This hotspot was formerly known as Rentschler Forest Preserve and Miami and Erie Canal.

With almost 400 acres the Rentschler Forest MetroPark includes about a half-mile frontage along the Great Miami River, acres of woodland, remnants of the old Miami-Erie Canal, a prehistoric Indian earthwork, a reconstructed wetland, and ample opportunities for a wide variety of outdoor recreation activities. Many picnic sites, four covered picnic shelters, children’s play areas, soccer fields, a youth group camping area, and miles of hiking trails are found here. The Great Miami River Recreation Trail is accessible by the lower parking lot that connects to Hamilton. There will be an eventual extension through the park and along the river corridor to Middletown. New flush restrooms are also available thanks to a grant that enabled the Stone House to be re-purposed for this important amenity.

• Almost 400 acres
• Access to the Great Miami River Recreation Trai — opened in June 2012!
• Hiking trails
• Great Miami River access
• Historic canal stone house
• Picnic areas

A motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park site. Butler County residents may receive a permit fee-free. Other guests may purchase an annual permit for only $10.

Rentschler Forest MetroPark Trails
Trails at Rentschler Forest MetroPark include:
Wetland Loop – 0.6 miles
Pumpkin Vine Trail – 1 mile
Cascades Trail – 0.9 miles
Canal Tow Path – 1 mile
Earthworks Trail – 1.2 miles
Pond Trail – 1.3 mile

A description with a map of a hike on the trails at Rentschler Forest MetroPark is on AllTrails website.