Sharon Woods Metro Park
A 761-acre preserve featuring playgrounds, fishing lake, and diverse trails for hiking, running, and biking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more parking
Sharon Woods Metro Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 761-acre preserve featuring playgrounds, fishing lake, and diverse trails for hiking, running, and biking.
"This park has it all, from bike paths to walking paths, a beautiful fishing lake, and multiple play areas."
Tick Prevention is Crucial
Wear long sleeves & pants, use repellent, and check for ticks after visiting wooded areas. :bug:
Arrive Early for Parking
Popular spots fill fast on nice days. Aim for early mornings or weekdays to secure a good spot. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Inclusive Playgrounds
Multiple locations
Discover thoughtfully designed playgrounds welcoming all abilities, featuring ramps, sensory areas, and musical instruments.
Scenic Walking Trails
Throughout the park
Explore paved paths and rugged, wooded trails perfect for hiking, running, and nature walks.
+2
Catch and Release Lake
Central lake
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon fishing in the lake, with picnic areas and benches nearby.
Natural Play Area
Designated area
Let kids explore and play in a natural environment with creeks and rugged terrain.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tick Awareness is Key
Parking Can Be Tricky
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tick Prevention is Crucial
Wear long sleeves & pants, use repellent, and check for ticks after visiting wooded areas. :bug:
Arrive Early for Parking
Popular spots fill fast on nice days. Aim for early mornings or weekdays to secure a good spot. :car:
Explore Multiple Playgrounds
Don't miss the various play areas, including the inclusive playground and natural play zone.
Trail Etiquette
Be mindful of new lane markings for runners and bikers; stay aware of others on shared paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
Tick Prevention is Crucial
Wear long sleeves & pants, use repellent, and check for ticks after visiting wooded areas. :bug:
Arrive Early for Parking
Popular spots fill fast on nice days. Aim for early mornings or weekdays to secure a good spot. :car:
Explore Multiple Playgrounds
Don't miss the various play areas, including the inclusive playground and natural play zone.
Trail Etiquette
Be mindful of new lane markings for runners and bikers; stay aware of others on shared paths.
Pack for Creek Play
Bring water shoes and a change of clothes if your little ones want to explore the creek.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Sharon Woods Metro Park's diverse offerings, from its excellent playgrounds and scenic trails to its peaceful lake. While parking can be a challenge on busy days and some find fishing difficult, the park is widely praised for its natural beauty and family-friendly amenities. +1
"This park is amazing. Plenty of things to do whether you’re an adult or child. They have everything from bike paths to walking paths, a beautiful fishing catch and release lake, and multiple play areas for little ones and older kids as well. They offer lots of picnic areas and park benches, this park has it all. They have a natural play area too. They have walking trails through the woods and ones that are paved so truly something for everyone. It was busy but there’s so many different areas and they each of lots of parking so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a spot. They also have handicap parking spots too. I love that they have dog bags available for pet waste and plenty of trash receptacles too."
Lisa B
"A beautiful, spacious garden with walking paths and bicycle paths. It has a shelter, children's games, and bathrooms, but it needs more attention and cleanliness. It has a lake where fish can be caught, but with difficulty."
Boba FM
"I’ve been coming to Sharon Woods for years. I had a blast yesterday fishing, hiking, and enjoying the weather for the first time this year. I would definitely recommend it. The only con was that because it was such a nice day, there was very little parking available. Other than that I would have gave it five stars."
JoNo X
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sharon Woods Metro Park is located in Westerville, Ohio. You can typically reach it by car via major roadways like I-270. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there are multiple parking lots throughout the park, serving different areas like the playgrounds, lake, and trailheads. However, parking can fill up quickly on busy days, so arriving early is advised.
The park offers paved walking paths and accessible parking spots. Some of the inclusive playgrounds are also designed with accessibility in mind.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Sharon Woods Metro Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Dog waste bag stations are available throughout the park.
Metro Parks are generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific facility hours, like restrooms or shelters, may vary. It's best to check the official Columbus Metro Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sharon Woods Metro Park, like all Columbus Metro Parks, offers free admission for all visitors.
There is no need to book tickets in advance as admission is free. You can visit anytime during park hours.
The Columbus Metro Parks often host various educational programs, guided walks, and family-friendly events. Check their official website or social media for schedules.
To avoid the largest crowds, try visiting on weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends, especially on nice days, tend to be busier.
Yes, picnic shelters are available for reservation through the Columbus Metro Parks website. This is recommended for larger gatherings.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, running, biking on paved trails, fishing in the lake (catch and release), exploring playgrounds, and picnicking. There's also a natural play area for kids. +1
Yes, the park features multiple playgrounds, including a highly-rated inclusive playground designed for all abilities and a natural play area.
Sharon Woods offers a mix of paved multi-use trails suitable for walking, running, and biking, as well as more rugged, wooded trails for hiking and nature exploration.
Yes, fishing is permitted in the lake on a catch-and-release basis. You'll need a valid Ohio fishing license if required by state regulations.
Ticks can be present, especially in wooded areas. It's recommended to wear protective clothing, use insect repellent, and perform tick checks after your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Sharon Woods Metro Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and utilize the picnic areas.
Absolutely! The park has numerous picnic areas with tables and benches, as well as reservable shelters for larger groups.
Westerville, the nearby city, offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to family-friendly restaurants.
Typically, Metro Parks do not have extensive concession stands. It's best to pack all your snacks and drinks.
Grilling is generally permitted in designated picnic areas, but always check park signage or the Metro Parks website for specific rules and regulations regarding fires and grills.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake, wooded trails during autumn, the inclusive playgrounds, and open fields offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The 'golden hour' light is particularly stunning.
Yes, with its diverse habitats including forests, fields, and a lake, it's a great spot for capturing local flora and fauna, especially during spring and fall.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Metro Parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Check the official Columbus Metro Parks policy for details.
General photography for personal use is usually allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the natural play area where kids can explore creeks and rugged terrain. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic areas surrounding the play zones and lake. Remember to bring water shoes if your little ones want to splash in the creek! While the park is generally safe, be aware of ticks in wooded areas and ensure children are checked thoroughly after visiting. Parking can be competitive on sunny weekends, so an early start is recommended to secure a convenient spot near the playgrounds.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
The park's layout provides opportunities for varied routes, and the presence of hills adds an extra element to your workout. Be aware of the new lane markings on some paths, which designate separate areas for bikes and pedestrians. While this aims to improve safety, it can sometimes lead to confusion. Stay alert and mindful of other users on the trails.
Also, remember to take precautions against ticks if you venture onto the unpaved trails. 🌳 Nature Lovers and Hikers
The park's natural beauty is particularly striking in the fall. When hiking, especially on the less-maintained trails, be prepared for uneven terrain and potential mud. Always wear sturdy footwear and be vigilant about tick prevention.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
+1Recent updates to trail markings have introduced separate lanes for bikes and pedestrians on some paths. While intended to improve safety, some visitors find this layout confusing, especially since bike traffic can be light. It's important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow any posted signage to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, whether you're running, walking, or cycling.
When exploring the wooded trails, particularly in warmer months, be mindful of tick presence. Rangers advise caution, and wearing appropriate clothing like long sleeves and pants is recommended. Always perform a thorough tick check after your visit to prevent any potential issues.
Playtime for All Ages
Beyond the inclusive playground, you'll find other play structures suitable for different age groups. Additionally, Sharon Woods features a natural play area that encourages imaginative exploration. Here, kids can engage with the environment in a more unstructured way, climbing on natural elements and playing in the creek.
+1These play areas are often complemented by nearby picnic spots and restrooms, making it convenient for families to spend an extended period enjoying the park. Remember to check the specific locations of these play areas on a park map to plan your visit effectively.
Fishing and Lakeside Relaxation
Surrounding the lake are numerous picnic areas and park benches, providing comfortable spots to relax, enjoy a meal, or simply take in the views. These amenities make the lake area a perfect place for a family outing or a quiet afternoon spent outdoors.
Remember to check the Ohio Department of Natural Resources regulations for any fishing license requirements before you cast your line. The catch-and-release policy helps maintain the fish population for future enjoyment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit