Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Urban Oasis

Next to the Scioto River just south of downtown Columbus, Ohio lies a 120-acre piece of nature that feels worlds away from the urban hustle. Scioto Audubon Metro Park transformed what was once a gritty landscape of factories, warehouses, and railroad yards into a thriving green space when it opened in 2009.

As part of the Scioto Mile network of parks, you'll get some seriously Instagram-worthy views of the Columbus skyline while reconnecting with nature right in the city's heart. It offers a balance between outdoor experiences and urban proximity.

Natural Habitats

The park contains a variety of wetlands, prairies, and woodlands that attract diverse wildlife - especially birds. For birds making the long-haul journey between Central/South America and their northern breeding grounds, this park is a crucial pit stop.

Over 200 species of birds have been spotted taking a breather here during spring and fall migrations - no wonder Scioto Audubon earned its stripes as an Important Bird Area by Audubon and BirdLife International.

Meandering trails guide you through these diverse ecosystems, including a peaceful riverside path where you might spot turtles sunning themselves on logs. The boardwalks cutting through the wetlands offer a particularly tranquil experience - a good spot to take a break and observe nature.

Recreation Opportunities

Feel like challenging yourself? The park's 35-foot tall outdoor climbing wall is one of the largest free outdoor climbing walls in the country. This impressive complex spans over 7,000 square feet with three towers and two arches, offering everything from beginner-friendly bouldering to more advanced top rope and lead climbing. Four auto-belayers are there to assist, but remember to bring your own gear.

The park's obstacle course features tire flips, balance beams, and over-under challenges. It provides a fun alternative to traditional exercise.

The fun doesn't stop there. Well-maintained sand volleyball courts and bocce ball courts cater to the game-lovers, while a spacious field welcomes impromptu frisbee matches or picnic blankets. Climb the water tower observation deck for a breathtaking panorama of Columbus's skyline, or let the kids burn off energy at the modern playground with its unique climbing structures.

Water enthusiasts can launch kayaks into the Scioto River, anglers can try their luck fishing, and dog parents can let their fur babies run free in the popular dog park. With separate areas for large and small dogs and a mix of turf and natural grass, plus agility equipment, it's a well-designed space for dogs to play.

Education and Conservation

At the heart of the park's educational efforts stands the Grange Insurance Audubon Center. This 18,000-square-foot facility isn't just a pretty face - it's a model of sustainable building practices and is a hub for nature education for Columbus schools and residents.

The park walks that fine line between preserving natural spaces and making them accessible for everyone to enjoy and learn from. You can wander through butterfly garden areas or join one of the educational events hosted by the Audubon Society to deepen your understanding of the ecosystems around you.

Visitor Amenities

Planning to make a day of it? Multiple picnic shelters equipped with tables and grills make this an ideal spot for gatherings. Clean restrooms are available at the nature center and at various points around the park, so you won't be caught in an emergency.

Parking is plentiful, and the park connects seamlessly to the city's bike trail system - making it a breeze to visit on two wheels. And when you've worked up a thirst after all that outdoor adventure, Nocterra Brewing Company sits conveniently near the park entrance, offering a wonderful spot to relax and reflect on your day in nature.