NORTHWEST OHIO
Berkey Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Secor Metropark
NATURE & HIKING TRAILS | BERKEY OH
Secor Metropark is a 623-acre natural oasis in Berkey, Ohio. Known for its diverse ecosystems, the park features prairies, oak savannas, and wetlands. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, observe wildlife, and enjoy picnic areas. The park's Window on Wildlife offers year-round bird watching opportunities.
2. Oak Openings Preserve Metropark
OUTDOOR RECREATION | SWANTON OH
Oak Openings Preserve Metropark is a 5,000-acre park near Berkey, featuring rare oak savanna ecosystems. Visitors can explore over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
3. National Center for Nature Photography
PHOTOGRAPHY & NATURE | BERKEY OH
The National Center for Nature Photography, located in Secor Metropark, showcases stunning nature photography. This unique gallery features rotating exhibits of work by renowned photographers, highlighting the beauty of local and national landscapes. The center also offers workshops and educational programs for photography enthusiasts.
4. Wiregrass Lake Metropark
FISHING & BOATING | HOLLAND OH
Wiregrass Lake Metropark offers a serene 121-acre lake perfect for fishing and non-motorized boating. The park features accessible fishing platforms, a boat launch, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy catch-and-release fishing for bass, catfish, and panfish, or explore the surrounding trails for birdwatching and nature observation.
5. Kitty Todd Nature Preserve
RARE ECOSYSTEMS | SWANTON OH
Kitty Todd Nature Preserve protects 1,000 acres of globally rare habitats in the Oak Openings region. This unique preserve is home to over 40 rare species of plants and animals. Visitors can explore hiking trails through prairies and oak savannas, observing diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitats.
6. Fossil Park
PALEONTOLOGY ADVENTURE | SYLVANIA OH
Fossil Park in Sylvania offers a unique opportunity to dig for 375-million-year-old fossils from the Devonian period. This 5-acre park allows visitors to search for and keep fossils of ancient marine life. The site provides educational displays, picnic areas, and guided programs for an engaging paleontological experience.
7. Providence Metropark
HISTORICAL CANAL EXPERIENCE | GRAND RAPIDS OH
Providence Metropark offers a step back in time with its restored 1800s canal town experience. Visitors can ride a mule-drawn canal boat through a restored lock, explore the Providence Dam, and visit the Ludwig Mill. The park also features hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas along the Maumee River.
8. Wildwood Preserve Metropark
HISTORIC ESTATE & TRAILS | TOLEDO OH
Wildwood Preserve Metropark, spanning 493 acres, features the historic Stranahan estate and diverse natural habitats. Visitors can tour the Georgian colonial mansion, explore 12 miles of trails through meadows and forests, and enjoy art exhibits. The park offers year-round programs, including guided nature walks and seasonal events.
9. Side Cut Metropark
RIVER RECREATION | MAUMEE OH
Side Cut Metropark, located along the Maumee River, offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially during the spring walleye run. The park features restored canal locks, hiking trails, and scenic river views. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, wildlife observation, and seasonal events like the popular Walleye Festival.
10. Toledo Botanical Garden
FLORAL DISPLAYS & ART | TOLEDO OH
Toledo Botanical Garden showcases 60 acres of display gardens and plant collections. Visitors can explore themed gardens, including the Green Garden, Perennial Garden, and Pioneer Garden. The park also features art sculptures, a conference center, and hosts various events like the Crosby Festival of the Arts.
Berkey Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN BERKEY
Berkey, Ohio, a small village in Lucas County, is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Nestled in the heart of the Oak Openings region, Berkey offers visitors a chance to explore unique ecosystems and enjoy various outdoor activities.
The crown jewel of Berkey is Secor Metropark, a 623-acre natural oasis that showcases the area's diverse habitats. This park features prairies, oak savannas, and wetlands, providing visitors with miles of hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife observation. The Window on Wildlife in Secor Metropark is a popular spot for year-round bird watching.
Adjacent to Berkey is the expansive Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, which offers over 5,000 acres of rare oak savanna ecosystems. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The preserve is also home to diverse plant and animal species, making it a prime destination for nature photographers and researchers.
Berkey is also home to the National Center for Nature Photography, located within Secor Metropark. This unique gallery showcases stunning nature photography exhibits and offers workshops for photography enthusiasts. With its proximity to these natural wonders and educational facilities, Berkey serves as a gateway to exploring the rich biodiversity of Northwest Ohio.