Status: Demolished, now has condos built on the property.

Hidden amongst the trees and weeds in Riverdale lie the remnants of what was once a thriving weekend recreational park. It consisted of changing houses, snack houses, and a very large pool and was a popular place for city people and others from the 60’s to the 80’s. It was told to me that people have drowned in the pool in its heyday when it was open for business, but this is common for a place like this. In 1964, Richard Nixon was there when he campaigned for George Mc Govern. He had already been a two term Vice President at this time.

Valley Spring comes complete with a stream that runs around it and its own waterfall. Unfortunately, this like many other abandoned places has become the dumping grounds for garbage, old furniture and appliances, remnants of other fallen buildings, and deer parts. While walking around Valley Spring, the stench of rotting flesh is putrid.

This land is under consideration for development, so visit while it’s still there. You’ll be taken back by how large the pool really is.

It was very difficult to take pictures of because of the size of the pool and the thick brush that grew over the pool, but I tried to take a few anyway.

- Ember, 2003, history courtesy of Brett Trieble