Richland County’s rolling hills and sprawling green spaces create ample space for outdoor exploration. From small town hubs to reservoir respites, area parks give everyone a reason to head outside for a breath of fresh air — and an amazing adventure!
Mansfield’s North Lake Park is a picturesque, warm-weather spot with a fishing pond and basketball court. Bring the kids to cool off at the YMCA’s Splash Pad Park, with its interactive water features and dumping bucket. Shelby’s newly built Black Fork Commons also buzzes in the summer, when the amphitheater hosts live music and festivals.
Along with Clearfork Reservoir’s beckoning water, anglers and boaters find paradise at Charles Mill Lake Park and Pleasant Hill Lake Park in Perrysville. Catfish and bluegill are among the bounty. If you don’t have a boat, rent a kayak at Charles Mill Marina or a pontoon at Pleasant Hill Marina. Make it an overnight getaway at either park with tent and RV camping and luxury log cabins.
Charles Palm Park in Bellville has two fishing ponds, but pups especially will love Finnigan’s Run, the area’s newest dog park which is located along the B&O Trail. Marshall Park in Ontario is another dog park winner with a splash park for kids, a band shell for concerts, lighted baseball/softball diamonds and an 18-hole disc golf course — part of the nationwide disc-golf network along with courses at Clearfork Reservoir Park and Shelby’s Seltzer Park.
By Jamie Rhein