River

Eastwood
MetroPark

Fields
LOCATION
and
DIRECTIONS
Located within the city limits of Dayton, Eastwood MetroPark is about 6.2 miles northeast of downtown Dayton. From the intersection of US 35 and I-75, go north on I-75 for 1.9 miles, then go right onto SR 4. Follow SR 4 for 3.7 miles to Harshman Rd. Turn right onto Harshman Rd. and go 0.4 miles to the Eastwood MetroPark Lake entrance on the right, or continue on 0.2 miles farther to the Eastwood MetroPark park entrance on the right.

Huffman MetroPark is located nearby.

For a map showing the location Eastwood MetroPark, see Five Rivers MetroPark Map
AREA
DESCRIPTION
AND
HABITAT
This 437-acre MetroPark was created around mile-long Eastwood Lake (185 acres), and includes a smaller lake (Blue Lake), a lagoon, and a stretch of the Mad River. The habitats found here are primarily good for waterbirds and shorebirds. A meadow has been created on the south side of the Mad River and offers additional birding opportunities.
SPECIES
FOUND
Aquatic species including Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, and migrant waterfowl are often sighted at Eastwood Lake. The lake is also used by various gulls, terns, and swallows. Due to the location along a major river and the large size of the lake, quite a long list of rarities have been found at Eastwood MetroPark. Some of these include Red-throated Loon, Red-necked and Eared Grebe, Harlequin Duck, Ruddy Turnstone and Western Sandpiper, Laughing Gull, Black-legged Kittiwake, and Snowy Owl.
FACILITIES
and
OTHER
INFORMATION
In addition to birdwatching, Eastwood MetroPark offers a variety of water-based recreational opportunities including sailing, motorboating, water skiing, canoeing, and fishing. Also, special events like fishing derbies, boat shows and races, and festivals including the popular Mountain Day Festival, are held each year.

A variety of scenic picnicking spots with tables are available, some with shelters. Most locations have grills.

A three-mile loop trail on mostly level terrain passes through a variety of habitats and provides beautiful views of the river. This trail is part of the Buckeye Trail, a 1200-mile continuous loop that that completely encircles the state of Ohio.

Restrooms, drinking water, public telephones, and playgrounds are available.

A User's Guide brochure, complete with map, is available at bulletin boards in the park.

Hours are 8 a.m. to dusk daily. Closed Christmas and New Year's Day.

Return to Site Index