Osborn MetroPark
A 172-acre park on former prison grounds, offering playgrounds, soccer fields, disc golf, tennis, and extensive nature trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Osborn MetroPark
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 172-acre park on former prison grounds, offering playgrounds, soccer fields, disc golf, tennis, and extensive nature trails.
"Awesome park for the whole family! Lots of different walking trails, kid play spots all over, 2 different playgrounds, musical area, gym equipment, huge dog park."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The dog park is a highlight, with separate areas for small and large dogs. :dog:
👟 Trail Adventures
Wear comfortable shoes for the well-kept trails, which are designed with kids in mind. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nature Center & Trails
Roger Johnson Nature Center
Explore interactive exhibits and well-maintained trails designed for families, with hidden play areas.
Dog Park Paradise
Dog Park Area
A spacious and well-equipped dog park with separate areas for small and large dogs, plus training courses.
Disc Golf Fun
Disc Golf Course
Enjoy a free 9-hole disc golf course amidst scenic parkland, with disc rentals sometimes available.
Family Playgrounds
Playground Areas
Multiple playgrounds offer diverse fun, including a unique 'music station' with percussion instruments.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
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Pack for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The dog park is a highlight, with separate areas for small and large dogs. :dog:
👟 Trail Adventures
Wear comfortable shoes for the well-kept trails, which are designed with kids in mind. :athletic_shoe:
🎶 Musical Play Area
Don't miss the unique 'music station' with percussion instruments for interactive fun. :musical_note:
🥏 Disc Golf Ready
The disc golf course is free to play; check for disc rental availability. :frisbee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The dog park is a highlight, with separate areas for small and large dogs. :dog:
👟 Trail Adventures
Wear comfortable shoes for the well-kept trails, which are designed with kids in mind. :athletic_shoe:
🎶 Musical Play Area
Don't miss the unique 'music station' with percussion instruments for interactive fun. :musical_note:
🥏 Disc Golf Ready
The disc golf course is free to play; check for disc rental availability. :frisbee:
📅 Event Calendar
Check the park's website for upcoming events like Fall Fest and Earth Day Extravaganza. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Osborn MetroPark for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse amenities. The well-maintained trails, engaging playgrounds, and excellent dog park are frequently highlighted as major draws. While most experiences are positive, some visitors note that certain areas can become crowded during peak times or special events.
"Love this place. Great playground, lots of slides and fun stuff for kids. There's a track that goes around the whole park area and 2 outdoor gym areas as well as a "music station" with various percussion instruments. The trails are awesome and well kept. Tons of stuff for kids to do on the trails as well, the whole trail area is designed with kiddos in mind with little play places scattered everywhere. Lovely. We love it there, never gets old! Oh and there's a huge dog park for your pups to play in, and a course for training too! Very dog friendly."
Renae Hammond
"Explore scenic walking trails, enjoy our dedicated nature center, and relax in beautiful green spaces. Play tennis or pickleball on our well-maintained courts, take advantage of our picnic shelters, and bring your furry friends to the dog park. Experience the joy of disc golf and unwind with friends while grilling at our charcoal stations. Come and discover the perfect spot for recreation and relaxation!"
Mark Malone
"Really nice park to get some hiking in. We were able to get 4 miles today. We got to see 3 deer, 5 turkey vultures, and a male and female bald eagle guarding their nest"
Jeffrey Bowser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Osborn MetroPark is located in Huron, Ohio. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available throughout the park. Many visitors arrive via personal vehicles, and it's a popular spot for locals in the Sandusky and Huron areas.
Public transportation options directly to Osborn MetroPark may be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car. Check local transit schedules for potential bus routes that might get you close to the park area.
The park is situated near major roadways in Huron, Ohio. Key access points are often found via routes like US-6 and OH-2. Following GPS navigation to 'Osborn MetroPark, Huron, OH' is the most straightforward approach.
Yes, Osborn MetroPark offers ample parking facilities throughout the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Parking is generally free.
While there isn't a dedicated bike path directly to the park's entrance, cyclists can use local roads to reach Osborn MetroPark. Secure your bike appropriately upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Osborn MetroPark is generally free to enter and explore. Most of its amenities, including playgrounds, trails, and disc golf, are accessible without a fee.
Park hours can vary seasonally, but Osborn MetroPark is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Erie Metro Parks website for the most current hours of operation.
For special events like the Osborn Fall Fest or Earth Day Extravaganza, it's advisable to check the event details on the Erie Metro Parks website. Some events might have specific registration requirements or small fees. 
Osborn MetroPark is open to the public. Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for dogs in non-designated areas and respecting park closing times.
Yes, picnic shelters are available at Osborn MetroPark and can often be reserved for gatherings and parties. Information on reservations and any associated fees can be found on the Erie Metro Parks website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Osborn MetroPark offers a wide range of activities including hiking on scenic trails, playing on modern playgrounds, disc golfing, tennis, pickleball, and enjoying the dedicated dog park. There's also a nature center and open green spaces for relaxation. +1
Absolutely! The trails at Osborn MetroPark are noted for being well-kept and designed with children in mind, featuring scattered play areas along the routes.
The park boasts a large, dog-friendly area with separate sections for small and large dogs. It includes water hoses and bowls, making it a great spot for your pets to play freely.
Yes, Osborn MetroPark features a 9-hole disc golf course that is free for everyone to play. Discs and instruction may be provided during specific park programs.
Visitors have reported seeing wildlife such as deer, turkey vultures, and even bald eagles nesting along the trails. The park's natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Osborn MetroPark does not have on-site restaurants. However, there are charcoal grilling stations available for visitors to use, perfect for a picnic.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at Osborn MetroPark. Picnic shelters and open spaces are ideal for outdoor dining.
Information regarding vending machines at Osborn MetroPark is not widely available. It's best to bring your own refreshments to ensure you have what you need.
The park is located in Huron, Ohio, which offers various dining options from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. You can find local cafes and family-friendly restaurants nearby.
There is no cafe located within the Roger Johnson Nature Center at Osborn MetroPark. Visitors should plan to bring their own snacks and drinks or dine in the surrounding Huron area.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers diverse scenic opportunities, from the natural beauty of the trails and wildlife sightings to the modern playgrounds and disc golf course. The Nature Center and its surroundings also provide picturesque backdrops.
Yes, Osborn MetroPark is a great place for wildlife photography. Visitors have spotted deer, various birds including bald eagles, and other natural inhabitants. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Events like the Osborn Fall Fest and Earth Day Extravaganza often provide unique photo opportunities with seasonal decorations, community activities, and art displays.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary by park system. It's recommended to check the Erie Metro Parks guidelines or contact the park directly to inquire about drone photography policies.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more appealing ambiance. This is also when wildlife is often most active.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🏃♀️ Active Individuals & Sports Enthusiasts
The park also offers outdoor gym equipment and a walking/running track that circles the main area. The extensive hiking trails provide miles of exploration for runners and walkers alike. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Nature
The Roger Johnson Nature Center serves as a hub for environmental education and exploration. Inside, you can find exhibits that highlight the local flora and fauna. The center's presence enhances the understanding and appreciation of the park's natural resources. The surrounding areas of the nature center are also picturesque, offering good spots for photography and quiet contemplation.
+1Beyond the trails, the park actively promotes conservation efforts. For instance, the presence of bluebird nest boxes along the trails and disc golf course demonstrates a commitment to supporting local bird populations. Monitoring these boxes is an ongoing effort by park staff, contributing to the ecological health of Osborn MetroPark.
Family Fun and Recreation
Beyond the playgrounds, the park provides ample space for active recreation. This includes well-maintained tennis and pickleball courts, as well as a popular 9-hole disc golf course that is free to play. For those looking for a more structured workout, there are also outdoor gym equipment areas. The park's layout encourages exploration, with a track that encircles the main park area, connecting various amenities.
Osborn MetroPark also hosts several family-friendly events throughout the year. The annual Osborn Fall Fest is a major draw, offering seasonal activities and a festive atmosphere. Similarly, the Earth Day Extravaganza provides educational fun and community engagement focused on environmental awareness. These events are great opportunities for families to experience the park's vibrant community spirit.
+1Canine Companions at the Park
The amenities within the dog park are thoughtful, including readily available water hoses and bowls, which are essential for keeping pets hydrated, especially during warmer weather. Beyond the off-leash area, there's also a dedicated course for dog training, providing an extra layer of utility for pet owners looking to work on obedience or agility with their dogs.
The park's overall dog-friendly atmosphere extends to the trails and general grounds, provided pets are kept on a leash. This makes Osborn MetroPark a welcoming destination for families who wish to include their four-legged members in their outdoor adventures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit