6 Parks in Delaware County You Need to Visit

Summer is almost here and we are all in the need of a little outdoor time. We are fortunate enough in Central Ohio to have many parks throughout the area that we can visit and explore. One area that stands out, in particular, is Delaware County. This nature lover’s paradise is situated just north of Columbus and is home to the Columbus Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, Ohio Wesleyan College, and much more.

The county boasts many beautiful nature preserves, state parks, and metro parks, making it a popular destination for hiking and camping for both local residents and travelers. Neighborhoods and communities in Delaware County are highly sought after due to their excellent school rankings, proximity to the city of Columbus, and the beautiful scenic areas. Take some time this summer to explore some of the parks in Delaware County. We’ve put together a list of some of the many parks you will want to make sure you visit.

Alum Creek State Park

If the water is what you want, then take a visit to Alum Creek. This state park has it all, camping, swimming, boating, fishing, and even a beach! The 3000 ft. lakefront beach is the perfect spot for a lazy Saturday. Take your boat for a spin in the Alum Creek Reservoir or make it a long weekend and stay at the Alum Creek campground with beautiful lake views and lots of fun time for the family. Learn more about Alum Creek State Park.

Delaware State Park

Just off U.S. 23 North is another popular destination, Delaware State Park. This park was built surrounding Delaware Lake and is a popular spot for boating, camping, swimming, and beachgoers. The park is full of natural wildlife and offers hiking trails perfect for exploring and for birdwatching. Get more information about Delaware State Park.

Deer Haven Preserve

Deer Haven Preserve is a 97-acre Preservation Park located in Liberty Township and Preservation Parks’ primary hub for nature programs and camps. Explore forest, pond, meadow, and wetland habitats all at this park. The park is home to the Amy Clark – Bader Bird Sanctuary and the perfect place to see some of the areas’ native and migrating bird populations. Walk one of the three trails offered at the park and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Shale Hollow

Featuring Shale Hollow Creek, Shale Hollow is the perfect place to spend a lazy summer afternoon. Spend the day wading in the creek, observing layers of shale, or enjoying the kids’ exploration area. Explore one of the park’s trails for views of shale cliffs, ravines, and woodlands. Plan a day to play in the water at Shale Hollow this summer.

Hogback Ridge Park

Visit Sunbury for this beautiful park featuring wooded trails meandering through a scenic ravine. This park is full of wildlife and perfect for stopping to view wildflowers and for bird watching. Take a ride on a horse on the park’s Equestrian Trail or enjoy the scenes on foot. You and your family will enjoy a relaxing day outdoors at Hogback Ridge Park!

Blues Creek Park

If you would like to enjoy a leisure day of fishing with the family without the hassle of getting a fishing license, enjoy the catch and release pond at Blues Creek Park in Ostrander. This is a great spot to take the kids to let them explore the great outdoors. The park also features 2.5 miles of grass walking trails, wildlife views, and picnic areas.

Highbanks

You won’t have to travel far outside the city to reach this Metro Park, but you will feel miles away. Located in Lewis Center, Highbanks is a 1200-acre park overlooking the Olentangy State Scenic River. This park features nature preserves, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, nature centers, picnic areas, natural play areas, and several trails ranging from easy to difficult hiking levels. There is so much to explore at Highbanks, you will want to visit over and over again. You and the family will truly be immersed in nature while spending a summer day at Highbanks. Learn more about Highbanks.

Delaware County is truly a great place to explore and to live. Rockford Homes is building in several communities throughout Delaware County including Terra Alta and more. For more information about Rockford Homes, visit our about page.