Bath Nature Preserve is a 1,300-acre protected area in Ohio offering diverse habitats for hiking, wildlife observation, and environmental education.
Located in Summit County, Ohio, Bath Nature Preserve spans approximately 1,300 acres of woodlands, wetlands, prairies, and meadows. The preserve provides habitat for a variety of native plant and animal species and plays an important role in local ecosystem preservation. Originally acquired in the mid-1980s by Summit Metro Parks, the area was set aside to protect natural resources and offer outdoor recreation opportunities to the public. Visitors can explore over 10 miles of multi-use trails that wind through different ecosystems, providing excellent bird watching, plant identification, and seasonal wildflower viewing. The preserve also features boardwalks and observation platforms over wetlands, making it accessible and educational for families and school groups. Key recreational features include hiking, mountain biking, and nature photography. Bath Nature Preserve houses important natural landmarks such as rare oak savanna remnants and vernal pools that support amphibians each spring. The preserve’s conservation emphasis contributes to protecting local wildlife corridors that connect with surrounding parks. Bath Nature Preserve’s appeal lies in its combination of quiet natural beauty and easy access from nearby urban centers like Akron and Cuyahoga Falls, making it a valuable refuge for residents and visitors seeking nature experiences close to home.
Oak savanna habitat with rare native plants
Wetland boardwalks for amphibian and bird watching
Multi-use trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking
Quiet observation platforms ideal for nature photography
One of the few remaining oak savanna ecosystems in the region, supporting rare wildflowers and native grasses.
Elevated walkways that allow visitors to observe diverse amphibian species and migratory birds without disturbing the habitat.
Seasonal pools which provide critical breeding grounds for frogs, salamanders, and other amphibians each spring.