James Day Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

James Day Park is a beautiful and popular park located in the state of Ohio.


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Summary

There are several reasons to visit this park, including its gorgeous scenery, numerous recreational activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, and more in the park's expansive 220-acre setting.

Some specific points of interest to see at James Day Park include its large lake, which is perfect for fishing and boating, as well as its playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. There are also several walking trails throughout the park that offer scenic views of the surrounding area.

Interesting facts about James Day Park include that it was named after a former mayor of Parma, Ohio, and that it is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes. Another interesting fact is that the park is part of the Cleveland Metroparks system, which is known for its commitment to preserving and protecting natural areas in the state.

The best time of year to visit James Day Park depends on what activities you are interested in. During the summer months, the park is bustling with people enjoying the lake and other outdoor activities. Fall is a great time to visit for hiking and enjoying the changing colors of the trees, while winter offers opportunities for ice fishing and other winter sports. Overall, James Day Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor experience in Ohio.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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