Natural splendor awaits you in your MetroParks — in forests and meadows, on miles of beautiful trail and in streams that link us to these protected spaces. Discover scenic rivers and creeks, and learn about prairies that burst with color and habitats rich in plant and animal life. Enjoy naturalist-led walks and programs, or explore these areas on your own!

Top Picks for Nature Exploration

Twin Valley Welcome Center

6910 Boomershine Rd., Germantown, OH 45327 Directions >

Designated as an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, this hotspot is teaming with a variety of wildlife. Whatever the season, enjoy hiking the trails and exploring one of the most biodiverse and quiet areas of Montgomery County.

Boardwalk at Carriage Hill Cedar Lake

7891 E. Shull Rd., Dayton, OH 45424 Directions >

Relax and hang out in the observation area while watching ducks, snakes, frogs and other creatures. Featuring pickerel weed and other types of plants, this area is one of the MetroParks’ most beautiful, accessible wetlands.

Robert K. Siebenthaler Natural Area

Old Mill Road, Germantown, OH 45327 Directions >

If you like wildflowers, then you don’t want to miss this hotspot! Nestled close to Twin Creek, with its high degree of topography, this small loop supports a variety of plant communities that are certainly worth traveling to.

Possum Creek Ponds

4790 Frytown Rd., Dayton, OH 45417 Directions >

These ponds are not just for fishing. Walk along the pond lane and keep an eye out for beavers, ducks and other wildlife. Dusk is the best time, when beavers are more active and screech owls take to the sky.

Sugarcreek Three Sisters

4178 Conference Rd., Bellbrook, OH 45305 Directions >

Bask in the presence of three oak trees that pre-date Christopher Columbus! Although one of these forest elders is now resting on the forest floor, you can still marvel at the longevity of nature in this historical spot, which also is great for spotting spring wildflowers, migrating warblers and the elusive barred owl.

Conservation Corner of Cox Arboretum

6733 Springboro Pike, Dayton, OH 45449 Directions >

A hidden gem, Conservation Corner rewards those who travel off the paved path to venture into more-natural areas. Find towering prairie wildflowers and grasses, and explore forests and two wetlands. Less than a 5-minute walk from the Arboretum parking lot, Conservation Corner will surround you with beautiful, native wildlife.

Activities

We offer opportunities for bird and butterfly watching, forestry study, fossil collecting and more. For details, check out the activities below:

Nature Programs

Five Rivers MetroParks offers many educational opportunities to help you better understand the natural world around you. Check out our calendar for upcoming programs, such as:

Nature walks for adults
Birding classes
Discovery strolls
Tree identification workshops
Wildflower walks

Programs & Events

Birding Challenge

New for Spring 2025

Save the date for Five Rivers MetroParks’ Birding Challenge starting March 1. Get Out & Bird for your chance to win fun, bird-themed prizes, contribute to important citizen science projects and help birds in your own backyard. Stay tuned for more details.

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Resources

Helpful links to enhance your nature observations

Local Clubs and Groups:

Online Guides:

Do it at Home:

Adult Nature Exploration