Duranceau Park

Natural Riverside Retreat

Found in the West Scioto area of Columbus, Duranceau Park spans nearly 18 acres of tranquil community space. We discovered this cozy location nestled right along the Scioto River, offering a peaceful escape from the city hustle without having to venture far.

The park sits right next to the McKnight Outdoor Education Center, giving you even more natural areas to explore if you're feeling adventurous. What really makes this spot special is its position along Griggs Reservoir - the water views add something magical to an already serene setting. It's one of those places that feels a bit secret, with the kind of calming river scenery that makes you want to sit and stay awhile.

What You'll Find Here

The landscape is a nice mix of open meadows and shaded wooded sections, perfect whether you're looking for sun or shelter on your outdoor adventure. One of the main draws is the open-air shelter that's available to everyone.

This shelter (officially called Shelter #6 in the Griggs Reservoir Park system) can be reserved for gatherings from April through October. If you're visiting during the cooler months (November through March), you can simply claim it first-come, first-served - no reservation needed.

You'll discover several picnic tables scattered across the park, both under the shelter and in the open areas, making it easy to enjoy a casual lunch or dinner outdoors. The park does have permanent restrooms, however they're occasionally closed, in which case portable toilets are provided as a backup option.

Things to Do

If you're bringing kids along, they'll appreciate the playground area that accommodates various age groups. The equipment isn't fancy, but it offers enough fun to keep little ones entertained while you enjoy the natural surroundings.

For those who enjoy a good stroll, the park's riverside location creates a lovely backdrop for walks. The walking trails aren't extensive or highly developed, but they provide just enough path for a pleasant walk or to take your dog for some exercise along scenic routes.

A Local Treasure

While Duranceau Park could use some updating and better signage in places, it remains a valuable green space for nearby residents. What it lacks in flashy amenities it makes up for in quiet charm and accessibility.

The combination of natural beauty and basic facilities makes this spot suitable for everything from a quick nature break to a family afternoon out. Dog owners particularly appreciate the open areas that provide plenty of space for on-leash walks with their four-legged friends - all with fewer crowds than you can find at Columbus's more popular parks.