What to expect
Hatches Corners Metropark is a 202-acre preserve featuring a diverse mix of habitats, including 7,274 feet of frontage along Bear Creek, a tributary of Conneaut Creek. The property includes 34 acres of riparian wetlands, 78 acres of upland woodland, and a cultivated area transitioning into a 90-acre meadow that supports many Ohio-listed plant species. The park has two parking areas—one on Route 7 (Center Road) for trailer access and another at 5558 Hatches Corners Road. Improvements funded by a 2015 Placemaking Grant added a wood-chip trail, kiosk, and boardwalk crossings, while volunteers from the Ohio Horsemen’s Council helped establish bridle routes.
- Status & Access: Open — two parking areas (trailers must use Route 7 lot); temporary access changes possible due to road construction beginning August 11, 2025
- Trails & Access: Primitive trails, wood-chip trail, kiosk, and boardwalk crossings
- Nature Highlights: Bear Creek frontage, riparian wetlands, upland woodlands, and meadows with diverse flora, including Ohio-listed species
- Recreation: Hiking, birding, photography, horseback riding (bridle trail), leaf-peeping, picnicking, educational activities; hunting permitted for deer population management
- Facilities: Portable restroom, parking areas, kiosk, horse mounting platform & hitching post.
- Utilities: No water or electricity
- Future Plans: Development of approximately 20,000 feet of additional trails for birding, bridle riding, hiking, and educational use
