Wild Acres began as a 83-acre tract of land once owned by the Shakers, who built its pond. After the 80-year tenure of the Shakers, it was sold to a private owner who added log cabins and concrete dams to the pond.  In 1929, the property was opened as a private outdoors recreation and sportsman's club. Eventually the property was given to the city of Pittsfield, who placed it under the purview of the Conservation Commission, who oversaw extensive construction of buildings, recreational amenities and picnic areas in the 1970s.

A significant portion of the original Wild Acres area was claimed in 2007 for the eventual expansion of the city's municipal airport, and replaced by additional acreage of forest and farmland acquired by eminent domain. The Arbor Day celebration marked the debut of the newly installed pavilion, accessible bathrooms, and a small cabin for educational field trips and programs.