Innovation Hills Park in Rochester Hills, Michigan, is more than just a traditional city park—it's a modern example of sustainable design, community engagement, and inclusive recreation. Spanning 110+ acres, this revitalized green space features boardwalks, nature-focused play areas, accessible trails, and new systems like paid parking and digital alerts. Whether you're a nature lover, a local resident, or an eco-conscious traveler, Innovation Hills is a must-visit gem highlighting how urban parks can harmonize with nature and community needs.
Innovation Hills Park is a premier destination for outdoor recreation and environmental appreciation in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Spanning over 110 acres, this expansive park is celebrated for its innovative design, ecological restoration efforts, and accessibility to visitors of all ages. Formerly known as Riverbend Park, Innovation Hills underwent a substantial revitalization, transforming it into one of the most unique and engaging green spaces in the region. With winding boardwalks, interactive play areas, and meticulously maintained trails, the park seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern recreational amenities.
As the largest city-owned park in Rochester Hills, Innovation Hills plays a vital role in the community's commitment to sustainability, wellness, and family-friendly recreation. The park exemplifies the city's investment in green infrastructure and public spaces that promote active lifestyles, environmental education, and community connection. Its development has garnered attention throughout Oakland County and Southeast Michigan, establishing it as a model for urban park innovation and a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike.
Innovation Hills Park has implemented a new paid parking system as part of an effort to support maintenance and operational costs. The pay-to-park structure was introduced to align with similar systems in other parks across the Rochester Hills area, ensuring long-term sustainability of park services and amenities. The system officially went into effect in early 2024 and applies to all on-site parking areas within Innovation Hills.
The transition to paid parking began with the installation of payment kiosks and signage throughout the park’s main parking lot. Enforcement began shortly thereafter, with clear communication to visitors via both physical signage and digital updates. All vehicular access parking areas within the park boundaries are now subject to the new payment requirements. This includes the main entrance lot off Innovation Drive and any overflow parking used during peak hours.
Visitors can pay for parking using multiple convenient methods:
The current fee structure is modest and designed to remain affordable for regular users. Rates are typically hourly, with a daily maximum cap. Rochester Hills residents may be eligible for discounted rates or annual permits, which can be obtained by verifying residency through the city portal.
To keep residents and park users informed about the parking changes and other updates, the City of Rochester Hills has rolled out the RHConnect system. This digital communication platform allows users to receive real-time updates via email or text message. By subscribing, park visitors can stay up to date on parking enforcement changes, fee adjustments, and special exemptions during events or public holidays.
To sign up for RHConnect:
This system ensures transparency and ongoing communication between the city and its residents.
Innovation Hills remains committed to accessibility for all visitors. Designated accessible parking spaces are available and clearly marked in compliance with ADA standards. Vehicles displaying a valid disability placard or license plate may be eligible for free or extended parking, depending on current city policy. Visitors needing special accommodations are encouraged to contact the Rochester Hills Parks & Natural Resources Department in advance of their visit.
City officials have encouraged community feedback on the paid parking system and are open to reviewing the program as needed. Surveys and public input sessions may be conducted periodically to assess the system’s effectiveness and its impact on park access. Updates to parking policy, rates, or enforcement procedures will be communicated through RHConnect and posted at the park.
For more information, visitors can contact the City of Rochester Hills or visit the official Innovation Hills Park webpage.
Effective communication plays a crucial role in keeping the community informed about developments and changes at Innovation Hills Park. Whether it's news about the new paid parking system, upcoming events, or general park updates, the City of Rochester Hills has implemented several tools to ensure residents and visitors stay connected.
To streamline communication with the public, the City of Rochester Hills has launched RHConnect, a dedicated notification system designed to deliver timely updates about city services and facilities, including Innovation Hills Park. Through RHConnect, users can opt to receive notifications via email or text message, ensuring they remain informed about important park-related news.
This system is especially useful for communicating changes such as weather-related closures, construction updates, or new park features. By subscribing to RHConnect, visitors can better plan their trips and avoid any unexpected disruptions during their visit to Innovation Hills.
Residents and park-goers interested in receiving updates about Innovation Hills can sign up for RHConnect through the City of Rochester Hills’ official website. The sign-up process is straightforward and allows users to customize their preferences based on the type of information they wish to receive.
In addition to RHConnect, the city utilizes multiple communication channels to reach a broad audience. These include:
Staying updated through these communication channels helps visitors make the most of their experience at Innovation Hills Park. Whether a change in operating hours, a new trail opening, or a community event is taking place, these updates ensure that everyone has the information needed to enjoy a safe and enjoyable visit.
Being part of the RHConnect system also allows residents to provide feedback and stay engaged with local initiatives, strengthening the bond between the city and its community members.
Innovation Hills Park is committed to providing a safe, enjoyable, and environmentally respectful space for all visitors. To ensure a positive experience, guests are asked to follow park rules at all times:
These guidelines help preserve the park’s natural beauty and ensure a welcoming space for everyone.
To maintain the integrity of Innovation Hills and the safety of all visitors, the following activities are not permitted:
Violations may result in fines or removal from the premises, in accordance with city park regulations.
Innovation Hills is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all visitors. Notable accessibility features include:
The park continues to improve and expand its accessible offerings to ensure every guest can enjoy the space comfortably.
Innovation Hills has recently implemented a paid parking system to support maintenance and development of the park. Visitors should be aware of the following:
Parking revenue supports preservation of trails, restrooms, and other facilities, contributing directly to the park’s upkeep.
For a safe and enjoyable visit, keep these suggestions in mind:
Emergency contact information and park maps are posted at key locations and trailheads.
Visitors are encouraged to stay updated on park news, events, and changes, such as parking updates or trail closures. The City of Rochester Hills offers the RHConnect system, which provides real-time alerts via text or email. This is especially useful for updates related to weather, maintenance, or community events happening within the park.
To sign up, visit the official Rochester Hills website and register for notifications under the RHConnect portal.
Innovation Hills Park offers several opportunities for community members to give back through volunteer work. The City of Rochester Hills often partners with local organizations and residents to maintain the park’s natural beauty and support its ongoing development. Volunteers can participate in a variety of activities, including planting native species, maintaining trails, assisting with educational programs, and helping to organize special events. Seasonal clean-up days and conservation efforts are especially popular among local schools, scout troops, and civic groups.
Those interested in volunteering can contact the Rochester Hills Parks & Natural Resources Department or check the city’s official website for signup forms and upcoming opportunities. Volunteering not only helps sustain the park but also fosters a strong sense of community among participants.
Innovation Hills Park serves as a hub for diverse community programs designed to educate and engage visitors of all ages. Programs include nature walks, environmental education workshops, and guided tours highlighting the park’s sustainable design features, such as its stormwater management system and native landscaping.
The park also collaborates with the Rochester Hills Public Library and other local institutions to host outdoor reading sessions, youth activities, and wellness programs like group yoga and mindfulness hikes. These programs are typically free or low-cost and aim to promote environmental awareness, physical well-being, and social connection.
Innovation Hills exemplifies Rochester Hills’ commitment to sustainability and community wellness. One of the park’s most notable initiatives is its eco-conscious design, which emphasizes minimal environmental impact through innovation in landscape architecture and infrastructure. Features like solar lighting along trails and permeable paving materials reflect this green mission.
Additionally, the park supports local initiatives such as "Keep Rochester Hills Beautiful," a city-wide campaign to promote litter prevention and environmental stewardship. Community members are encouraged to participate in these initiatives through educational outreach and hands-on events hosted at the park.
Residents and visitors can contribute to the park’s continued success in multiple ways beyond volunteering. Donations are accepted through the Rochester Hills Community Foundation, which helps fund park improvements, educational signage, and accessibility enhancements. Donors may also support specific projects such as the expansion of the universally accessible playground or the development of interactive exhibits within the nature play areas.
Another way to contribute is by attending city council or parks commission meetings, where community input is welcomed on future park developments. Staying informed and involved ensures that the park continues to reflect the values and needs of the Rochester Hills community.
Innovation Hills is more than just a park—it's a living example of Rochester Hills' dedication to sustainability, accessibility, and community connection. With interactive features, eco-conscious infrastructure, and evolving amenities like paid parking and RHConnect, it's setting a new standard for what an urban green space can be. Ready to explore one of Michigan’s most forward-thinking parks? Visit Innovation Hills and be part of a greener, more connected future.
