History of the Park

River Oaks County Park is located in a residential community built in the 1930’s within a 100-year floodplain. During flood events, residential properties within the current park location would become inundated, causing damage and preventing access. Recognizing these issues, the Ozaukee County Planning and Parks and Land and Water Management Departments, in partnership with the Town of Grafton, applied for Wisconsin DNR Municipal Flood Control and FEMA Flood Hazard Mitigation grants beginning in 2014. These initial grants were awarded in 2014 for the demolition of the structures on a 1.9 acre parcel and formally designated as River Oaks County Park.  Since then, 4 additional parcels have been acquired and incorporated into the park. The park was officially acquired in 2016.

These parcels were listed for acquisition and designation as a County Park in the Ozaukee County Park and Open Space Plan. The Town of Grafton Board and County Board of Supervisors have continually supported this project. In addition, the County Departments hosted several public meetings during the acquisitions. All property acquisitions have been voluntary.

Overall, this unique acquisition project has alleviated flooding impacts to multiple residences and has resulted in a community-wide asset - park and open space land for recreation and enjoyment of Ozaukee County’s natural resources.