South Bend Parks and Recreation Department

– Activity Guide (PDF)
– Activities 0-5 years
– Activities 6-Teen years
– Adult Programs

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Adult Programs

– Adult Classes

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Aquatics

– Aquatics
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ASA Softball

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Camps

– Camps
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Facilities

– Charles Black Center
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– Facilities Chart (PDF)

Information

– Contact Us

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Golf

– Elbel Park Golf Club
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– Staff Bios

Kid Stuff

– Activities 0-5 years
– Activities 6-Teen years

– Aquatics
– Camps
– Programs
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– Special Events

O'Brien Fitness Center

– O'Brien Fitness Center
– Group Fitness Calendar
– Facilities & Enrollment
– Membership Rates
– Massage
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Parks

– East Race Waterway
– Parks List
– Park Map
– River Walk
– Rum Village Nature Ctr.
– Conservatory
– Potwatomi Zoo

Potawatomi Zoo

– Potwatomi Zoo
– Hours & Adminission
– What's New?
– Zoo Membership
– Zoo Map
– Volunteer
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Rum Village Nature Center

– Rum Village Nature Ctr.
– Rum Village Trails
– Events

Special Events

How long is the East Race Waterway?
1,900 feet

How long does it take to go down the East Race? Approximately 5 minutes at a moderate speed.

Who helped build the East Race?
The South Bend engineering firm of Lawson & Fisher Associates, John Fisher Head Engineer.

How long did it take to build?
2 years.

How much did it cost to build?
$5 million with a $1 million grant and $4 million in local bonds.
When did the East Race open?
Approximately 240,000 people have enjoyed the East Race Waterway since opening in 1984.

What is the white water scale rating of the East Race?
The East Race runs at a 2 rating during recreational rafting and kayaking hours.

What is the flow speed of the East Race?
The East Race normally runs at a flow of 450 – 500 cubic feet per second.

What is involved in a kayak test?
One should have a good brace. The East Race is not the place for first time kayakers.

Is there a place to rent kayaks?
Not on the premises.

Is there a kayak club? Please contact Greg Rex: gorex@comcast.net

Are there changing rooms? No, but a handicap accessible portable restroom facility is available along with an outdoor rinse shower.

Will I get wet?
Yes. It is recommended that you bring an extra set of clothes (e.g. socks, shorts, t-shirt, shoes) and towels. An old pair of shoes is recommended. FLIP FLOPS ARE NOT ALLOWED. SHOES MUST TIE OR HAVE A HEEL STRAP.