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Deering Wildflower Acres, named after Tam and Ivah Deering, was originally established 1968 as a survey site for biologists from Western Washington University. Here, they studied to determine, among other things, the effects of municipal development on the nearby natural environment. To help accomplish these goals, classes from the university and local schools would come to the Wildflower Acres to perform research on the local ecosystem. To ensure scientific studies were successful, the park was closed to the public. In 1996, Western Washington University deeded the park and its 30 acres to the City of Marysville. It is now open to the public until dusk.
The park name was taken from the variety of wildflowers which the Deering's grew throughout the park. These included delicate trilliums, queen's cup, dog tooth violets, wild ginger, and yellow lupine. Markers have been placed and identify the trees growing throughout the park, including red alder, western redcedar, western hemlock, black cottonwood, and Douglas fir. The trails are also lined with red elderberry, devil's club, salmonberry, red huckleberry, and vine maple.
The network of trails total up to two miles, with a few benches and viewing areas scattered throughout. The trails are well marked, and there is a custom made sign at every junction to prevent travelers from getting lost. In order to protect and maintain the delicate ecosystem, no food or dogs are allowed in park boundaries.
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