By:
Submission
Headwaters Park is a 926-acre reservation located in Claridon and Huntsburg townships. The property is leased by Geauga Park District from the City of Akron in a partnership that allows for conservation of natural areas, enjoyment by park visitors, and outdoor education and passive recreation. It is Geauga Park District's intent to mange this natural area and to protect the water quality for aquatic life and downstream neighbors.
Prior to 1932, the east branch of the Cuyahoga River meandered through a lush ravine as it made its way through Claridon and Huntsburg townships. Picnickers enjoyed many summer afternoons along it's banks; vacationers escaped to cottages nestled around adjacent Crystal Lake and along the river's edge.
When the City of Akron began purchasing land in Geauga County in 1932, the cottages and neighboring farmhouses were moved and a dam was built to impound the waters in East Branch Reservoir.
Having secured a stable water supply for the businesses and homes in their community, City of Akron officials opened the reservoir and surrounding land to local residents in 1959. In 1996, Geauga Park District's Board of Park Commissioners signed an agreement to lease the land and reservoir, and renamed the area Headwaters Park because of its location at the upper reaches of the Cuyahoga River.
Visitor activities are regulated by Geauga Park District in accordance with the City of Akron in order to achieve mutual stewardship goals of protecting natural resources and water quality.
Camping is available by permit in the designated tent pad or lean-to sites. Reservations for all facilities can be made online or by calling the Park District office.
From Erie and points north: Travel Old State Road (Route 608) approximately 2.2 miles south of Route 322/Mayfield Road. Park entrance is on the east side of the road. A second parking area is located on Mayfield Road, about 0.6 miles east of Route 608.
From Akron and points south: Travel Route 608 approximately 3.3 miles north of Kinsman Road (Route 87). Park entrance is on the east side of the road.
From Cleveland and points west: Travel I-90 E to I-271 S. Exit US-322 E toward Mayfield Hts. Right on Old State Road/OH-608. Park entrance is on east side of road
Beautiful Park. Very clean pit toilets. The water, Primitive camping by reservation, and the Maple Highlands Trail make this a great place for recreation!
A great trail to bike and just chill and enjoy. The trail (last time I visited) is blocked off from bikers. Most of these photos are from off trail biking in the area. I always state, "All Roads Lead to Adventure". I would not have seen the great countryside if I did not venture off trail.
This is where the beautiful crooked Cuyahoga River starts. Very secluded scenic spot. Great place for a hike or flying my drone.
The Cuyahoga watershed begins its 100-mile journey in Hambden, Ohio, flowing southward to the confluence of the East Branch Cuyahoga River and West Branch Cuyahoga River in Burton, where the Cuyahoga River officially begins. It continues on its 84.9 miles journey flowing southward to Akron and Cuyahoga Falls, where it turns sharply north and flows through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in northern Summit County and southern Cuyahoga County. It then flows through Independence, Valley View, Cuyahoga Heights, Newburgh Heights and Cleveland to its northern terminus, emptying into Lake Erie. The Cuyahoga River and its tributaries drain 813 square miles of land in portions of six counties.
This park is beautiful for kayaking and paddle board. Highly recommend. As lso there are nice trails along the lake to hike and fish.
A little Hidden Gem a sweet spot among the beautiful lands of Geauga County. Not to mention if you're a jog County resident you're able to use them for free. Campgrounds are great the lake and surrounding area is fantastic see wildlife non-stop Birds diving for fish herons Eagles you name it. Not to mention the memories that you'll have made with your family whenever you're going with or even if it's yourself. Very accommodating so much to do boardwalks places to set up hammocks. Our family and I come here every single weekend. Our boys are 13 and 14 and just enjoy just as much as they did when they were younger. We love this place there's nothing else to it. Just remember to please keep it clean.
