Blues Creek Preserve

Blues Creek Preserve

9627 Fontanelle Road Ostrander, Ohio 43061

Official Website
Blues Creek Preserve map

About this Location

Prairies, a sparkling creek, forested areas, and wetlands characterize Blues Creek, which is named for the creek that meanders along the park’s northern edge. In late summer and early fall, the prairies are vibrant with bright yellow, purple, and white flowers, interspersed with tall prairie grasses. The prairie areas are surrounded by mature woodlands, and areas that have been reforested.

Foxes, pheasants, kestrels, meadowlarks, and American woodcock might all be seen during walks along the 2.5 miles of trails, and the restored wetlands attract the vociferous spring peepers and other frogs. Among the insect species, painted lady butterflies can be spotted, and the prairies will be full of orb-weaving spiders hoping to ensnare their prey.

Special features of the park include a catch-and-release fishing pond for all ages, which allows park visitors to learn and participate in a sport they can enjoy their entire lives. No license is required to fish in this pond. The hill in the center of the park is a sled hill on snowy days and, all year round provides an expansive view of the park. There also are two picnic shelters that can be rented.

Blues Creek Preserve was acquired at a public auction in 1993 with funds provided by an anonymous donor. The original purchase was 97.5 acres, and an adjoining 40.9 acres were acquired in 1999. The park was opened to the public in 2001.

Notable Trails

Blues Creek Preserve Trails
Hiking trails at Blues Creek Preserve include:
Shagbark Loop Trail – 1.1 miles – gravel
Bluestem Trail – .3 mile – grass
Fox Run Trail – .5 mile – grass
Meadowlark Trail – .5 mile – grass

Features

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Entrance fee

Content from Official Website

Last updated August 15, 2023