Know Before You Go: Fourth of July in Cleveland Metroparks

With Independence Day celebrations just around the corner, Cleveland Metroparks is reminding guests to celebrate safely while enjoying the region's parks, beaches, trails, waterways, and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

The Fourth of July holiday weekend is one of the busiest times of the year for Cleveland Metroparks, welcoming thousands of visitors across its 18 reservations, lakefront parks, marinas and trails. Due to high visitation expected at lakefront destinations, including Edgewater Park, Whiskey Island, Wendy Park and surrounding marinas and yacht clubs, guests are encouraged to arrive early and plan. Vehicular access to park entrances will close once parking lots reach capacity. Visitors should expect increased traffic and limited parking, particularly along the Lakefront, and are asked to follow posted signs, obey officers directing traffic and park only in designated areas.

Cleveland Metroparks Police will be present on foot, bicycles, horseback and in patrol vehicles to assist with traffic flow and public safety throughout the holiday weekend. As a reminder, fireworks of any kind are strictly prohibited in all Cleveland Metroparks.

Swim Safety

For guests visiting beaches and swimming areas, it’s recommended that guests only swim in designated swim areas during lifeguarded hours. Guests can plan ahead by visiting clevelandmetroparks.com/watersafety for safety tips, guarded locations and hours, and swimming conditions.

Boating

For boaters on the holiday, please be aware of all locations with public boat launch access. Cleveland Metroparks offers public boat launch access at the Emerald Necklace Marina in Rocky River Reservation, Gordon Park Boat Launch in Lakefront Reservation, Wildwood Park in Euclid Creek Reservation as well as the Edgewater Park Boat Launch in Lakefront Reservation.

Water Rentals 

Water rentals are available throughout the holiday weekend at Hinckley Lake. Guests can enjoy kayaks, paddleboards and other seasonal watercraft while exploring Cleveland Metroparks waterways and lakefront destinations. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/waterrentals for details.

See Something, Say Something

Cleveland Metroparks Police will be present on foot, bikes, patrol cruisers and horseback to assist in parking and safety. In case of emergency, please notify Cleveland Metroparks Police Headquarters immediately by calling 440-333-4911 or calling 911. Non-life-threatening situations should be reported to Cleveland Metroparks Police at 440-331-5530.

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