, 3 pavilions, lighted walking/running track, and plenty of open space. It is home to many community events including the Steam N Wheels, Bike Race, Fourth of July Fireworks Show, Krewe of Barkus Dog Parade, Heels and Wheels Duathlon Race, Multiple 5K Runs, Dachshund Races, to name a few. The natural features include a variety of trees that include Cactuses, Mesquite Trees, Live Oak Trees, Cedar Trees, Evergreens, and an assortment of trees and plants native to the West Texas landscape. A portion of the original Airport runway was preserved and repurposed into a roadway inside the Park. Nelson Park plays a key role in the preservation of both native and man-made points of interest. The man-made 20 acre lake is home to many fish species, ducks, geese, birds, and other animals. The lake at Nelson Park is a conservation habitat for many animals and birds.
The Big Country Audubon Society has identified many bird species at Nelson Park including Western Kingbirds, Ash-throated Flycatchers, Eastern Bluebird and more. The Abilene Zoo has over 600 animal species that utilize many of Nelson Park resources. The natural landscape curves have been preserved and incorporated in the Zoo layout. The Zoo breeds various species of animals to preserve the lifeline of the animals. Patrons can participate in an Adopt-an-Animal Program, which allows visitors to show support for conservation and wildlife preservation. It contains many exhibits featuring a wide array of animals displayed in modern areas that simulate a natural environment including Central American Spider Monkeys, Black Rhinoceros, American Black Bears, Turtles, Skunks, American Bison, Ring-tailed Lemurs, to name a few.