Protect Possum Creek MetroPark as a natural area: Do not pick, collect or disturb plant or animal materials of any kind. Hunting, frog gigging and swimming are not permitted. Motor vehicles must remain on roads; parking is permitted in designated parking areas only. Thank you for your cooperation.

FIRES�–�Fires are allowed in designated areas only; bring your own charcoal. Do NOT bring firewood.

PETS�–�Dogs allowed on leash only. Leashes may be no longer than 8 feet. Dog droppings must be removed from walking trails.�Pets are not permitted on the farm.

ALCOHOL�–�Prohibited except by permit in reservable shelters.

BICYCLES�- Not permitted on hiking trails.

HOURS�� Park Grounds:April 1 - October 31: 8 �- 10 November 1 - March 31: 8 �- 8 Closed Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Farm Buildings: 9 �- 3:30 , daily

VISIT�THE�FARM�– You’ll fi nd small animals that can be raised on an acre or less, a short nature trail through the meadow and across the creek, and demonstration gardens and a nature play area. Animals can be seen in the barn or pastures from 9 AM to 3:30 PM. This 100-acre farm is located at the south end of the park. Use the entrance at 4790 Frytown Road and follow the signs to the farm. For group tours, call (937) 275-PARK (7275).

FISHING�– Fish free of charge and without a license in ponds and Argonne Lake. The ponds are stocked monthly with trout or catfi sh. Every summer, night fi shing hours are off ered; call (937)275-PARK (7275) or visit metroparks.org/fi shing fordetails. Non-motorized boats are permi� ed on Argonne Lake.

PICNICKING�– Reserve a shelter in a beautifulnatural se� ing for your exclusive use by visitingmetroparks.org/reservations or calling (937) 275-PARK (7275) during weekday business hours. Amenities and fees vary by shelter. Shelters that haven’t been reserved are available on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis. A variety of sites with picnic tables are also available.

WALKING�&�HIKING�– Enjoy 5.5 miles of scenic, mostly level trails. Trails are color-coded and trail intersections are marked with a number corresponding to the numbers on the inside map.

HORSE�TRAIL�– Enjoy a 4.5-mile equestrian trail. Horses can be unloaded at the horse trailer parking lot off Frytown Road. Rentals are not available.

COMMUNITY�GARDENS�– Approximately 90 community garden plots are available near the farm. Plot reservations must be made in person at the farm starting the fi rst Monday in April. Visit metroparks.org/communitygardening or call (937)275-PARK(7275) to learn more.

WINTER�RECREATION��CROSS-COUNTRY�SKIING�&�HIKING��– Visitors are invited to cross-country ski when snowfall is suffi cient. Trails are open year-round for hiking.

CAMPING�– Overnight camping is available with a permit. Call Five Rivers MetroParks at (937) 275-PARK (7275) or visit the main offi ce between 9 to 4 . weekdays at 409 E. Monument Ave., third fl oor, in downtown Dayton.CONSERVATION�

RECREATION�

EDUCATION

For Year-Round Fun, Escape to Possum Creek MetroPark

It’s our nature.

Photography credit line for any image

Things to DoInformation & Regulations

PossumCreekMetroParkPossum Creek MetroPark consists largely of former farmland that is going through the process of natural succession. Significant natural features include bottomland hardwood forests along Possum Creek, two mature beech woodlots, and numerous created ponds and wetlands. More than 100 acres of degraded farmland and dumps have been cleared and planted into native Ohio prairie. The prairie took years to establish, but now thrives on the poor ground. It is currently one of the largest and most diverse planted prairies in Ohio.

Fishing ponds, open vistas painted with colorful flowers, woodlands and wildlife provide the setting for a variety of activities. This 556-acre park is the perfect place for a family outing. Fish, picnic, hike, walk or horseback ride your way through scenic woods and prairies.

1.Picnic Shelter2.Restroom3.Education Building4.Farmhouse5.Barn6.Chicken House7.Rabbit House8.Pond9.Demonstration Fields10.Nature Play Area

Farm Trailstarts here

1

10

2

3

4

5

6

7

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FARM

Volunteer OpportunitiesIf you enjoy the outdoors, farm animals and gardening, Possum Creek MetroPark is the place for you. Special programs, events and learning experiences are made possible through volunteer participation. In addition, volunteers plant and maintain the farm’s flower beds and assist with the community gardens. Training sessions are offered throughout the year to increase your skills and knowledge. Call 937-275-PARK (7275) or visit metroparks.org/volunteerfor more information.

Support Your MetroParksBy making a donation to the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation, you support Five Rivers MetroParks’ mission to protect the region’s natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. Donations are tax deductible and used to support programs and special projects. Sponsorships, tribute benches and trees, and planned giving options also are available. Visit metroparks.org/donate or call 937-275-PARK for more information.

It’s our nature.This park is one of 25 outstanding public facilities operated by your Five Rivers MetroParks system. Founded in 1963 to serve the greater Dayton area, MetroParks protects more than 15,800 acres of open space and provides year-round recreation, education and conservation opportunities. Facilities are available to the public free of charge — made possible by Montgomery County citizen support of aproperty tax levy.

For More InformationAdministrative Offi ces .................................937-275-PARK (7275)Website ............................................................. www.metroparks.org

Ranger AssistanceContact the Montgomery CountySheriff ’s Offi ce dispatcher at: 937-535-2580

METROPARKS�ORG

U S E R ’ S � G U I D E � & � M A P

POSSUM�CREEKMETROPARK

It’s our nature.

Possum Creek MetroPark 4790 Frytown RoadDayton, Ohio 45417

�����•�����

Printed in Montgomery County, with vegetable-based inks on 10% post-consumer waste paper at a Forest Stewardship Council-certifi ed facility.

9

Protect Possum Creek MetroPark as a natural area: Do not pick, collect or disturb plant or animal materials of any kind. Hunting, frog gigging and swimming are not permitted. Motor vehicles must remain on roads; parking is permitted in designated parking areas only. Thank you for your cooperation.

FIRES�–�Fires are allowed in designated areas only; bring your own charcoal. Do NOT bring firewood.

PETS�–�Dogs allowed on leash only. Leashes may be no longer than 8 feet. Dog droppings must be removed from walking trails.�Pets are not permitted on the farm.

ALCOHOL�–�Prohibited except by permit in reservable shelters.

BICYCLES�- Not permitted on hiking trails.

HOURS�� Park Grounds:April 1 - October 31: 8 �- 10 November 1 - March 31: 8 �- 8 Closed Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Farm Buildings: 9 �- 3:30 , daily

VISIT�THE�FARM�– You’ll fi nd small animals that can be raised on an acre or less, a short nature trail through the meadow and across the creek, and demonstration gardens and a nature play area. Animals can be seen in the barn or pastures from 9 AM to 3:30 PM. This 100-acre farm is located at the south end of the park. Use the entrance at 4790 Frytown Road and follow the signs to the farm. For group tours, call (937) 275-PARK (7275).

FISHING�– Fish free of charge and without a license in ponds and Argonne Lake. The ponds are stocked monthly with trout or catfi sh. Every summer, night fi shing hours are off ered; call (937) 275-PARK (7275) or visit metroparks.org/fi shing for details. Non-motorized boats are permi� ed on Argonne Lake.

PICNICKING�– Reserve a shelter in a beautifulnatural se� ing for your exclusive use by visitingmetroparks.org/reservations or calling (937) 275-PARK (7275) during weekday business hours. Amenities and fees vary by shelter. Shelters that haven’t been reserved are available on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis. A variety of sites with picnic tables are also available.

WALKING�&�HIKING�– Enjoy 5.5 miles of scenic, mostly level trails. Trails are color-coded and trail intersections are marked with a number corresponding to the numbers on the inside map.

HORSE�TRAIL�– Enjoy a 4.5-mile equestrian trail. Horses can be unloaded at the horse trailer parking lot off Frytown Road. Rentals are not available.

COMMUNITY�GARDENS�– Approximately 90 community garden plots are available near the farm. Plot reservations must be made in person at the farm starting the fi rst Monday in April. Visit metroparks.org/communitygardening or call (937) 275-PARK(7275) to learn more.

WINTER�RECREATION��CROSS-COUNTRY�SKIING�&�HIKING��– Visitors are invited to cross-country ski when snowfall is suffi cient. Trails are open year-round for hiking.

CAMPING�– Overnight camping is available with a permit. Call Five Rivers MetroParks at (937) 275-PARK (7275) or visit the main offi ce between 9 to 4 . weekdays at 409 E. Monument Ave., third fl oor, in downtown Dayton. CONSERVATION�

R E C R E A T I O N�

E D U C A T I O N

For Year-Round Fun, Escape to Possum Creek MetroPark

It’s our nature.

Photography credit line for any image

Things to Do Information & Regulations

PossumCreekMetroParkPossum Creek MetroPark consists largely of former farmland that is going through the process of natural succession. Significant natural features include bottomland hardwood forests along Possum Creek, two mature beech woodlots, and numerous created ponds and wetlands. More than 100 acres of degraded farmland and dumps have been cleared and planted into native Ohio prairie. The prairie took years to establish, but now thrives on the poor ground. It is currently one of the largest and most diverse planted prairies in Ohio.

Fishing ponds, open vistas painted with colorful flowers, woodlands and wildlife provide the setting for a variety of activities. This 556-acre park is the perfect place for a family outing. Fish, picnic, hike, walk or horseback ride your way through scenic woods and prairies.

1. Picnic Shelter2. Restroom3. Education Building4. Farmhouse5. Barn6. Chicken House7. Rabbit House 8. Pond9. Demonstration Fields10. Nature Play Area

Farm Trailstarts here

1

10

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

FARM

Volunteer OpportunitiesIf you enjoy the outdoors, farm animals and gardening, Possum Creek MetroPark is the place for you. Special programs, events and learning experiences are made possible through volunteer participation. In addition, volunteers plant and maintain the farm’s flower beds and assist with the community gardens. Training sessions are offered throughout the year to increase your skills and knowledge. Call 937-275-PARK (7275) or visit metroparks.org/volunteer for more information.

Support Your MetroParksBy making a donation to the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation, you support Five Rivers MetroParks’ mission to protect the region’s natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. Donations are tax deductible and used to support programs and special projects. Sponsorships, tribute benches and trees, and planned giving options also are available. Visit metroparks.org/donate or call 937-275-PARK for more information.

It’s our nature.This park is one of 25 outstanding public facilities operated by your Five Rivers MetroParks system. Founded in 1963 to serve the greater Dayton area, MetroParks protects more than 15,800 acres of open space and provides year-round recreation, education and conservation opportunities. Facilities are available to the public free of charge — made possible by Montgomery County citizen support of aproperty tax levy.

For More InformationAdministrative Offi ces .................................937-275-PARK (7275)Website .............................................................www.metroparks.org

Ranger AssistanceContact the Montgomery CountySheriff ’s Offi ce dispatcher at: 937-535-2580

METROPARKS�ORG

USER’S�GUIDE�&�MAP

POSSUM�CREEKMETROPARK

It’s our nature.

Possum Creek MetroPark 4790 Frytown RoadDayton, Ohio 45417

�����•�����

Printed in Montgomery County, with vegetable-based inks on 10% post-consumer waste paper at a Forest Stewardship Council-certifi ed facility.

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Farm

CommunityFarm-house

Barn

Shank Road

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Tall Grass Prairie

Possum Creek

Argonne Lake

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ArgonneForest

Tall GrassPrairie

Tall GrassPrairie

Prairie-Dock

Shelter

Wildlife Pond(Catch and release;

fish from levee only.)

4730Frytown Rd. *

(Reservable Area)

Sold

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0.97 miles

Horse TrailerParking

5000 Frytown Rd.

4790Frytown Rd.

Frytown Road

ArgonneForestParking

HickoryShelter

PondParking

Jean V.Woodhull

Prairie

FarmShelter

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813

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2

9

35

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PARK FEATURES

TALL GRASS PRAIRIESThese open areas consist of grasses that reachheights of 6 to 10 feet by late summer and are filledwith a variety of wildflowers (forbs) that add colorto the sea of grass. Prairie wildflowers reach theirblooming peak in mid summer and early fall. PossumCreek’s prairie areas were planted starting in 1980to serve as a haven for the now rare plants andanimals that once inhabited natural prairie openingsin southwestern Ohio’s woodlands.

Scale: 1 inch = 0.12 miles

0 0.12 0.24

THE JEAN V. WOODHULLPRAIRIEThis planted prairie is named in honor of Jean V.Woodhull for her outstanding contributions to FiveRivers MetroParks. In 1962, she was instrumental increating the Save Open Space Commi�ee that ledto the creation of MetroParks. In addition, Mrs.Woodhull served on the MetroParks Board of ParkCommissioners from January 1989 to November 1998.

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COMMUNITY GARDENSThis 2.5 acre plot at Possum Creek MetroPark isnurtured by more than 50 gardeners from the region who grow vegetables, herbs and flowers each yearin 20 foot by 40 foot plots, rented from May throughSeptember. Possum Creek and Wegerzyn Gardenshouse the only two community gardens in Five RiversMetroParks. Both are part of the Five RiversMetroParks Community Gardening program, whichhelps community groups develop neighborhoodgardens throughout Montgomery County. For more information and the latest map of community gardens, visit metroparks.org/communitygardening or call (937) 276-7053.

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ARGONNE FORESTWalk through the Argonne Forest following thepurple loop trail and discover a beautiful woodlandsdominated by old beech trees. In the 1930s andearly 1940s, these woods were part of an amusementpark known as the Argonne Forest Park. It wascreated by Null Hodapp and named in honor of the322nd Field Artillery Unit that fought in the ArgonneForest in France during World War I. The parkincluded a swimming pool, shooting range, balldiamond, dance hall, auto race track, cabins andstreet cars. Stop at the marked sites along the wayto discover remnants of the amusement park.

POSSUM CREEK METROPARK

Five Rivers MetroParks supports the Americans with DisabilitiesAct by making reasonable accommodations in servingindividuals with disabilities. Programs and facilities are offeredon a non-discriminatory basis. If accommodations are needed,please call (937) 275-PARK (7275) at least one week in advance.

Five Rivers MetroParks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ParkOperations

SycamoreShelter

entrance

parking

park information

restrooms

telephone

LEGEND:

picnic area

reservable shelter

wheelchair accessible

fishing

non-motorized boats

camping

stream/intermi�ent stream

lake or pond

marsh

woods

path

park boundary

park road

public road

service road

park feature

Color-Coded Hiking TrailsT R A I LK E Y green trail = 0.3 miles

red trail = 0.5 milesblue trail = 1.0 milespink trail = 1.2 milesyellow trail = 1.3 milespurple trail = 1.4 milesorange trail = 3.5 milestrail intersection1

orange trailgreen trail

location markerA

Color-Coded Horse Trails

Sugar MapleCampsiteCampsite

BlackCherry

blue trail

Gardens

entrance is closed in winter (Nov 1-March 31)*

The Education Center at Possum Creek MetroPark is home to public educational programs year-round. These programs focus mainly on local food and the environment.

EDUCATION�CENTER

EducationCenter

Tulip PoplarCampsite

BuckeyeCampsite

LakeviewCampsite