Updated June 26th, 2024
Plan your next celebration at one of these MetroParks hidden gems
Between summer holidays, vacations and friendly get-togethers, planning and budgets can start to get out of hand. Luckily, the great outdoors is an affordable, fun venue for your next large family gathering, camping staycation or simple picnic.
Five Rivers MetroParks offers dozens of shelters across multiple parks in Montgomery County, many of which offer amenities that help facilitate larger crowds for special occasions. Shelters are easily reserved online by visiting metroparks.org/easy.
Permits coordinator Carla Eck recommends the following for your next summer event:
Possum Creek MetroPark
Farm Shelter: Accessible with proximity to nature play and hiking trails. Water access and grill are available. Public parking is close to both the shelter and restrooms. Capacity: 20 people. See photos and check availability.
Prairie Dock Shelter: Accessible and located near hiking trails and lakeside fishing opportunities, in addition to a fire ring with plenty of greenspace for yard games. Grill, water access and electricity is available. Semi-private parking is close to the shelter and restrooms. Capacity: 100 people. See photos and check availability.
Wesleyan MetroPark
Pavilion: Accessible with nearby access to paved trails for walking or cycling and a playground. Grill, water access and electricity is available. Limited street parking is available. Capacity: 60 people. See photos and check availability.
Blue Jay Shelter: Accessible with nearby access to paved trails for walking or cycling and a playground. Grill, water access and electricity is available. Capacity: 40 people. See photos and check availability.
Island MetroPark
Willowwood Shelter: Accessible with nearby access to fishing opportunities, children’s sprayground (Memorial Day – Labor Day) and paved trails. Grill, water access and electricity is available: Capacity: 40 people. See photos and check availability.
How to browse more shelters
MetroParks makes it quick and easy to reserve shelters and campsites online by visiting metroparks.org/easy. For those who wish to reserve a shelter over the phone, contact 937-275-PARK (7275).
Access to Nature Financial Assistance
Montgomery County residents who qualify may apply for funds to help alleviate the cost of shelter rentals. Learn more and apply.
