The birding opportunities in Lorain County, especially during times of migration are nationally known so be sure to bring your binoculars. The most famously watched is the bald eagle. Other commonly viewed birds here include egrets, Carolina wrens, herons and a variety of screech owls.
The most notable feature is the Bridgeway Trail and the Steel Mill Trail.
Welcome to the Carlisle Reservation home page. Carlisle is the largest of the Lorain County Metro Parks, encompassing 1,917 acres when included with Forest Hills Golf Course which lies at the northeastern end. Carlisle Reservation also offers a large variety of events and activities throughout the year, and is home to the administrative offices for the entire park system. From Holiday Lights to horseback riding to stargazing, Carlisle Reservation is a place you’ll want to get to know better.
Scan ponds for waterfowl; hike the trail for woodland nesters.
The Equestrian Area, just a bit further southwest on Nickel-Plate Diagonal Road, is not just for horses, although horse lovers find it a favorite place to ride.
Charlemont is a 757 acre undeveloped park in southern Lorain County and is the only one in the LC Metro Parks system that allows hunting (rabbit & pheasant.)
Findley State Park is in Lorain County south of Wellington on State Route 58. 900+ acres are here year round for hiking, biking, picnicking, boating/kayaking, fishing and camping.
42 acres of lake front property for the public to enjoy.
Sandy Ridge Reservation is a 310 acre wetland and wildlife preserve located in North Ridgeville.
The City of Sheffield Lake gave boaters a much needed public access to Lake Erie by renovating the lake-front property which includes a two-lane boat launch.
Spanning two adjacent areas separated by the Vermilion River—Mill Hollow on one side and Bacon Woods on the other.
This 550 acre park provides opportunities for hiking, biking, strolling, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.