Best Parks Around Dayton, Ohio - Part 1
Some of the major cities in Ohio have metroparks and Dayton holds several of my all time favorite ones within the 5 Rivers Metroparks system. Step out of the hustle and bustle of city life and into these peaceful nature oases.
The system currently contains 18 parks and at the time of this writing, I've been to 12 of them. Each one that I've experienced has proven that you can receive a full blown nature encounter within an urban atmosphere. These parks are all very well maintained and best of all, admission is free!
There are many exciting activities to keep you occupied throughout the year no matter what the season. Hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, kayaking/canoeing, and taking a stroll through the gardens are just a few opportunities. History nerds will find something to learn about within several of the parks, there are plenty of picnic shelters to allow for a Sunday afternoon get-together or birthday party, and if you're a runner, many miles of trail running await. The Ohio River Road Runners Club puts on several races from 5K to 50K within a few of these parks as well. You can check those out here https://orrrc.org/
The metropark website can be found here https://www.metroparks.org/
Because there are so many metroparks, to discover, I have decided to break it down into various articles and while I do have favorites, these are not in any particular order. Part 1 in this series contains many of the can’t miss, heavy hitters so let’s dive in!
1. Englewood Metropark
This park is nestled in the town of Englewood, OH which is just west of Dayton and is very easy to get to since US-40 splits the park and I-70 runs through the southernmost part. The Stillwater River runs through this heavily wooded area and provides excellent opportunities for fishing, wading, hiking, and wildlife viewing. It's easy to forget you're in a major city while exploring deep in the woods here. Aullwood Garden Metropark borders this one, but we'll review that park here shortly.
How to Get There
Englewood Metropark actually has 4 different areas of the park and each has a separate parking area.
North Park
500 Old Springfield Rd., Vandalia, OH 45377
South Park
9331 Meeker Rd., Dayton, OH 45414
East Park
4361 W. National Rd., Vandalia, OH 45377
West Park
100 E. National Rd., Englewood, OH 45322
My Picks For Fun Activities
Fishing/Wading.
The Stillwater River has a great population of smallmouth bass along with rockbass, channel catfish, carp, and sunfish. The river is easily wadable and even without a fishing rod in hand, an abundance of aquatic life awaits to be discovered. There are ramps to put your kayak or canoe in too, both above and below the dam.
Hiking
There are a little over 10 miles of hiking trails especially on the east side of the park and none of these trails are difficult. Views of the Stillwater, a couple waterfalls, and various tree species can be seen including some very large oaks and sycamores.
Wildlife Viewing
If you're looking for a park to find wildlife, Englewood offers a higher chance of seeing something. In the water, a multitude of fish species, crawfish, salamanders, and frogs abound.
Outside of the water, you may encounter deer, raccoons, and rabbits to name a few. Birders will find quite the variety and if you're fortunate enough, you may see a bald eagle fishing. For the insect lovers, butterflies are plentiful in the wildflower fields along with various beetles and maybe even a praying mantis.
2. Germantown Metropark
Germantown Metropark is the northern park of a duo of parks which are technically connected via a connector trail with Twin Creek Metropark being the southern park. The town of Germantown, OH sits in between. It features a dam built in 1920 and a visitor center which are great staging areas for your next adventure.
The amazingly clear Twin Creek runs the full length of the park and is one of the cleanest waterways in the entire state. While the Twin is a major highlight, there are many other key sights and experiences which deserve some time in the limelight. Germantown Metropark really is a treasure within the 5 Rivers Metroparks system.
Additionally, there is an event called the Twin Valley Trail Challenge which takes place the first Saturday of June every year. It's a pretty cool event which gives hikers (or trail runners) the opportunity to cover the entire length of trails between both parks which when I did it in 2017, was 27.5 miles. Now it's 28.7 miles. For those who just want a shorter day, you can hike or run what you want and then be given a ride back to the originating trailhead. A couple aid stations help support water and snack needs. This event is entirely free, but donations are always appreciated!
Little did I know that participating in this challenge as a hiker would set the stage for becoming a runner and completing my first marathon later that year which ultimately led me into the crazy world of ultramarathons. For a guy who hated running in the military and said he'd never run again, all I can say is never say never...
https://www.metroparks.org/twin-valley-trail-challenge/
How to Get There
There are a lot of parking areas so I'll just include 2 here.
This is for the visitor center 6910 Boomershine Rd., Germantown, OH 45327
This is for the dam area 7481 Creek Rd., Germantown, OH 45327
My Picks For Fun Activities
Hiking/Trail Running and Backpacking
In my opinion, both of these parks have the best trails of all the 5 Rivers Metroparks. As for the Germantown side, many miles of hilly terrain, huge ancient oaks and sycamores, and beautiful creek views keep things interesting. There are flat areas too, but just remember, what goes down, must come up and sometimes that must be accomplished over and over.
The park duo allows for backpacking and overnight camping along the Twin Valley Trail. Both frontcountry and backcountry options are available with reasonable rates. Campsites are limited, but being that I’ve never camped here, I can’t attest to how quickly these sites fill up.
Fishing/Wading
I really enjoy fishing Twin Creek either by wading or kayak. Smallmouth are my main target species, but the usual rockbass, occasional largemouth, channel catfish, carp, crappie and sunfish are in there too. The water can be exceptionally clear which isn't very common in Ohio, especially during the warmer months.
3. Twin Creek Metropark
The namesake creek also runs the entire length of this 1000 acre park and the scenery is very similar to Germantown, but still very much it’s own experience. Don’t just go to one or the other, but rather check them both out! This is also the southern most park of the 5 Rivers Metroparks and the closest to Cincinnati.
How to Get There
Several parking areas ranging from creek access to high above the surrounding landscape are scattered about. I’ll just list 2 of them here.
Hopewell 8502 Chamberlain Rd., Franklin, OH 45005
High View 9688 Eby Rd., Germantown, OH 45327
My Picks for Fun Activities
With the risk of sounding redundant, all Twin Creek activities are akin to what Germantown has to offer. The hiking and fishing are both very good here. Two differing points of interest would be the Hopewell Native American mound and the Dogwood fishing pond.
4. Aullwood Garden Metropark
Aullwood essentially adjoins Englewood Metropark and is a wonderful oasis of plants and flowers. Whether you're a green thumb lover or not, it's a pretty place to check out. The 31 acre park is named after Marie Aull who was a local conservationist and this was her and her husband’s property that they had gardened and maintained for decades.
How to Get There
It's nestled directly across the street from Englewood Metropark.
955 Aullwood Rd., Dayton, OH 45414
My Picks For Fun Activities
Hiking and Photography
Take a stroll within the peaceful gardens and immerse yourself in a sea of green and an abundance of flowers. With all of these plants around, you can expect lots of birds and butterflies to be active during the warmer months.
5. Cox Arboretum Metropark
Cox Arboretum has been a family favorite for several years now and in our opinion, it's best to visit in mid spring when flowers are in full bloom. Unfortunately that's no secret and it tends to draw large crowds on the weekends Despite this, I still highly recommend making the trip! Even when it's crowded, it's still possible to get away from everyone by taking one of the "back" trails. Most people tend to not stray far from the entrance. Of course you don’t only have to target the spring as it’s a wonderful place to visit anytime of year. Winter included!
How to Get There
There is one entrance with a large lot just minutes off of I-75 making it a doable side excursion for anyone passing through the area.
6733 Springboro Pike, Dayton, OH 45449
My Picks For Fun Activities
Explore the many park features. With too many to list here, I'll just name a few.
The water garden and various ponds. Many aquatic plants, turtles, and fish can be found here.
The 45 foot tall treehouse offers a birds eye view of the park and surrounding area. No elevator here so prepare yourself for the climb.
The butterfly house is a screened in area which features native caterpillars and butterflies for close observation. Plan to hit this around mid summer for best results.
The huge variety of trees, flowers, and endless plants! You could spend hours here and still find something new hidden about. These also provide the perfect backdrop for family, senior, wedding, etc photos!
6. Taylorsville Metropark
If Englewood had a twin, it would be Taylorsville Metropark. The 2 parks are very similar in scenery and only about 15 minutes apart, but this one features the 160 mile Great Miami River. The similarities don’t end there as the Old National Road, also known as US-40, splits the park in 2 just as it does at Englewood.
How to Get There
Sitting at the crossroads of where I-75 and I-70 intersect gives it higher accessibility to locals and non-locals alike. There are 4 main sections of the park and each area has several parking options. The majority of people tend to gravitate towards the central parts of the park so if you’re vying for an opportunity at some hopeful solitude, check out the northeast side of the park. Below are the main 4 lots.
East Park
2101 U.S. 40, Vandalia, OH 45377
North Park
2005 U.S. 40, Vandalia, OH 45377
South Park
2000 U.S. 40, Vandalia, OH 45377
West Park
1200 Brown School Rd., Vandalia, OH 45377
My Picks For Fun Activities
Hiking
As with most of the other Dayton area metroparks, you can’t go wrong with hiking. The east side trails are our favorite getting a mix of both the deep woods as well as glimpses of the Great Miami River.
Fishing/Wading
I might sound like a broken record with all of the same activities, but the fishing is excellent here too. Smallmouth, rockbass, channel catfish, and sunfish are very common, but for the lucky angler, you might just hook into the elusive northern pike.
Great Miami River Trail
For those who prefer to walk without the risk of tripping hazards, the Great Miami River Trail is a fantastic way to take a stroll along the west side of the park on a paved bike path. This is just a small section of the trail that largely runs alongside the entire length of the Great Miami River, although there are still sections that have not been completed. Go back in time with this path as it follows along the historic Miami-Erie Canal and keep your eyes peeled for remnants.
Local Eats
All of this outdoor time and exploring will likely give you quite the appetite. Below are 2 quick and easy options to satisfy your hunger cravings.
Airline Dairy Creme
Situated in between both Englewood and Taylorsville, this ice creamery will provide a nice treat after playing hard all day at your favorite Dayton area metropark. The ice cream is all soft serve so nothing crazy, however, portions are good and prices are reasonable so no matter if you’re into sundaes, shakes, or cyclones, Airline Dairy Creme has your sweet treat cold and ready for you. Don’t want a treat? They have hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches and such too.
How to Get There
It conveniently sits right across the street from the Dayton International Airport in Vandalia, OH just north of US-40 and just west of I-75 making it a simple stop. They are closed Sunday and Monday, open from 10a to 9p Tuesday through Friday and 10a to 8p on Friday.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xagx3sKWz418NuWU7
J & E Rootbeer
A good old fashioned root beer stand awaits you just across the bridge from Middletown, OH and is the perfect stop for those who have visited the southern parks of Twin Creek or even Germantown. These types of stands can be hit or miss, but honestly J & E is one of the best we’ve ever eaten at. Highly recommend! It is setup for eating in your car and someone will come out to you to take your order, however, tables are available outside if you prefer to stretch your legs.
How to Get There
J & E Root Beer is located just minutes from Twin Creek Metropark at the intersection of Trenton - Franklin and Germantown Roads. They are open 11a to 8p everyday except Monday in which they are closed.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/DVPHt2XycEqJbpzq5
Conclusion
I hope this article has opened your eyes to some of the finest parks Dayton, OH has to offer. There are 12 more to showcase in the future although I have 6 more to check out before experiencing them all. Dayton does a phenomenal job upkeeping every one of these natural havens and it’s always exciting to visit one or more of them whenever I’m in the Dayton area. Go discover one today!
As always, B.E. Adventurous!