Slate Run Metro Park photo
ParkOhio, US

Slate Run Metro Park

Slate Run Metro Park offers a unique blend of nature and living history in central Ohio.

About

Slate Run Metro Park offers a unique blend of nature and living history in central Ohio. Spanning 1,705 acres, this Metro Park is a tapestry of diverse landscapes, from tranquil grasslands and dense hardwood forests to a significant wetland refuge and a serene lake. Its most distinguishing feature is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, an authentic recreation of an 1880s Ohio farm where visitors can step back in time.

The park's crown jewel, the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, is home to a variety of heritage farm animals, including Percheron horses, pigs, geese, turkeys, chickens, cows, and sheep, with baby animals often present in the spring. Beyond the farm, the 156-acre wetland refuge is a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting over 200 observed bird species, including nesting Sandhill Cranes and reintroduced Northern Bobwhite Quail. Buzzard's Roost Lake provides opportunities for fishing for bluegill and largemouth bass, while over seven miles of trails wind through forests, meadows, and lead to the charming Blackburn Covered Bridge.

A visit to Slate Run Metro Park promises a rich and varied experience, making it a memorable destination for all ages. Whether you're seeking hands-on interactions with farm animals, peaceful strolls through diverse ecosystems, or keen birdwatching opportunities, the park delivers. Its commitment to preserving both natural habitats and historical practices, coupled with free admission, makes it an accessible and rewarding escape into Ohio's natural and agricultural heritage. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.

and agricultural heritage enthusiasts * Nature photography

What to do here

Explore the gardens, barns, and farmhouse at the Living Historical Farm, observing costumed staff perform daily chores and feeding animals.

* Hike the park's diverse trail system, ranging from easy boardwalks to challenging ravine descents through forests, grasslands, and meadows.

* Go birdwatching in the wetlands, utilizing observation decks and spotting scopes to view sandhill cranes, bobwhite quail, and numerous other avian species.

* Fish for bluegill and largemouth bass in Buzzard's Roost Lake.

* Enjoy a picnic at one of the equipped picnic areas, some with playgrounds for children.

Seasonal info

Winter: Farm grounds and barn are open, but some buildings and activities may be limited. Good for viewing wintering birds like Northern Harriers in the wetlands.

Spring: Baby animals are often born at the Living Historical Farm, and excellent bird migration can be observed, including warblers and American woodcock displays.

Summer: Enjoy grassland bird species along the Bobolink Trail and explore the natural play areas.

Fall: Pleasant weather for hiking and enjoying fall foliage.

Trails, especially in the wetlands and grasslands, can become muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Accessibility

The Bobolink Grassland Trail and Lake Trail are ADA accessible. Some main paths at the Living Historical Farm are generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Accessible swings are available at the Buzzard's Roost playground.

Don't miss

1

Slate Run Living Historical Farm

Experience 1880s farm life, interact with heritage animals, and explore the historic 1856 farmhouse.

2

Slate Run Wetlands Wildlife Refuge

A 156-acre haven for over 200 bird species, accessible via the Kokomo Wetland Trail with observation decks.

3

Buzzard's Roost Lake

A 14-acre lake stocked for fishing, featuring children's fishing docks and a lakeside boardwalk.

4

Blackburn Covered Bridge

A beautifully restored 1895 covered bridge along an easy, charming trail.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Wear appropriate footwear

Trails can be uneven, and grass trails, especially in the wetlands, can get quite muddy after rain. Closed-toe, sturdy shoes are highly recommended.

Pack a picnic

The park does not have on-site restaurants or food vendors, but offers numerous picnic areas and shelters for a relaxing meal amidst nature.

Visit the farm early

To experience the most authentic 1880s farm life, arrive in the morning to witness staff performing daily chores and feeding the animals.

Bring binoculars

With over 200 bird species recorded, binoculars will greatly enhance your birdwatching experience, especially at the wetland observation decks where permanent spotting scopes are also available.

Check seasonal hours

While the park is open daily from 6:30 AM to dark, the Living Historical Farm's specific hours and activity availability can vary seasonally, with some buildings closed in winter. Check the official Metro Parks website before your visit.

Plan for multiple visits

Slate Run Metro Park is expansive and diverse; it's difficult to see everything in one trip. Consider focusing on one main area per visit, such as the farm, the wetlands, or a specific trail system.

Frequently asked questions

No, Slate Run Metro Park and its Living Historical Farm are free to visit, making it an accessible destination for outdoor activities and historical exploration.
At the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, visitors can observe a variety of heritage farm animals common to the 1880s, including Percheron horses, pigs, geese, turkeys, chickens, cows, and sheep. During springtime, you might also see adorable baby lambs and other young animals.
Yes, leashed dogs (on a leash no longer than 6 feet) are permitted in picnic areas, parking lots, and on specific trails such as the Covered Bridge Trail, Lake Trail, and Shagbark Trail.

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