The
Parks of Milford-Miami Township
A true
appreciation of the value of family, community and nature
Sandra Wehrman
June 2004
We take pride in our abundance of open, green space, a picture made
complete with children and families together. Our parks offer a variety
of activities
for young and old including walking trails, athletic fields, playgrounds,
skate park, grill and picnic areas, volleyball and tennis courts as well
as recreational
opportunities such as free concerts, festivals and organized family friendly
activities. No matter where you live or visit in Milford and Miami Township,
a beautiful daytime getaway is nearby.
 The
Miami Township Park System operates the Community Park/Leming
House on Buckwheat Rd. It is
a 17-acre retreat
offering 3 tennis courts, a large picnic shelter,
a quaint, babbling brook and ample parking for many of its community events
held there. The Leming House offers community activities for everyone
such as fishing basics, yoga, preschool arts, gardening, photography
and group outings. All of these events are available for a modest registration
fee. Free
concerts and family movie night are also popular features here.
The largest park
by far is the sprawling 195-acre Miami Meadows Park off State Route
131.
Just one visit to this park and you will see why it is called
the "Crowning Jewel" of the Miami Township park system. Every
year Miami Meadows is home to the Midsummer at the Meadows festivities.
This year it is being held on July 9th & 10th and includes a 5K run,
car show, food, live music and fireworks. The park offers athletic fields,
basketball
courts and a unique skateboarding area. The walking trails surround a picturesque
lake which is used as a catch and release fishing area. A snack bar and
shelter is built conveniently close to the childrens playground, complete
with swings, slides and a sand lot large enough to keep the most energetic
of
kids entertained for hours. Bring your bikes, balls and kites 'cause this
park has room for it all.
If you’re
looking for winter fun, Miami Riverview Park on Loveland-Branch Hill
Rd. is the
place to be. The 35-acre
park features a large sledding
hill. The park is still under development, but plans include athletic
fields, tennis court, picnic shelter and other recreational activities.
Its convenient location allows a direct connection with the Little Miami
Scenic Bike
Trail.
There are two other Miami Township operated parks worth noting.
Longfield Park in the Longfield subdivision and the 25-acre Paxton
Ramsey Park on Price Rd. Both have picnic shelters and playgrounds. They are wonderful
spots for meeting with friends and neighbors for a community grill
out or
just letting the children run free.
The Little
Miami Bike Trail is arguably the best-known "park" in
Milford-Miami Township. It is operated by the Ohio
Department of Natural Resources. The 80-mile trail
begins west of the bridge in Old Milford, following the original
route the Little Miami Railroad ran in 1937. It has since been paved
and
is lined
with
beautiful
forests,
fields and mostly follows along the Little Miami River. Ride your
bike, roller blade, run or walk. Just make sure to pack refreshments
and make a day of it.
The Kelly
Nature Preserve is a must-see. It is located near
Miamiville, off State Route 126. It is within Miami
Township and is operated
by the Clermont County Park
District. This area is a hidden jewel
and full of bird watching and photography opportunities. Stroll through
secluded
maintained pathways of native prairie grass fields and large forest
trees,
boasting a large variety of wild plant, flower and berry species not
found
in many places. There is also canoe access to the Little Miami
River.
Located within well manicured neighborhoods of Old Milford off
Main Street, Carriage Way Park and Clertoma
Park are stops off
the beaten
path. They
are perfect for the families with children who live nearby. They
both have a nice jungle gyms, ideal for kids playing together
on summer afternoons.
 For canoeing and
kayaking is your thing try going to the Jim Terrell Park. It was named
for Jim Terrell, an Olympic
Kayak
Team member from Milford.
It is just
past
the bridge in Old Milford, down Ferry St. towards Terrace Park.
It has a picnic area with grills and great access to the Little
Miami
River.
We are truly rich in the ample spaces we have set aside
for nature. Whether it is just relaxing with friends and family,
enjoying
soccer and softball
games, getting some exercise or a peaceful retreat into nature,
Miami Township and The City of Milford parks are perfect
daytime getaways,
in many cases,
in
our own backyard. |
