Photo by Keri Coleman
WELCOME TO THE TRAILHEAD
In every park, the trailhead is where adventure begins—a place to gather information, discover what’s ahead, and choose your path. This guide serves the same purpose for our park district. Inside, you’ll find stories that connect you to our parks and history, along with programs, events, activities, rental opportunities, and updates from across the district. Wherever your interests lead, The Trailhead is your starting point for exploring, learning, and connecting with the places and experiences that make our parks special.
NEW PUBLICATION SCHEDULE
If you’ve received our quarterly program guide in the past, you’ll notice something new! The Trailhead is now published three times a year, bringing you seasonal programs and events, along with stories from the parks, conservation updates, and inspiration to explore your Delaware County park district.
Each issue covers:
Winter/Spring: January – April
Summer: May – August
Fall/Winter: September – December
Thank you for joining us on this new journey. We hope The Trailhead becomes your guide to discovering all that Preservation Parks has to offer.
PRESERVATION PARKS MISSION
To protect and conserve the natural and historical features of Delaware County and to inspire outdoor exploration and learning.
PARK HOURS
March - October Daily, 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
November - February Daily, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
VISITOR CENTER AT DEER HAVEN PARK
4183 Liberty Road
Delaware, Ohio 43015
740-362-0283
Wed-Mon, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tues, Closed
GALLANT FARM
2150 Buttermilk Hill Road Delaware, Ohio 43015
740-595-3020
Tues-Sun, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon, Closed
DISTRICT OFFICE AND MARY MCCOY NATURE CENTER
2656 Hogback Road Sunbury, Ohio 43074 740-524-8600
Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Office) Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Nature Center)
GENERAL PARK RULES
• Keep pets on a leash
• Removal of natural features from the parks is prohibited
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited
• In case of emergency, call 911
BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS
John Bader
Glenn Marzluf Bruce Ruhl
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mary Van Haaften
Blues Creek Park 9627 Fontanelle Rd. Ostrander, 43061
Char-Mar Ridge Park 7741 Lewis Center Rd. Westerville, 43082
Deer Haven Park 4183 Liberty Rd. Delaware, 43015
Emily Traphagen Park 5094 Seldom Seen Rd. Powell, 43065
Gallant Farm
2150 Buttermilk Hill Rd. Delaware, 43015
Gallant Woods Park 2151 Buttermilk Hill Rd. Delaware, 43015
Hickory Woods Park 1271 Pollock Rd. Delaware, 43015
Hogback Ridge Park 2656 Hogback Rd. Sunbury, 43074
Hoover Scenic Trailhead 8405 Plumb Rd. Galena, 43021
McCammon Creek Park North Area 3675 E. Orange Rd. Lewis Center, 43035 Barn Area 6840 Bale Kenyon Rd. Lewis Center, 43035 East Area 7093 Bale Kenyon Rd. Lewis Center, 43035
River Run Park 168 Main Rd. Delaware, 43015
Sandel Legacy Trailhead 168 S. Vernon St. Sunbury, 43074
Shale Hollow Park 6320 Artesian Run Lewis Center, 43035
Sycamore Run Park 7341 Olentangy River Rd. Delaware, OH 43015
Preservation Parks of Delaware County is supported by public funds generated through tax levies, but many of the special programs, historic preservation projects, and unique experiences that make our parks extraordinary are made possible by the Preservation Parks Foundation. We like to say the Foundation allows us to dream — and invites our community to dream with us.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization recognized by the IRS, the Preservation Parks Foundation provides funding for meaningful projects such as the renovation of the historic Bicentennial Barn at McCammon Creek Park, which opened in August 2026.
The Foundation is also helping preserve another community treasure, the Perfect Schoolhouse, and supporting important improvements, including a pedestrian bridge over a stream at the new Eagle Ridge Park.
Foundation support also helps make possible educational programs and family events that are unique to our parks, including the Adventure Run, Trick or Treat Trail, and Summer Letterbox. These experiences serve thousands of children and families each year, inspiring curiosity, connection, and a lasting appreciation for the natural wonders of Delaware County.
You can be part of this wonderful work! Your gift helps the Foundation continue to dream boldly, preserve beloved community spaces, and offer outstanding educational experiences and events. To make a secure online donation, visit https://preservationparks.com/foundation.
Donate today!
For questions about giving opportunities or programs you can support, please contact the Development Department at 740-524-8600, ext. 110.
Bicentennial barn under construction
Perfect Schoolhouse
Rendering of bridge at Eagle Ridge Park
PROGRAM REGISTRATION
HOW TO REGISTER
Some programs have a fee and/or require advance registration. Watch for programs with the following symbols:
To register for a program, visit https://preservationparks.recdesk.com First time users: Click “CREATE ACCOUNT” and complete the questions to set up your FREE account. You will receive a confirmation email, then you can register for a program!
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact the Education Department at (740) 524-8600 x 103 or register@preservationparks.com.
Program registration begins at noon on August 19.
STEP INTO FALL, p 5
September 1 - November 30
SEPTEMBER
5 Yoga & Hike, p 5
5 Movie Under the Stars, p 5
6 Secret Lives of Salamanders, p 5
7 Golden Marathon, p 5
7 Make It, Take It: Toad Adobe, p 5
DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR, p 6
Saturday, September 19 - Saturday, September 26
NOVEMBER
2 Golden Marathon, p 5
7 Yoga & Hike, p 5
Scan QR code for all program dates and descriptions or to register. https://preservationparks.recdesk.com
WINTER LETTERBOX, p 7
December 19 - March 14
12 Handmade: Crafting in Early America, p 8
12 Scout Insect Day, p 6
13 The Bees Knees Stitching Circle, p 8
14 Golden Marathon, p 5
19 Model Railroaders Open House, p 6
20 Model Railroaders Open House, p 6
26 River Life Walk & Talk, p 6
27 Gallant Farm Literary & Cowpie Society, p 8
28 Golden Marathon, p 5
28 Delaware County Bird Club, p 6
30 Little Adventurers: Squirrels, p 6
OCTOBER
3 Yoga & Hike, p 5
4 Off-Trail Geology Adventure, p 6
5 Golden Marathon, p 5
10 Fall on the Farm, p 8
11 The Bees Knees Stitching Circle, p 8
12 Golden Marathon, p 5
14 Little Adventurers: Spiders, p 6
16 Scarecrow Building Contest, p 6
17 Model Railroaders Open House, p 6
18 Trick or Treat Trail, p 6
18 Model Railroaders Open House, p 6
19 Golden Marathon, p 5
20 Homeschool Adventures: Farm, p 8
24 Try It: Trek a New Trail, p 7
25 Gallant Farm Literary & Cowpie Society, p 8
26 Delaware County Bird Club, p 6
7 Honeysuckle Hackfest, p 7
8 The Bees Knees Stitching Circle, p 8
14 Make It, Take It: Bat House, p 7
14 Handmade: Crafting in Early America, p 8
15 Beaver Walk & Talk, p 7
16 Golden Marathon, p 5
16 Delaware County Bird Club, p 6
18 Little Adventurers: Bears, p 6
21 Model Railroads Open House, p 6
21 Jigsaw Puzzle Swap, p 8
22 Model Railroaders Open House, p 6
29 Gallant Farm Literary & Cowpie Society, p 8
30 Golden Marathon, p 5
DECEMBER
4 Make It, Take It: Natural Wreath, p 7
5 Yoga & Hike, p 5
5 Make it, Take It: Natural Wreath, p 7
6 Make it, Take It: Natural Wreath, p 7
7 Golden Marathon, p 5
9 Little Adventurers: Antlers, p 6
12 Handmade: Crafting in Early America, p 8
13 Winter Holiday Hoedown, p 7
14 Golden Marathon, p 5
14 Delaware County Bird Club, p 6
18 Homeschool Adventures: Mammals, p 7
19 Solstice Sunrise Hike, p 7
19 Model Railroaders Open House, p 6
20 Model Railroaders Open House, p 6
21 Golden Marathon, p 5
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
SHALE HOLLOW PARK EXHIBIT
May - August 21: Wednesday – Monday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Closed Tuesday
August 22 - September 7: Saturdays & Sundays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
CLOSING WEEKEND
MOVIE UNDER THE STARS: JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH
Saturday, September 5, 7 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, All Ages
Movie rated PG
A scientist journeys beneath the Earth to find his missing brother in this 2008 Jules Verne adaptation starring Brendan Fraser. Enjoy the What Lies Below exhibit and free popcorn before the movie starts at 9 p.m. Bring the family, lawn chairs, and blankets.
SECRET LIVES OF SALAMANDERS
Sunday, September 6, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, All Ages
Explore the hidden world of salamanders at our exhibit! Meet live salamanders and a special guest to learn how these secretive animals live underground and why they’re important to healthy ecosystems.
MAKE IT, TAKE IT: TOAD ABODE
Monday, September 7, 1 - 3 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, All Ages
Learn all about Ohio’s toads, why they’re great garden neighbors, and how to help them thrive. Then build your own toad abode to take home and add to your yard!
YOGA & HIKE
Saturdays, 10 a.m., Ages 15+
Find balance through nature inspired yoga that flows with the seasons. Connect with yourself and the natural world. All abilities welcome, limited equipment available. Stay for a guided hike.
September 5
October 3
November 7
December 5
Shale Hollow Park
Shale Hollow Park
McCammon Creek Park Barn Area
Shale Hollow Park
GOLDEN MARATHON
Presented by SourcePoint, Ages 55+
Get moving this season with SourcePoint’s Golden Marathon outdoor hikers! We hike and walk, rain or shine! Register at MySourcePoint.org/ec or with customer service. Meet at locations listed, bring your own water, and be prepared for the weather and terrain.
Mondays, 9:30 a.m.
September 7 McCammon Creek Park Barn Area
September 14
September 28
October 5
October 12
October 19
November 2
November 16
November 30
Mondays, 1:30 p.m.
December 7
December 14
December 21
Deer Haven Park
Shale Hollow Park
Emily Traphagen Park
McCammon Creek Park North Area
Hogback Ridge Park
Gallant Woods Park
Shale Hollow Park
Blues Creek Park
Char-Mar Ridge Park
Perfect Creek Park
Deer Haven Park
STEP INTO FALL: HIKE THEM ALL CHALLENGE
September 1 - November 30
OuterSpatial App, All Ages
Registration Required
Hike all Preservation Parks’ nature trails this fall, almost 19 miles in total. Register for free or purchase a hiking stick and custom medallion for $15. Then download your nature trail checklist to mark your journey.
SCOUT INSECT DAY
Saturday, September 12, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Deer Haven Park, Ages 6 - 10
Calling all Scouts! Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Brownie scouts can take steps to fulfill their insect/bug badge with drop-in stations.
MODEL RAILROADERS OPEN HOUSE
Sandel Legacy Trail Depot, All Ages
Stop by model railroad open houses during these weekends. Members of the model railway group will share the history of railroads in America.
Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
September 19, October 17, November 21, & December 19
Sundays, 12 - 4 p.m.
September 20, October 18, November 22, & December 20
RIVER LIFE WALK & TALK
Saturday, September 26, 10 a.m.
River Run Park, All Ages
Come have an adventure at River Run Park. Try aquatic dip netting, take a fall nature hike and watch swallows nesting under the bridge. See online calendar for more information. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
DELAWARE COUNTY BIRD CLUB
Mondays, 7 p.m.
September 28, October 26, November 16, & December 14
Deer Haven Park, All Ages
See Preservation Parks’ online program calendar for meeting details, special guests, and topics closer to the meeting dates.
LITTLE ADVENTURERS
Wednesdays, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Ages 5 & Under
Explore and get comfortable in nature with your little ones!
Drop in to enjoy informal self-guided stations featuring hands-on activities and crafts. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
September 30: Squirrels
Char-Mar Ridge Park
October 14: Spiders
Shale Hollow Park
November 18: Bears
Deer Haven Park
December 9: Antlers
McCammon Creek Park Barn Area
FIND US AT THE DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR!
Saturday, September 19 - Saturday, September 26 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Delaware County Fair Grounds Near the Arts & Crafts Building
Saturday, September 19 Discover Your Parks
Sunday, September 20 Picture Yourself in Preservation Parks
Monday, September 21 Conservation in Your Parks
Tuesday, September 22 What Lies Below Your Parks with Ohio Utility Public Services
Wednesday, September 23 Planning Your Parks
Thursday, September 24 - Build A Park Saturday, September 26
OFF-TRAIL GEOLOGY ADVENTURE
Sunday, October 4, 1 - 3 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, Ages 16+
Register by October 1
Join us as we explore rarely seen areas of Shale Hollow Park and learn about the park’s unique geologic features. Meet in the shelter house and be prepared to hike through the creek and over rough hilly terrain.
SCARECROW BUILDING CONTEST
Friday, October 16, 5:30 p.m.
Gallant Woods Park, All Ages Register by October 13
Sign up to build a scarecrow. Frame and stuffing provided; you bring clothing and other items to decorate your unique scarecrow. Judging will take place during the Trick or Treat Trail on October 18.
TRICK OR TREAT TRAIL
Sunday, October 18, 1 - 4 p.m.
Gallant Woods Park, All Ages
Bring kids in costume to collect treats along the enchanted trail! Enjoy pumpkin decorating, hayrides, creepy critters, scarecrows, and Gallant Farm. Free fun for all!
TRY IT: TREK A NEW TRAIL
Saturday, October 24, 10 a.m.
McCammon Creek Park East Area, All Ages
Find your stride with trekking poles. Learn simple techniques that add rhythm, balance, and efficiency to your walk as we hike the new trail at the McCammon Creek Park East Area. Poles provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
HONEYSUCKLE HACKFEST
Saturday, November 7, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Deer Haven Park, All Ages Register by November 6
Become a Hacker! Help restore our ecosystem by removing invasive honeysuckle, a threat to our natural areas. Learn effective removal techniques and yard hacks while supporting ongoing conservation efforts and family-friendly activities.
MAKE IT, TAKE IT: BAT HOUSE
Saturday, November 14, 1 p.m.
McCammon Creek Park Barn Area, All Ages
Register by November 2, $20 per box
Build a bat house to take home and discover how these nighttime neighbors benefit our ecosystems. Learn how to support local bat populations. Step by step instructions provided onsite.
BEAVER WALK AND TALK
Sunday, November 15, 2 p.m.
Char-Mar Ridge Park, All Ages
Join a naturalist for a 1.5 mile walk to learn about Ohio’s largest rodent, the beaver! Hike includes observing an active beaver lodge. Meet at the information kiosk in front of the Glacier Ridge trailhead.
MAKE IT, TAKE IT: NATURAL WREATH
McCammon Creek Park Barn Area
Register by December 1, $10 per person
Make a wreath out of natural items that you can take home to display throughout the winter season.
Friday, December 4 5:30 p.m. Ages 18+
Saturday, December 5 10 a.m. All Ages
Saturday, December 5 1:30 p.m. Ages 18+
Sunday, December 6 1 p.m. Ages 18+
WINTER HOLIDAY HOEDOWN
Sunday, December 13, 1 - 4 p.m.
McCammon Creek Park Barn Area, All Ages
Bring the family to enjoy an Americana musical holiday in the newly restored Bicentennial Barn at McCammon Creek Park. Enjoy making your own holiday crafts, cookies, concerts, folk dancing, and more.
HOMESCHOOL ADVENTURES: MAMMALS
Friday, December 18, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Deer Haven Park, Ages 6 - 12
Learn about Ohio mammals by rotating through different self-guided stations.
SOLSTICE SUNRISE HIKE
Saturday, December 19, 7:30 a.m.
Gallant Woods Park, Ages 18+
Greet the solstice sunrise and welcome the season’s turning point on the sledding hill, then hike to Gallant Farm and enjoy the warmth of a fire and beverages.
Winter Letterbox Adventure
December 19 - March 14
Various Parks, All Ages
Follow the clues for a winter exploration of five parks. Collect each parks’ secret words and unscramble them to reveal a quote and number code. Use the code to open the prize bin.
HANDMADE: CRAFTING IN EARLY AMERICA
Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
September 12, November 14, & December 12
Gallant Farm, All Ages
Step into the past and explore traditional Early American crafts. This hands-on program highlights historical skills, self-sufficiency, and the role of handmade items in daily life on the Ohio frontier.
THE BEES KNEES STITCHING CIRCLE
Sundays, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
September 13, October 11, & November 8
Gallant Farm, Ages 12+
Join us for a modern twist on the knitting circles popular in the 1930s. Bring your own knit, crochet, or other fiber project for a relaxing “crafternoon” stitching and chatting.
GALLANT FARM LITERARY AND COWPIE SOCIETY
Sundays, 2 p.m.
Gallant Farm, Ages 12+
Join us for a lively discussion of each month’s featured book. We typically read titles that were popular during the Great Depression and WWII years, or books focusing on those time periods.
September 27 Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
October 25 We the People by Jill Lepore
November 29 Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher
PROGRAMS
FALL ON THE FARM
Saturday, October 10, 12 - 3 p.m.
Gallant Farm, All Ages
Experience autumn on a 1930s farm with harvest activities, hands-on Early American crafts, and seasonal treats—celebrating the sights, smells, and tastes of fall in historical style.
HOMESCHOOL ADVENTURES: FARM
Tuesday, October 20, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Gallant Farm, Ages 6 - 12
Explore farm history through self-guided, hands-on stations designed for homeschool learners. Discover daily life, tools, and traditions while engaging in interactive activities that bring the past to life.
JIGSAW PUZZLE SWAP
Saturday, November 21, 1 - 3 pm.
Gallant Farm, All Ages
Whether you prefer a simple 300-piece puzzle or enjoy more of a challenge, come to Gallant Farm to meet other puzzlers and swap for a new-to-you jigsaw masterpiece. Bring a puzzle you have already conquered and trade for one you haven’t yet solved!
PARK UPDATES
Delaware County’s Bicentennial Barn Finds New Life at McCammon Creek Park
Long before roads or a park shaped this land, glaciers, Indigenous peoples, and generations of farm families each left their mark on this landscape. Today, those layers of history come together at McCammon Creek Park.
The centerpiece of this newest park is the Ohio Bicentennial Barn in honor of Jim and Gay McCammon. Built in the early 1900s, the barn was recently deconstructed and rebuilt on a new foundation. Original features such as beech beams, likely cut and milled nearby, support the structure, while original yellow pine sides from the Great Lakes, Vermont green slate roof, and cupola remain, as part of the new structure. The reconstruction preserves the barn’s historical character, while an attached annex includes a service kitchen, accessible restrooms with an adult changing station, storage, and office space. A lower level offers space for future classrooms.
“This project will honor the barn’s legacy while repurposing it for public programs and community use,” said Mary Van Haaften, executive director of Preservation Parks. “We’re preserving a beloved piece of Ohio history while making it accessible and functional for today’s community needs.”
Bob and Sue (McCammon) Postle donated the barn to Preservation Parks in 2019. The barn is named in honor of Sue’s parents.
The barn was one of 88 structures painted across the state to commemorate Ohio’s 200th birthday in 2003. It holds a prominent spot along I-71 and, according to the Postles, is believed to be one of the most photographed of the Bicentennial barns due to its visibility.
Funding for the barn was provided by the One-Time Strategic Community Investments Grant through Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly, contributions from the Preservation Parks Foundation, and Park District funds.
The community is encouraged to tour the barn during fall open houses, park and historical displays, an author visit, and other public programs published in this edition of The Trailhead
Public rentals will begin in January 2027. Learn more about rental information, park amenities, and future park development on our website.
McCammon Creek Park invites visitors to experience the area’s natural beauty with 248 acres of woodlands, restored stream corridors, open fields, and trails. The park sections are connected through Orange Township’s multi-use trail system. Together, these areas offer nearly five miles of trails for walking, wildlife observation, and exploration. Park amenities include trails, restrooms, fishing, hammocking, and a picnic area. More amenities are planned for future development.
FALL PUBLIC OPEN HOURS
Tour the barn and learn about rental opportunities during these fall dates:
Tuesdays: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. (Aug. 25 - Nov. 17)
Thursdays: 1 - 3 p.m. (Aug. 27 - Nov. 19)
Second Mondays: 5 - 7 p.m. (Sept. 14, Oct. 12, & Nov. 9)
Weekend days: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Sept. 13, Oct. 11, & Nov. 8)
COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE & CELEBRATION
Saturday, August 22, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. 6840 Bale Kenyon Road, Lewis Center Enjoy park tours, barn open house, activities, and light refreshments The barn will remain open until 4 p.m.
Interior of barn under construction
Exterior of barn and patio under construction
FACILITIES & RENTALS
INDOOR FACILITIES
DELAWARE COUNTY BICENTENNIAL BARN
In honor of Jim and Gay McCammon McCammon Creek Park Barn Area
RESERVATIONS START AT 9:00 A.M. SEPTEMBER 21 FOR RENTALS BEGINNING JANUARY 2, 2027.
Rental Hours:
March 1 – October 31 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
November 1 – February 28 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Capacity: 100
DELAWARE COUNTY RESIDENT/NON-PROFIT RATES:
Monday -Thursday
Two-hour minimum: $200, Add’l hours: $75/hr.
Eight-hour maximum: $650 Security Deposit: $300
Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Four-hour minimum: $1,000, Add’l hours: $200/hr.
Eight-hour maximum: $1,800 Security Deposit: $300
NON-RESIDENT RATES:
Monday - Thursday
Two-hour minimum: $300, Add’l hours: $125/hr. Eight-hour maximum: $1,050 Security Deposit: $300
Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Four-hour minimum: $1,200, Add’l hours: $250/hr. Eight-hour maximum: $2,200 Security Deposit $300
SHELTER AT BLUES CREEK PARK
Rental Hours:
CLASSROOM AT DEER HAVEN PARK
Business meetings only
Rental Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday
March 1 - October 31 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
November 1 - February 28 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Capacity: 40
NON-PROFIT RATES:
Four-hour minimum: $80
Eight-hour maximum: $160
CORPORATE RATES:
Four-hour minimum: $200
Eight-hour maximum: $400
Host your next meeting, gathering, celebration, or special event at a Preservation Parks facility. Reservable spaces are available throughout the year.
For facility details, availability, rental guidelines, and pricing, visit preservationparks.com/facilities.
Questions? Call (740) 524-8600 ext. 1, or email reservations@preservationparks.com.
OUTDOOR SHELTERS
March 1 - October 31 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. November 1 - February 28 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Capacity: 20
RENTAL RATES:
Four-hour rental: $60
Eight-hour rental: $120
NON-RESERVABLE SHELTERS
SHELTER AT GALLANT WOODS PARK
Rental Hours: March 1 - October 31 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. November 1 - February 28 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Capacity: 60
RENTAL RATES:
Four-hour rental: $60
Eight-hour rental: $120
Shale Hollow Park and Emily Traphagen Park shelters are available during park hours on a first-come, first-served basis.
