This Little Known Natural Oasis Is Hiding In Ohio… And You’re Going To Love It
What do sand dunes, wildflowers, and evergreen trees have in common? Oak Openings Metro Park.
Close to Toledo you’ll find what’s considered to be Ohio’s rarest ecosystem (and one of the world’s rarest ecosystems) where rare plants and animals, oak forests, sand dunes, savannas, tall-grass prairies and swamp forests all thrive in harmony—and it will truly make you feel like you’re not in Ohio anymore.
The park has a tendency to make visitors feel as if they've temporarily traveled to another state or different part of the world.
....sand dunes (that regularly shift with the wind) continue to thrive nearby. The oak-covered savanna with sporadic sand dunes creates a truly interesting environment you have to see to believe.
Oak Openings is also located on the main path for seasonal bird migration, and bird watching is a popular activity here. (So be sure to bring your camera.)
The park covers a total of 4,000 acres and features more than 30 miles of well-marked hiking trails. The diverse terrain is clearly mapped out, ready for exploration.
The Oak Openings Preserve Metropark is located in Swanton and operated by Metroparks of the Toledo Area. It’s a true hidden gem not far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Have you ever been to Oak Openings? Share your photos and experiences with us!
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April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
