The Chicago Park District acquired this once-vacant lot for recreational use in 1969, and officially named it Moccasin Ranch in 1998. The Moccasin Ranch is a collection of stories about life in the Mississippi Valley penned by Hamlin Garland (1860-1940), a significant figure in the Chicago Literary Movement. After gaining initial fame through Moccasin Ranch, Garland published more than a dozen novels, many of which focused on the Midwest. Garland, who lived near the park site at 6427 South Greenwood, is now regarded as one of Chicago's most important authors.

Located in the Woodlawn neighborhood, Moccasin Ranch Park is an idyllic recreational location for families to spend a portion of their day relaxing, enjoying nature and the outdoors. This park is 0.20 acres and it contains a playground with swings, slides, and climbing elements.