Park Updates

The Cassell Reservation first began in 2004 with an initial donation of land by the Cassell family. Through additional acquisitions (substantially funded by Clean Ohio grants) and a 2023 land donation from the Sommer Realty Company, Cassell Reservation now stands at nearly 290 acres. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at the Highbridge Trailhead.

Due to the site’s unique hydrologic features, and somewhat acidic soils, Cassell Reservation is a haven for unique plants, including several listed by the State of Ohio as rare or endangered. In fact, one identified plant has not been found throughout the state since 1894. In 2017, researchers identified Carey’s Smartweed (Persicaria careyi) within wetland areas of the park. Currently, the reservation features more than a mile of trail to explore. The trail was cautiously built to avoid negative impacts on the site’s soil and plant life. The gravel trail is constructed of sandstone rather than traditional crushed limestone to eliminate altering the soil’s pH.

Cassell Reservation’s geology, soils, and plants set it apart from all others in Lorain County. Future development plans include a picnic shelter, supplemental parking areas, and additional trails. With time, protection, and stewardship, Cassell Reservation may ultimately be recognized as one of Northeast Ohio’s premier natural areas.

• Cascade Park 387 Furnace St., Elyria, Ohio 44035 (440) 458-5121

• Cassell Reservation

815 High Bridge Rd., Vermilion, Ohio 44089 Charlemont Reservation 48600 New London Eastern Rd., New London, Ohio 44851

• Columbia Reservation 25145 Royalton Rd., Columbia Station, Ohio 44028

(440) 236-3254

Briarwood Lodge: 25250 Briarwood Dr., Columbia Station, Ohio 44028

• Forest Hills Golf Course 41971 Oberlin-Elyria Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 (440) 323-2632

• French Creek Reservation Burrell Homestead: 2792 E. River, Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054

French Creek Nature Center: 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054 (440) 949-5200

Pine Tree Picnic Area: 4951 French Creek Rd., Sheffield Village, Ohio 44054

• Indian Hollow Reservation Sheldon Woods: 38744 Parsons Rd., Grafton, Ohio 44044 Royal Oaks: 1057 Parson Rd., Grafton, Ohio 44044

• Kopf Family Golf Course at Cherry Ridge 1211 West River Rd., Elyria,

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The Community Foundation of Lorain County is yet again hosting Connect to a Cause. This event is a 12-hour fundraising competition that enables community members to donate directly to the local charities of their choice. Organizations like the Lorain County Metro Parks benefit not just from generous donations but also receive a portion of funding match from the Community Foundation. In 2022, the Lorain County Metro Parks received over $15,000 through this campaign.

Connect to a Cause 2023 takes place on Thursday, September 21. Donations will be accepted via credit/debit card at: peoplewhocare.org/c2c2023. To donate by check, please endorse to Community Foundation. Checks must be postmarked or delivered to the Foundation office (9080 Leavitt Road, Elyria, OH 44035) by 8:00 p.m. on Sept. 21.

Questions may be directed to our Administration Office at (440) 458-5121 or pr@loraincountymetroparks.com. We truly appreciate your consideration and continued support of the Lorain County Metro Parks.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LORAIN COUNTY'S