Medina County Park District Will Celebrate Its 60th Anniversary in 2025
In 2025, Medina County Park District will proudly celebrate 60 years of enhancing the quality of all life through education, conservation, and the protection of natural resources. Established on April 19, 1965, the park district has become a beloved community resource, offering residents and visitors access to more than 22 park sites, over 50 miles of trails, and a variety of educational programs that inspire people of all ages to connect with nature. Over the decades, the park district has emerged as a leader in conservation, successfully acquiring and managing nearly 9,000 acres of protected land.
“We are incredibly proud to reach this milestone and are deeply grateful to the residents of Medina County who have supported our mission over the years,” said Medina County Park District Director Nathan Eppink. “This anniversary is not just a celebration of the past 60 years but a commitment to preserving our natural spaces for generations to come.”
To honor this milestone, the park district has planned a series of celebratory events and activities throughout the year, and a number of new park areas and amenities will be opening to the public.
Here’s a glimpse of some exciting capital projects planned for 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on additional initiatives coming this year!
Rivendell Nature Preserve - Westfield Center and Westfield Township
This 203-acre property was donated to the park district in 2022. Phase 1 of the nature preserve will open in late summer with parking, trails, restrooms, a fishing pond, and more.
Shotwell Gardens at Lake Medina - Medina Township
Over several years, the Shotwell family donated 25 acres at the corner of Foote and Weymouth Roads. Phase 1 of this new entrance to Lake Medina will open in October.
Chippewa Lake Park - Lafayette Township
Phase 1 of public access to the former amusement park property will open in October this year. It'll feature approximately one mile of aggregate trail, restrooms, and a picnic shelter. The trailhead will be built next to a house we're leasing to the Chippewa Lake Historical Society, which will establish a small museum there.
Liverpool Meadows Nature Preserve - Liverpool Township
Our first open area in Liverpool Township, this 104-acre preserve will feature a one-mile aggregate loop trail and views of the Rocky River.
The park district invites everyone to join in the celebration and looks forward to many more years of connecting people with nature. Visit the website and follow the park district on social media in the coming weeks and months for information about anniversary events and programs.
Cozy Game Night and Seed Packing with Wild Ones Greater Cleveland
Thursday, March 27
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The Lodge at Allardale
Gather with Wild Ones Greater Cleveland by the fire at the beautiful Lodge at Allardale for a cozy evening of fun and community! In partnership with Medina County Parks District, we'll be playing Nature Dads' newly released Native Plant Party card game, a 2-4 player game! "This fast and easy card game celebrates this in a straightforward and friendly competition: which player can invite the biggest party to their house before the time runs out?" Warm up with hot chocolate and snacks, and join us in packing seeds of multiple species that have already been harvested and cleaned, awaiting the final packaging for distribution to an increasing number of people eager to landscape with Ohio's own rich flora.
We will fill seed envelopes and label the envelopes while enjoying the companionship of like-minded people. You will also leave with sample packets of seeds we process and a good feeling about your concrete endeavor to fulfill our mission. This event is open for all, but the game is recommended for kids in 3rd grade and up. Don't miss this night of games, laughter, and connection!
Come celebrate Earth Day at Medina County Park District’s Buffalo Creek Retreat with earth‑friendly exhibits, a family fishing derby, kids’ activities, food, and much more! Additional parking for this event will be at Hubbard Valley Park with shuttle service provided to Buffalo Creek. All ages are welcome. No registration is required. Free.
Saturday, April 26
Buffalo Creek Retreat
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fish together with your family, hook some memories, and win prizes! Grab a rod and reel in an afternoon of fishing fun during Medina County Park District’s Family Fishing Derby! Parent/child teams can register and fish any time between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Registration during the derby is required to be eligible to win prizes. Please bring your own fishing pole. A limited amount of fishing poles and bait will be available for use. This derby is held in conjunction with Medina County’s Earth Day Festival. All ages are welcome. Free.
