Nelson Township is on the edge of Grand Rapids' expansion
Nelson Township is on the north side of Kent County, where stretches of uninterrupted farmland surround the small community of Cedar Springs. Grand Rapids is 30 minutes south along the highway, but the major city's growth has yet to reach this far north. "Cedar Springs is what Rockford was 10 years ago," says Curtis Gross, a local Realtor with Re/Max United. "This area is the next step for development as Grand Rapids runs out of space to grow." But for now, Nelson residents enjoy large yards, a small-town community and a CAP Index Crime Score of 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4. With preservation guidelines in place to protect the area's farmland, it's unlikely that large-scale developments will fully pave over this rural way of life anytime soon.
Larger, newer homes are beginning to mix in amongst the older ones along the water.
The majority of the area is covered in farms, most of which grow corn.
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Most homes are far apart, with large yards and waterfront views
With the exception of some compact communities clustering around Cedar Springs and Sand Lake, homes in Nelson Township are spread far apart, often on several acres of land. There are also several lakes within the township, offering properties with private docks and waterfront views. "It's a more easily obtainable market than the Rockford area," Gross says. "You can still find a home in the $200,000 to $300,000 range." There are primarily rustic ranch styles from the mid to late 1900s in that price range. From $300,000 to $400,000, there's a mix of modern construction and large older farmhouses. Once prices get up to $500,000 to $600,000, homes are custom-built and set back on private driveways. All properties use well water and private septic systems. Internet broadband coverage can be limited.
You can find large and ranch-style homes mixed in throughout the area.
There are a few newer home communities being built in the area near Highway 131.
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City amenities and plenty of red flannel shirts in Cedar Springs
The city of Cedar Springs is located at the southwest corner of the township and is a regional hub for the area. A walkable downtown has a movie theater, boutiques and local restaurants. The popular Cedar Springs Brewing Company makes beers in the traditional Bavarian style, complemented by generous portions of German pub food. The city also has a public library, a Meijer and the Cedar Springs Health Center. For over 85 years, the community around Cedar Springs has come together for the annual Red Flannel Festival, when everyone dons their favorite red shirt for a weekend of parades, live music and food vendors.
Cedar Springs Brewing Company is a great place for Nelson Township folks to meet up for a drink.
Nelson Township residents head to downtown Cedar Springs and the Kent Theatre for entertainment.
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Small-town community in Sand Lake known for Fourth of July activities
Sand Lake is a much smaller community on the north side of Nelson. It has a few restaurants, a Family Dollar and the Nelson Township Public Library. The namesake lake is open for boating and fishing but is mainly used by those who live along the shore, with only one small public boat launch. Sand Lake is best known for its Fourth of July festival.
Cedar Springs schools are located on one main campus
Cedar Springs Public Schools serves most of the township. Kindergarten to first graders attend Cedar Trails Elementary, and second to third graders attend Beach Elementary. Both schools receive a B grade from Niche. Fourth and fifth graders attend Cedar View Elementary, which is rated B-minus. Cedar Springs Middle and Cedar Springs High schools both receive a B grade. Most of the school buildings are located on one campus, making it convenient for parents to pick up kids of different ages. The district partners with Kent ISD, a regional education agency that offers college courses, career internships and student support.
Cedar Trails Elementary in Cedar Springs is an above-average rated school on niche.com.
Cedar Springs High School has a student-to-teacher ratio of 23 to 1.
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The paved White Pine Trail connects the community
The White Pine Trail runs through Nelson Township, passing Sand Lake and Cedar Springs. This paved pathway stretched 92 miles from the outskirts of Grand Rapids north to Cadillac. Gordon Park is a local White Pine trailhead with a playground and bathrooms. Around Cedar Springs, youth sports leagues use soccer fields and baseball diamonds. Sharpshooters can practice their shot at the Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club, and golfers can tee off at the 18-hole Cedar Chase Golf Club.
Crossing right through the area is the 92 mile long White Pine Trail.
Salisbury Park in Nelson Township has a lot of green space and play areas for local kids.
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Thirty minutes to Grand Rapids, less than an hour to Big Rapids
Nelson Township is just over 25 miles from downtown Grand Rapids via U.S. Route 131. The trip typically takes 30 minutes but can get up to 45 minutes with rush hour traffic. To get to the Grand Rapids International Airport, residents must pass through Grand Rapids, about a 35-mile trip. The smaller city of Greenville is about 20 miles away, offering grocery stores and a hospital. When heading north, Nelson Township is 35 miles from Big Rapids, a common launch point to explore the lakes, forests and hunting grounds of rural West Michigan.
Photography Contributed By
Tyler Bolduc
Video By
Jacob McAllister
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Beautifully rebuilt ranch offering the feel of new construction with the space & privacy of 2 peaceful acres! Inside you'll find luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh paint & a stunning new kitchen with quartz countertops, white shaker cabinetry, subway tile backsplash & pantry. Spacious primary suite features a walk-in closet & updated ensuite, plus 2 additional bedrooms, full bath & main-floor
Welcome to 13955 Pine Lake Avenue, where peaceful country living, versatile outdoor space, and four-season recreation come together on approximately 2.3 acres in Cedar Springs. Built in 1995 and offering 1,780 finished square feet, this well-maintained, move-in-ready three-bedroom, two-bath home provides a comfortable and flexible layout, an attached two-car garage, and a setting that feels
151ft of road frontage - Nearly 16 Acres of Buildable Wooded Paradise in Cedar Springs Unlock the potential of this rare, nearly 16-acre wooded property in Cedar Springs—private, peaceful, and full of opportunity. Whether you're looking to build your dream home, develop multiple sites, or harvest timber for profit, this versatile land offers endless possibilities. Photos coming soon! Wander
GREAT FIND: WOW to this one; (pics on inside in process-total remodel, seller just finishing remodeling) complete retune/very well done/sharp/modern and room to add a bedroom, or lease as is with a large living room. Very nice/neat/sharp/convenient layout/ and very well insulated, opening off to a large deck facing the east, off to the left to the -3 car plus pole barn/garage, with a lot of
Discover the perfect canvas for your custom home on this 2.03 +/- acre wooded parcel (subject to survey and township approval). Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this property offers the ultimate in privacy and a peaceful nature-filled setting. Located within the Cedar Springs school district, the lot features desirable sandy soils favorable for both drainage and construction. For
Mark HoskinsBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate (Rock)
Here's an opportunity to own just under 5 acres of partially clear and wooded land - use for either recreational/ hunting purposes or a private building sit. Cedar Springs School District. Schedule a showing to walk the land today! LAND HAS NOT BEEN PERKED.
Here's an opportunity to own just under 5 acres of partially clear and wooded land - use for either recreational/ hunting purposes or a private building sit. Cedar Springs School District, in the process of being perked with Kent County. Schedule a showing to walk the land today! LAND HAS NOT BEEN PERKED.
Rare Multi-Unit Investment Opportunity on 1.67 AcresDiscover versatile income potential with this unique multi-dwelling property perfectly situated between Cedar Springs and Sand Lake. The main residence is an updated duplex featuring a 2-bedroom, 1-bath unit and a 1-bedroom, 1-bath unit. Major updates provide peace of mind, including a new roof (2023) and two new gas water heaters (2023).
Mark HoskinsBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate (Rock)
Charming 1870 Farmhouse on 20 acres in Cedar Springs. Restored & remodeled over the years this unique home still retains its original character and architecture details inside & out - wood beams, tongue & groove interior wainscotting, hardwood flooring. Lovely historic colors highlight exterior details white trimmed decks, clay pediments and a large rear porch over looks pool and deck. A rustic 2
Enjoy this beautiful, peaceful setting with rolling hills, sandy soil, and a pond. This 2.64 acres has wooded areas along with open spaces. The best of both worlds. Buildable land with views of Cook and White Lake. Schedule your showing today!
Welcome to 16300 Myers Lake Ave -- a truly unique opportunity in the Cedar Springs School District! This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sits on over 6 acres of beautiful rolling wooded hills, offering privacy, space, and a peaceful country setting. Enjoy relaxing or entertaining year-round on the awesome back porch, complete with a TV setup for game days, gatherings, or quiet evenings outdoors. The
Discover the perfect canvas for your custom home on this 2.03 +/- acre wooded parcel (subject to survey and township approval). Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this property offers the ultimate in privacy and a peaceful nature-filled setting. Located within the Cedar Springs school district, the lot features desirable sandy soils, favorable for both drainage and construction. For
Mark HoskinsBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate (Rock)
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