Rocky River Reservation

Take a walk through picturesque trails or host your next event at scenic Rocky River Reservation.

I heart cleveland metroparks symbol over a river
Waterfall
Bridge overlooking water and fall trees
Kids playing in water with mom overseeing them
Rocky River Reservation is located in Berea, Brook Park, Cleveland, Fairview Park, Lakewood, North Olmsted, Olmsted Township, and Rocky River. The first land purchased for Cleveland Metroparks – a 3.8 acre parcel purchased in April 1919 – can be seen from the Stinchcomb-Groth Memorial. The character of the reservation is strongly influenced by the Rocky River. Massive shale cliffs rise above the willows, sycamores and cottonwoods, and many trails wind through the valley's deep floodplain forests, meadows and wetlands. Wildlife is common in the valley and visitors can expect to see numerous bird species and some common Ohio mammals year-round, including the white-tailed deer. Visit Rocky River Nature Center to learn more.

Long and narrow, this reservation follows the winding course of the Rocky River from Berea almost to Lake Erie. The stream cuts deeply through the soft shales of the valley, carving a picturesque gorge.  The reservation includes a nature center, marina, stables, and three golf courses.  The first land purchased for Cleveland Metroparks – a 3.8 acre parcel purchased in April 1919 – can be seen from the Stinchcomb-Groth Memorial.

Worth noting – the Rocky River itself is a top steelhead fishing location, noted as one of the 150 best fishing spots in the country. View the Rocky River Stream Camera for a live look at river conditions!

Activities

Amenities

  • Ball Field

  • Drinking Fountain

  • Electricity

  • Fireplace

  • Fuel Dock

  • Golf Club Rental

  • Golf Lessons

  • Grills

  • Information / Assistance

  • Live Bait

  • Parking

  • Picnic Tables

  • Play Area

  • Power & Hand Cart Rental

  • Putting Greens

  • Restrooms

  • Shopping / Souvenirs

Attractions

  • 41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures

    41° North Coastal Kayak Adventures
  • Barrett Sledding Hill

    Barrett Sledding Hill
  • Berea Falls Scenic Overlook

    Berea Falls Scenic Overlook
    The raging waters of Rocky River that formed the Berea Falls are a piece of glacial history. Post-glacial river water found its way along the Berea sandstone, seeping through fissures and cracks to th...

Facilities

  • Cedar Point Picnic Area

    Cedar Point Picnic Area
    Big Cedar Point Picnic Area is located off Valley Parkway in Rocky River Reservation, north of Cedar Point Road in North Olmsted.
  • Cottonwood Picnic Area

    Cottonwood Picnic Area
    Cottonwood Picnic Area is located off Valley Parkway in Rocky River Reservation, south of Puritas/Mastick Road in Fairview Park.
  • Cottonwood Reserved Shelter

    Cottonwood Reserved Shelter
    Cottonwood Reserved Shelter is located on Valley Parkway in Rocky River Reservation, south of Puritas Road/Mastick Road in Fairview Park. Open-sided shelter, picnic tables, grills, non-flush restrooms...

Programs & Events

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