A guide to the best parks near campus
Westerville, Ohio is filled with an abundance of parks, gardens and greenspaces for everyone to enjoy. Not only are these parks beautiful, unique and exciting to explore, parks have been shown to lead to improved health and wellbeing.
In a world where screens tend to dominate everyday lives, getting out into nature can provide various benefits as parks give people the chance to pause, breathe and reconnect with the natural world. As fall colors begin to show around Westerville, now is the perfect time to explore nearby metro parks and gardens.
From cycling and fishing to running or leisurely walking, there are a multitude of parks to explore before the weather gets too chilly. Below is a list of a few great ones to check out within the Westerville area and beyond.
Inniswood Metro Gardens
Inniswood Metro Gardens has many beautiful gardens, wildflowers and plants of various species. There are also quite a few trails and paved pathways to check out, along with opportunities to spot wildlife dependent upon the seasons. Mostly flat, this is a good choice for anyone interested in a relaxing location to explore, go on a leisure walk and/or take in the nature and beauty of the outdoors.
Highbanks Metro Park
Highbanks is a wonderful park to check out anytime of the year, but especially during the fall season. The abundance of towering trees and shallow rivers make this a beautiful place to explore as the fall colors start to creep in on the trees. The park spans over 1,200 acres and there are plenty of trails to explore. This park is great for those interested in doing hikes, while also containing areas to sit, relax, read a book or have lunch. There are also plentiful picnic areas and chances to spot wildlife ranging from squirrels, birds and even turkey.
Alum Creek Park and Alum Creek Dam
Alum Creek Park is an ideal location for walking, boating and fishing.
“I actually do really like Alum Creek and Alum Creek Dam,” said junior Rachel Malek. “I live right next to it, so I walk there all the time.” Malek also said that one of her favorite qualities of the local parks are the opportunities to forage and go pawpaw picking.
“They are the only fruit native to Ohio, so that’s pretty cool,” Malek said.
Heritage Park
As one of the closest parks to the Otterbein campus, Heritage Park is easy to access with gorgeous views. It has plentiful sports fields, a large pond and hosts numerous events each season.
Rocky Fork Metro Park
As a winner of the 6th Annual Governor’s Award for Parks and Recreation in 2016, Rocky Fork Metro Parks is a greenspace that attracts many. The award was established in 2010 to recognize and honor a park, project or recreation program that has had a significant impact on the quality of life. Within the park, there are a multitude of opportunities for picnicking, biking and leisure walking.
Hocking Hills State Park
While this natural area is a bit outside the Westerville area, the views and landscape at Hocking Hills State Park can make it worth the trip.
“I do like it up there for how different levels you can go and do harder things with climbing, and you can also do some leisure walking,” said senior Faith Wilson. She also said she enjoys Old Man’s Cave the most.
Whispering Cave, also located within Hocking Hills State Park, was recognized by USA Today for its trails, waterfalls and environment. It placed number one on their list for the best hiking trails.
Each of these parks are interesting and enjoyable in their own ways. Students should consider getting outside and exploring the nature and natural beauty in Westerville. They may find something surprising, or even a new favorite park.
