5 Metro Parks to Explore This Summer
Anita Graves
Anita Graves is a lifelong resident of the Columbus area with a few years away supporting her husband while he served in the Military...
Anita Graves is a lifelong resident of the Columbus area with a few years away supporting her husband while he served in the Military...
Summer is officially in full swing! Many of us have decided to skip our typical vacation destinations in favor of a "staycation" this year. But we're in luck. We've got some of the best parks in the country and now is a great time to explore them! For a full list of Central Ohio's Metro Parks click HERE.
1. Slate Run Park and Historical Farm
Slate Run park offers a 1,705-acre park with a variety of habitats and many wildlife spotting opportunities. Make it a full day trip and stop by the Slate Run Historical Farm to experience what life was like on an1880s Ohio farm.
2. Pickerington Ponds
With more than 260 species of birds seen, this is a great spot for the novice or experienced birdwatcher. Deer, beaver, fox and other wildlife can be seen near the ponds and adjoining woods and fields of this 1,608 acre park.
3. Rocky Fork
Explore three miles of walking trails through 1,000 acres of forest and fields at Rocky Fork Park in Westerville. With a dog park and an off-leash trail for dogs, play area and picnicking, this park has something for everyone!
4. Clear Creek
Home to Ohio's largest state nature preserve, Clear Creek Metro Park features 5,300 acres of woodland interspersed with blackhand sandstone cliffs, ravines and creeks and is home to more than 2,200 species of plants and animals.
5. Three Creeks
Named for the point where Alum, Big Walnut and Blacklick creeks join, this 1,100 acre park is home to more than 100 species of birds including owls and great blue herons . Visitors may catch a glimpse of beaver, mink, coyote and deer.