Big Creek Park 9160 Robinson Road, Chardon Directions From I-90: Exit I-90 at Route 44. Travel south 3.2 miles to Clark Road. Turn east onto Clark Road, and travel 2 miles. Turn right onto Robinson Road. Travel .8 mile to park entrance. From I-422: Exit I-422 at Route 44. Travel north 14 miles to Chardon Square. Continue around Chardon Square to North Street. Travel north 1.2 miles to Woodin Road. Turn east onto Woodin Road, travel .8 mile to Robinson Road. Turn north, travel 1 mile on Robinson Road to park entrance. Go to website http://www.co.geauga.oh.us/departments/park_district.htm for more information. In 1955, 505 acres of land were donated to the State of Ohio by the Samuel Livingston Mather family. Ten years later, Geauga Park District entered into a lease agreement with the State for the property, creating Big Creek Park; in 1990, the State of Ohio officially transferred ownership of the park to Geauga Park District. NATURAL FEATURES: 642 acres, primarily covered with a mature beech-maple forest, bisected by Big Creek. There are 3 ponds and many small streams in the upland area that expose glacial deposits and bedrock. WILDLIFE: Bluegill and bass populations are strong in all three ponds. Many species of neotropical songbirds migrate from equatorial rainforests to nest in Big Creek Park, including scarlet tanagers, warblers and rose-breasted grosbeak. Wildlife watchers also enjoy spotting deer, turtles, beaver, frogs, squirrels, chipmunks and other small woodland animals. RECREATIONAL USES: 6.4 miles of trails, including 2 bridle paths and 2 paved all-peoples' trails, make Big Creek Park an excellent place for hiking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. Three picnic shelters and two primitive camp sites are also available. FACILITIES: The Donald W. Meyer Center, opened in 1991, features exhibits, classrooms and a wildlife feeding area. The building also serves as administrative headquarters for the Park District. In 1998 the addition of the Frances S. Hall Amphitheater expanded program opportunities to include outdoor films, concerts and other gatherings. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This 642-acre tract, primarily covered with a mature beech-maple forest, is bisected by Big Creek. Many species of neotropical songbirds migrate from equatorial rainforests to nest in Big Creek Park; wildlife watchers also enjoy spotting deer, turtles, beaver and small woodland animals. An extensive trail system makes Big Creek Park a hiker's dream, while others enjoy horseback riding, picnicking, cross-country skiing, camping, and fishing in one of three ponds. Primitive camp sites and picnic shelters can be reserved by calling the park office. Camping permit applications and shelter reservations must be made at least ten days in advance; fees are based upon residency and type of use. Unreserved shelters can be used by the general public on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping is available by pre-arranged permit only. History In 1926 Samuel Livingston Mather purchased almost 1000 acres of land in Chardon Township with hopes of creating a high class resort. However, the onset of the Depression shattered his dreams. Because of Mather's desire to see the area preserved, 505 acres of land were donated to the State of Ohio in 1955. After its creation, the Geauga Park District entered into a lease agreement with the State in 1965. Several adjoining parcels were later acquired to bring the total to 642 acres. In 1990 the State of Ohio officially transferred ownership of the leased portion to the Geauga Park District. Natural Habitats Most of the park is forested with a rich beech-maple woods carpeted with colorful wildflowers in spring. Numerous species of song birds migrate from the tropics to nest in this mature forest which also shelters many kinds of woodland animals among the trees. The uplands are divided by small streams exposing glacial deposits and bedrock in their ravines. Where the valley of Big Creek narrows, hemlock trees line the cool steep slopes. Distinctive plant species are found on the clay slumps and along flood plain areas. Facilities The Donald W. Meyer Center is the focal point of Big Creek Park. With its exhibits, classrooms, and wildlife feeding area, this nature center and administrative building offers visitors unique opportunities appreciate the natural history of Geauga County. Camping is available by permit throughout the year at two primitive sites Fishing Fishing for bluegill and bass can be enjoyed on Chestnut, Wild Goose, and Tupelo Ponds. Fish may be taken only with rod and reel or cane pole; a current Ohio fishing license is required in accordance with state regulations. Boating and wading are not permitted, nor is the collection of live bait within the park. Trails A 6.4 mile network of trail loops in the vicinity of the picnic and parking areas provides a variety of options for enjoying the surrounding forest afoot. The Creek Trail and Highline Trail are designed for horseback riding. Trails appropriate for cross-country skiing are marked. The paved Cascade Trail and Ruth Kennan Trail provide outdoor access for everyone A section of the Buckeye Trail, which encircles the State of Ohio, passes through Big Creek Park. Its path through the park is marked with blue blazes on trees. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discover Your Natural Heritage The mission of the Geauga Park District is to preserve, conserve and protect the natural features of Geauga County and to provide the opportunity for people to enjoy and appreciate those resources. The quality of life in Geauga County is inextricably linked to clean air, clean water and open space. Since the days of the early settlements in the early 1800's, the lands of the Western Reserve have been known for their lush greenery and abundant wildlife. The same natural features that attracted westward-bound pioneers continue to exist in parts of Geauga County today, making the area equally attractive to homeowners seeking a haven from the pressures of the modern world. For 40 years, Geauga Park District has worked to ensure that the most delicate ecosystems and the best park sites in the region remain protected from development while providing county residents the opportunity to enjoy the out-of-doors in a safe and wholesome atmosphere. As early as 1959, members of Geauga County's League of Women Voters and local garden clubs were concerned about the increasing rate of new construction in the area. If residents wanted to conserve the region's natural areas and provide protected habitat for its native plants and animals, the time had come. Encouraged by the success of nearby Cleveland Metroparks, League members created a park committee to study the needs of the county and the possibility of establishing a park district of our own. Geauga Park District was established in August, 1961 under authority of Chapter 1545 of the Ohio Revised Code. The first interpretive programs, a series of bird walks at Punderson State Park, were held in 1962; the 4-acre Woodin Road Park became the first park operated by the fledgling Park District in 1964. Since that time, Geauga Park District has grown steadily. From woodlands to wetlands, meadows and gently burbling streams, Geauga Park District has increased its holdings to nearly 5000 acres in eleven open parks, other preserves and future parks. These reservations are usually large undeveloped tracts of land devoted to conserving and preserving the forests, grasslands, marshes, geological features, rivers, lakes and ponds of the county; all are populated with abundant wildlife. Prime consideration is given to protecting natural aesthetic values and scenic landscapes. Amenities are provided on a small percentage of the land for passive recreational use, providing the opportunity for residents to enjoy the natural resources of the parks without diminishing their quality for future visitors. Hikers appreciate Geauga Park District's extensive network of trails, enabling visitors to learn more about native plant and animal life. Programs offered by Geauga Park District are designed to increase the public's knowledge of the natural and cultural heritage of the county. Throughout its history, Geauga Park District has remained committed to preserving the natural beauty of this corner of the Western Reserve. With the combined efforts of local residents and conservationists, these lands will remain as natural treasures for generations to come. Where Fun Comes Naturally! Geauga Park District has grown dramatically since the agency was established in 1961. From its beginning with the 4-acre Woodin Road Park, the first reservation operated by the fledgling system in 1964, to today's holdings of nearly 5000 acres in eleven open parks, other preserves and future parks, the mission of Geauga Park District has remained to preserve, conserve and protect the natural features of Geauga County and to provide the opportunity for people to enjoy and appreciate these resources