Old River Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Old River Park is a recreational area located in Dayton, Ohio.


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Summary

It is one of the most popular destinations for tourists who love nature and water sports. The park features a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking.

One of the good reasons to visit Old River Park is the peaceful and serene atmosphere. The park is surrounded by the beautiful Great Miami River and offers a relaxing escape from the busy city life. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views, take a walk along the riverbanks, and watch the wildlife.

There are several points of interest to see in Old River Park. The park features a butterfly garden, a playground, and picnic areas. Visitors can also rent canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats to explore the river. The park has a historic log cabin and a replica Native American village for visitors to learn about the history of the area.

Interesting facts about Old River Park include that it was once a landfill before it became a recreational area. The park has also been featured in several movies, including "The Shawshank Redemption" and "The Ides of March."

The best time of year to visit Old River Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can also enjoy the park during the spring and fall when the leaves change colors.

In conclusion, Old River Park is a beautiful and serene recreational area in Dayton, Ohio, offering a variety of outdoor activities, interesting points of interest, and a rich history. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

       

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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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