Drive on Over: 5 Favorite Local Parks Near Heath, OH

1. John C. Geller Park 

The John C. Geller Park at 480 Cynthia Street in Heath covers 51.77 acres of rolling green lawns, woodlands, and sports fields. A two-mile walking path winds through scenic areas in the park and past the two softball fields, two sand volleyball courts, and various play structures.

The park has a shelter for shade in summer, and in winter, the hill is a popular sledding destination. It’s also a community gathering place where many events are hosted throughout the year, including the annual Star Spangled Banner Celebration at the beginning of July.

2. Hoback Park 

The 20.52-acre Hoback Park, east of South 30th Street on Dorsey Mill Road, is a beautiful green space along the South Fork Licking River. A scenic trail runs along the river, with plenty of lovely spots along the banks. The park boasts a basketball court and five Little League fields where the Heath Sertoma Club hosts the Little League program, which includes the farm and varsity baseball, girls’ farm, varsity softball, and T-ball each summer.

3. Canal Lock Park

Canal Lock Park on State Route 79 in Heath is a wonderful historic destination to explore. The park is home to two historical landmarks: the original canal lock from where the Ohio and Erie Canal was dug by primarily German and Irish immigrants, and the charming 1861 Gothic Revival Davis-Shai House, built by Jackson Davis along the Canal. It’s also where Heath’s first Oktoberfest was held in 2015 as a fundraiser for the Heath Community Arts Council. 

4. The Heath City Water Park 

In summer, the Heath City Water Park is the splashiest spot in town, with everyone, young and young at heart, flocking to the park to cool off. The water park features an Olympic pool, diving and learning tanks, and diving boards. Plus, there is an exhilarating 30-foot speed slide, a 30 feet high, 229 feet long water slide, two tall drop slides, and a relaxing lazy river.

One of the highlights is the enormous water playground featuring tumble buckets, water cannons, and a spray ground complete with geysers and sprayers. There are “funbrellas” and a shelter for shade, basketball courts, and a playground.

5. Taft Reserve

Taft Reserve is a breathtaking natural area at 10250 Flint Ridge Road in Heath that spreads 425 acres over meadows and woodlands. You can wander down more than eight miles of marked trails through the beautiful surroundings on foot or in the saddle and spot birds and wildlife along the way. The park has horse-trailer parking, and you are welcome to enjoy the trails with your leashed four-legged friend.

Heath offers many recreational activities for sports and nature enthusiasts alike. While exploring Heath’s green spaces, stop at Coughlin Toyota to find the ideal vehicle for outdoor adventures.

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