Since 1963, Five Rivers MetroParks has been protecting open space and natural areas covering over 16,000 acres of land in Dayton. The MetroParks were formed by a group of friends who saw how quickly Dayton was growing and wanted to protect the land for generations to come.
Where are the Five Rivers MetroParks?
From Vandalia to Germantown, Five Rivers MetroParks are throughout the entire Dayton region. 18 parks include Aullwood, RiverScape, Cox Arboretum, Carriage Hill, Deeds Point, Eastwood, Englewood, Island, Germantown, Huffman, Hills & Dales, Twin Creek, Taylorsville, Sunrise, Sugar Creek, Possum Creek, Wegerzyn Gardens and Wesleyan.
What is the MetroParks mission?
Five Rivers MetroParks protects and manages five primary habitat types: forest, edge/thicket (young forest), grassland, wetland and aquatic areas. Staff develops habitat management plans for each park and conservation area to guide land protection and restoration.
What types of events are held at Five Rivers MetroParks?
Five Rivers MetroParks is home to many family events hosted throughout the year including the 2nd Street Market and DJ Disco Nights! Children love the outdoor programs like Bees Buzz For Us, My First Leaf Collection, Garden Helpers and more! Summertime at Five Rivers MetroParks is a blast. Dance the day away during the Summer Music Series, learn something new at summer camp, explore the Carriage Hill Historical Farm, help find native bats and splash in the interactive fountains.
Winter in the Five Rivers MetroParks is just as impressive! RiverScape MetroPark transforms into a wintery wonderland with ice skating. Activities at the rink include curling, broomball, theme nights like 90s Night, Dayton Funk, Diva Night, Sweetheart Deal and more. Take a winter hike at Englewood MetroPark, the 0.5-mile blue trail takes you along the boardwalk where you may see a frozen waterfall; head to the nature play area for bonus fun!
Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience, October 7, 2023
Held annually, the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience is one to put on the calendar. Located at Eastwood MetroPark, more than 25,000 festival goers attend to enjoy numerous outdoor activities, live entertainment, competitions and more. “During the pandemic, so many people found safe ways to stay active and work on their well-being. We want to help people keep that connection going by celebrating health, happiness and adventure in the great outdoors.” Angela York, special events coordinator.
Lets explore!
MetroParks’ new program, Let’s Explore, makes it easier for you to spend time with your kids outdoors. Visit the nature play areas at Sugarcreek, Possum Creek, Hills & Dales, and Englewood MetroParks for self-guided activities, such as Wildlife Warm Up, Hike & Seek, and Tic Tac Toe.
For a full list of Five Rivers MetroParks’ locations, visit here!
