Looking for a nature preserve near Cleveland that's worth escaping to? The Greater Cleveland area has its own gems, but they can get crowded. Every so often, searching for a hidden gem of a park is a treat like no other. Today, we're going to take a virtual visit to Great Egret Marsh over on the western stretches of Lake Erie's coast. It is tucked across the street from the 1,831-acre East Harbor State Park, so you could start at the marsh and retreat into the forest across the street for a camping trip afterward. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature... just don't forget a bit of bug spray!
The 150 acres of marshland in Ottawa County is protected by The Nature Conservancy.
At just over an hour away from Cleveland, this pretty stretch of landscape is far enough from the hustle and bustle of life to feel like a little getaway.
This slice of paradise, Great Egret Marsh Preserve, was created in 2013 when a Clean Ohio Conservation Fund grant assisted in its creation. It opened to the public in 2014.
The Nature Conservancy's goal is to protect and restore 10,000 acres of Lake Erie coastal habitat. This little slice of paradise over in the Catawba Island area assists in that mission, as it is already raw, untamed, and gorgeous.
Visitors will enjoy learning about nature as they traverse the 1.2-mile loop trail around the preserve.
Keep your eyes peeled for nature as you pass the osprey tower and meadows at this park! Much of the surrounding area was former farmland, but nature has reclaimed it as her own with just a bit of help from The Nature Conservancy.
Or, you may choose to engage with nature in a totally different way.
This park, right across the street from East Harbor State Park, is a great place to go kayaking, fishing, and birding. If you're a fan of the great outdoors, you will fall in love with this park.
And, as its name suggests, this marsh preserve is a splendid place to observe waterfowl in the comfort of their natural habitat.
Though fairly small at 150 acres, this park has an impressive collection of flora and fauna. You'll see all sorts of critters during your visit... and maybe even an egret or two!
Since its inception, Great Egret Marsh Preserve has grown, changed, and improved. It's well worth a visit!
In addition to managing invasive species, The Nature Conservancy has also planted 15,000 native trees, added signage to assist in education, and improved the resiliency of the natural landscape.
Lace up your hiking boots and prepare to explore Great Egret Marsh Preserve!
Once you're done, make the trek worthwhile by spending some time in East Harbor State Park! This park has a camping area, so you'll want to make a reservation for your next planned visit.
This scenic nature preserve near Cleveland is almost too pretty for words. Have you ever visited, or is this site going to be a newbie on your Ohio bucket list?
Are you a fan of a good marsh? Lace up your hiking boots and head on over to Magee Marsh on your next journey.
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