Connecting People with Nature

Toledo Metroparks

Formed in 1928, Metroparks of the Toledo Area is one of the oldest and best park districts in Ohio. The park district manages land as parks and nature preserves throughout Lucas County, in Northwest Ohio. While mainly natural lands, many of the Toledo Metroparks also interpret the interesting and significant local history as well. We hope you take the time to explore the Toledo Metroparks. The listing here is a menu of their parks with a brief tidbit about each. To learn more, click on the links, which will take you to the official Toledo Metroparks web page for more information.

Bend View
This park is only accessible by taking the Towpath trail from Farnsworth, about 2 miles away. Here you will find what is reputed to be the best view of the Scenic Maumee River.

Farnsworth
This Metropark along the Maumee River is a great place to access the Miami and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, or to enjoy views of the Maumee River and its islands.

Oak Openings Preserve
In Swanton, Ohio, this Toledo Metropark protects a vital portion of Ohio's Oak Openings region. Home to over 180 species of rare and sensitive species that thrive in the sandy habitat, you can experience the Oak Openings on over 50 miles of trails.

Pearson
The Metropark protects a portion of the Great Black Swamp. Most of the swamp was drained, but at Pearson, you can see what it may have looked like before humans ditched, dredged and destroyed the natural filtration system of Lake Erie.

Providence Metropark
The Toledo Metropark, located at Grand Rapids on the Maumee River, is a tribute to the Miami and Erie Canal. The canal itself, several historical buildings, and a working water powered mill are highlights that make this park worth visiting.

Secor
The Toledo Metropark, located in Berkey, Ohio, is a great place to observe a fine forested wetland complex. Check out the wonderful nature photo center if you visit on a weekend, or Labor Day, Memorial Day or Independence Day.

Side Cut
Side Cut Metropark is located along a feeder of the Miami and Erie Canal that connected Maumee to the main of the canal. Historical structures such as canal locks are preserved along the old waterway. Good fishing and scenic views of the Maumee River are hallmarks of this oldest of Toledo's metroparks.

Swan Creek Preserve
This urban park south of Toledo is a teeming habitat for wetland and forest plants and animals. The bottomland forests of the park are a peaceful repite from our busy lives.

Wildwood Preserve
This Toledo Ohio park is a great place to see prairie plant and animal species, as well as some historical buildings, and views of the Ottawa River.

For more information about Metroparks of the Toledo Area, visit their website.

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