Possum Creek MetroPark

Natural Landscapes

Positioned in Dayton, Ohio, Possum Creek MetroPark spans a generous 556 acres of what was once farmland now beautifully returning to its natural state. It's like watching nature slowly reclaim its territory - quite fascinating, really.

The park features some pretty special natural areas, from bottomland hardwood forests that follow Possum Creek's gentle path to two mature beech woodlots that provide shady retreats. Around the park, you'll stumble upon human-made ponds and wetlands that have become thriving ecosystems in their own right.

Prairie Restoration

One of our favorite aspects of this park has to be its prairie restoration project. Over 100 acres that were once neglected farmland and even dump sites have been cleared and replanted with native Ohio prairie species.

It wasn't an overnight success story; this prairie took years of patient work to establish. Now it's one of the largest and most diverse planted prairies in Ohio. The tall grass prairie is particularly beautiful near sunset, when the golden light filters through the swaying grasses.

Recreational Opportunities

If you're looking to cast a line, Argonne Lake and several other stocked ponds within the park offer good fishing opportunities. Depending on when you visit, you might reel in bass, catfish, or bluegill - the fishing experience changes with the seasons.

For those who prefer to explore on foot, 5.5 miles of hiking trails wind through woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, giving you a chance to experience all the diverse landscapes the park has to offer. And if horses are your thing, there's a 4.5-mile bridle trail waiting for you.

Educational Farm

Possum Creek is also home to a working farm that represents a wonderful learning resource. The farm is home to goats, sheep, chickens, donkeys, and turkeys.

Near the farm, you'll come across about 90 community garden plots where local residents grow everything from practical vegetables to beautiful flowers. It's quite nice to walk by and see what people are cultivating in these well-tended spaces.

Historical Features

Here's something you might not expect: the park preserves pieces of Argonne Forest Park, an amusement park from the 1930s and early 1940s. You can discover these historical remnants along the Argonne Forest Trail - it's like a little time capsule.

Across the park, historical markers offer glimpses into pre-WWII Dayton. If you're interested in local history, make sure to check out the Purple Trail, which is known for its historical significance.

Amenities

Feel like extending your stay? The park offers five primitive camping sites (permit required). Each site is different - some have lakefront views - and comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and complimentary firewood.

For day visitors, several picnic areas with tables are scattered around the park, some featuring charcoal grills. If you're planning a family reunion or larger gathering, the large shelters can accommodate groups of various sizes.

Wildlife and Natural Experience

One of the real joys of Possum Creek is wildlife watching. You'll likely spot deer moving quietly through the undergrowth, hawks circling overhead, and butterflies and dragonflies darting among the flowers and grasses. The diverse habitats attract many bird species, so bring your binoculars if you're into birdwatching.

What's particularly nice is how peaceful the park remains, even on beautiful weekends. It rarely feels crowded, giving you space to breathe and really tune into the natural surroundings.

Playground and Family Activities

If you're visiting with kids, head to the natural playground near the education center. It features sand areas and tunnels that younger children especially seem to love. There's good shade here too, so you can relax while keeping an eye on the little ones as they play.