All horse trailer parking has been permanently relocated to the lot on New Jasper Station Road.
Park Hours Changing This Summer
Effective July 6, 2026, public park hours will change. Greene County Parks & Trails will no longer be open 24 hours for legitimate recreational use. The hours will be sunrise to sunset.
If a person has a permit for park use (shelters, Clifton Lodge, Blue Jacket room, etc.), they will be allowed to be in the park until the end time stated on their permit.
Signs will be posted in all parks to publicize the change in our hours policy. If you have a question, please contact us.
Trail Closure Notice! Oldtown Section of Little Miami Scenic Trail
The Little Miami Scenic Trail in Oldtown will be fully closed for approximately two months to allow for necessary construction work related to the pedestrian bridge project.
This closure is required so crews can safely remove a portion of the existing trail and rebuild it to properly connect with the new bridge. The project will include raising the trail grade, installing new asphalt, and making additional safety improvements.
Detours will be clearly marked, and signage is already being installed to help guide trail users safely around the closure.
We appreciate your patience as these improvements are completed to enhance the long-term safety and quality of the trail.
Visit that park, find those specific landmarks, markings, etc. and snap a selfie with each of them in the background. (We have to be able to see it!)
Upload those photos using the form below!
Those who find every hidden item, at each of the parks each month, will receive an awesome prize from GCP&T!
The Pathfinder Newsletter – Spring 2026
Hello, neighbor!
– notes from our director, Richard Kharman
As I write this, it’s a wonderful day to reflect on the season of growth we are entering. Since moving my family to western Ohio last June, I have been struck by the way this community embraces the changing landscape. For me, these transitions are a reminder of why I’ve spent decades in the Parks and Recreation industry. From my first job at an ice rink in the late 90s to serving as a Senior Manager in Maryland, I’ve learned that a park system is never static; it is a living, breathing part of the neighborhood.
Investing in Our Foundation
One of the things I am most passionate about is technical durability. We want our amenities to last for generations, not just seasons. Currently, we are hard at work on several infrastructure projects that reflect this commitment. One highlight is the replacing and repair of the curbing and walkways throughout our system. While these might seem like small details, they are the vital connectors that allow all of us to navigate our parks safely. By prioritizing high-quality materials and proactive maintenance, we are ensuring these pathways remain accessible for decades, not just years.
By choosing high-quality materials and focusing on long-term maintenance, we are ensuring that your tax dollars and our shared resources are used wisely. It’s a role I take seriously and with pride. Balancing the “fun” of recreation with the “grit” of facility management is what keeps our system strong.
Stewardship in Action
Conservation and recreation are the two pillars we build on here at Greene County. As an avid cyclist, I’m often out on the trails myself, seeing firsthand how important it is to protect our natural corridors while making them accessible. Balancing these two won’t always be easy. However, by recognizing the effects of our recreational activities and involving you in our conservation efforts, we can guarantee both ecological well-being and ongoing enjoyment for years to come.
As the weather warms, we are rolling out a full calendar of exciting programs and events throughout the year designed to get you back into your “backyard.” From guided educational tours, such as Maple Sugaring which was led by our dedicated staff, to our larger community events and volunteer cleanup days, there are countless ways to get involved and enjoy the fresh air.
A Shared Backyard
The sight of families using our lands every day brings a lot of pride to our team. Whether you are here for a competitive match on the new pickleball courts or a quiet hike to clear your head, please remember that this space belongs to you. We’ll continue encouraging responsible visitor conduct – like staying on designated paths – to ensure that our collective dedication to environmental conservation remains a top priority.
I look forward to seeing you out there. This community has welcomed my family with open arms, and it is a great honor to return that warmth by serving as your Director. So, welcome to your backyard!
Early Signs of Spring at Pearl’s Fen
As winter begins to recede, Pearl’s Fen offers a compelling look at one of the earliest signs of seasonal change. Among the first plants to emerge in this unique wetland is skunk cabbage, a species notable for both its distinctive appearance and its unusual ability to generate heat.
Skunk cabbage often appears while snow and ice are still present, pushing through frozen soil with ease. Its mottled purple, hood-like structure, known as a spathe, surrounds a central spike of tiny flowers. What sets this plant apart is its capacity for thermogenesis, a process in which it produces metabolic heat by rapidly breaking down stored starches. Temperatures within the plant can rise significantly above the surrounding air, in some cases approaching that of the human body.
This heat production serves several important functions. It allows skunk cabbage to melt nearby ice, ensuring early emergence, and helps protect its tissues from freezing damage. Additionally, the warmth aids in volatilizing its strong odor, which resembles decaying organic matter. This scent, combined with the elevated temperature, attracts early pollinators such as flies and beetles, which rely on both cues when few other resources are available.
Pearl’s Fen provides ideal conditions for this species. As a groundwater-fed wetland, it maintains stable, mineral-rich conditions that support specialized plant communities. In early spring, the fen remains quiet and subdued, offering visitors an opportunity to observe these subtle but remarkable processes firsthand.
A walk through Pearl’s Fen during this transitional period reveals the ingenuity of native plants and the quiet but persistent onset of spring.
The Great Pancake Pickup
The 2026 Greene County Parks & Trails Great Pancake Pickup at Caesar Ford Park, held on Saturday, March 7th, was a fantastic success and a perfect way to spend a winter morning.
In a busy world, the Great Pancake Pickup offers a chance to slow down and enjoy the little things: a calm drive through nature, a friendly wave from staff, and the comfort of a warm meal waiting for you. It’s not about anything fancy, it’s about creating a moment that feels easy, welcoming, and connected to the community. For many, it’s become a small tradition that marks the season and brings people together in a low-key, feel-good way.
For Greene County Parks & Trails, that simplicity is intentional. Events like the Great Pancake Pickup are not only fundraisers, they’re also a way to give back to the community that supports the parks year-round. By creating an experience that’s accessible, affordable, and enjoyable for all ages, GCP&T is able to connect with residents in a meaningful way while inviting them to spend time in the parks, even in the winter months.
This year’s drive-through ran smoothly from start to finish, thanks to the hard work of Greene County Parks & Trails employees. Staff kept things moving efficiently while still bringing a friendly, upbeat energy to each stop along the way. Smiles, waves, and warm greetings added a personal touch that made the morning feel even more special.
Each meal featured a classic, comforting combination of fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and syrup, fresh, warm, and ready to enjoy. Guests continued on their way to enjoy their breakfast at home, making it a convenient and cozy start to the day. In total, more than 1,700 meals were served, and the event raised $3,500 in support of Greene County Parks & Trails.
All in all, the 2026 Great Pancake Pickup was a great reminder that sometimes the simplest experiences are the most memorable. Greene County Parks & Trails extends a big thank you to the staff who made it happen and to everyone who came out to participate. We’re grateful for such a supportive community and look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come!
Upcoming Events
Selfie Scavenger Hunt
May 1 Turn your park visits into an adventure! From May through August, explore a new park each month, hunt for hidden landmarks, and snap selfies along the way. Share your finds on Facebook for a chance to win awesome prizes and create some fun memories while you’re at it!
Backyard Cruise-In & Swap Meet
June 6 Rev up for a summer evening of classic cars, great music, and community fun! Join us at Caesar Ford Park for a free Cruise-In featuring vintage rides, food, and good vibes. Bring your vehicle or just come enjoy the show, plus participants have a chance to win door prizes!
NOTE: previously scheduled Grand Opening event has been cancelled.
Greene County Parks & Trails continues to invest in recreation opportunities that reflect the interests and needs of the community, and now one of the fastest-growing sports in the country is taking center stage.
You’re invited to come on out and experience the new pickleball courts at Fairgrounds Recreation Center. This exciting addition is part of the county’s ongoing commitment to creating welcoming spaces where residents of all ages can stay active, connect with others, and try something new.
Pickleball’s rapid rise in popularity is no surprise. It is fun, social, and easy to learn. By bringing dedicated courts to the park system, Greene County Parks & Trails is ensuring that local residents have access to the kinds of amenities they are asking for and already enjoying.
Whether you are an experienced player or just curious about the game, this grand opening is a great opportunity to come out, see the new courts, meet others in the community, and be part of something new. Join us to celebrate another step forward in building a stronger, more active Greene County.
Effective July 6, 2026, public park hours will change. Greene County Parks & Trails will no longer be open 24 hours for legitimate recreational use. The hours will be sunrise to sunset.
If a person has a permit for park use (shelters, Clifton Lodge, Blue Jacket room, etc.), they will be allowed to be in the park until the end time stated on their permit.
Signs will be posted in all parks to publicize the change in our hours policy. If you have a question, please contact us.
Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA) has announced its 2025 Annual Awards of Excellence winners and a number of local agencies have been recognized.
Locally, Greene County Parks & Trails won a 3rd place award in the Adaptive category for Camp Weebalong.
Designed to address a critical gap in accessible programming, Camp Weebalong offered flexible, ability-inclusive activities that allowed every participant to engage at their own pace, including adapted experiences like solar-powered s’mores, sensory-based creek exploration, and modified shelter-building. Developed with input from parents and caregivers, the program used creative adaptations to ensure meaningful participation for every camper, while also fostering social connection, confidence, and emotional well-being. Caregivers attended alongside campers to provide support and build community with one another, creating a welcoming environment for the entire family. Camp Weebalong was an exciting way to offer inclusive outdoor recreation, rooted in the belief that nature is for everyone!
The OPRA Annual Awards of Excellence will be presented at a banquet hosted by the association on February 3, 2026 at the Kalahari Convention Center in Sandusky, Ohio. One first place award winner will be presented with the 2025 Governor’s Award for Parks and Recreation, a “best-in-show” award which includes a $500 contribution to the parks and recreation foundation of the agency winner.
“Parks and recreation professionals throughout Ohio work every day to improve the quality of life of the people they serve,” said OPRA Executive Director Woody Woodward. “This effort is a shining example of that kind of work, and we are pleased to be able to present this award.”
The awards are judged by a panel of parks and recreation professionals from around Ohio.
Incorporated in 1963, OPRA is a non-profit, public interest organization representing over 2,600 professionals and citizen board members striving to provide quality parks and recreation facilities and opportunities for all Ohioans while protecting and preserving Ohio’s natural resources, positively impacting local economies and health and wellness of its citizens.
To better support our customers, we are transitioning to a new software system for program registrations and facility reservations. This system will provide a better experience all around and will make it much easier for you to enjoy all that Greene County Parks & Trails has to offer. What does this mean for you?
Program Registrations
Our current system has programs posted through May. June through December will be available in the new system by June. Interested in our hikes, homeschool programs, crafts, and more? Take a look and sign up!
Facility Reservations
Looking to reserve a facility, field, shelter, or campsite? That part of the system is available now, but may be shut off for a short period at some point so we can transfer reservation data from the old system to the new system. We anticipate that the new system will be ready to launch on June 1.
We appreciate your understanding during this time as we work hard to continue providing positive experiences for you all!
For generations in Xenia, Christmas didn’t truly begin until Santa moved into his little house on the Greene County Courthouse lawn.
Starting in the 1950s, families would bundle up and head downtown just to see Santa, tucked inside his house at the foot of the courthouse. Kids waited their turn in wool hats and mittens, eager to climb inside and tell Santa exactly what they hoped to find under the tree. The entire square was wrapped in holiday magic, and a visit to Santa’s house became a cherished tradition.
Then, over the decades, the tradition faded. The little house found a new home, and “remember when Santa was at the courthouse?” became something people said with a nostalgic sigh.
But not anymore!
Greene County Parks & Trails is bringing Santa on the Courthouse back!
Jump in the car and bring the kids to downtown Xenia on December 12 , 13 , 19 , or 20 to meet Santa, receive a commemorative gift, and make new lifelong memories.
Richard Kharman
I’m honored and excited to introduce myself as the new Director for Greene County Parks & Trails.
As I write this, it’s a beautiful day to reflect on how we become who we are. I’m sure many of you would like to know a little about me. My family moved to western Ohio from the Washington D.C. metro area this past June. I have spent two-thirds of my life in the Parks and Recreation industry. I began my career in the recreation industry as a seasonal staff member in the late 90s, working at an ice rink. In 2005, I decided that a career in the Parks and Recreation field was for me, and I started as an entry-level maintenance worker with a large park district in the region.
I slowly made my way through the maintenance ranks, gradually taking on roles from maintenance worker to Playground Inspector to Park Manager to Senior Manager in Montgomery County, Maryland. With over twenty years dedicated to serving diverse communities and supporting environmental stewardship, my work has consistently centered on helping people enjoy the outdoors. To say it is a huge part of my life would be an understatement
I am quite passionate about sports and being outdoors. These passions are what drove me into the parks and recreation lifestyle. Being out in nature is good for the soul. I am fortunate to be a steward of parklands, and it is a great honor that I do not take lightly. Whether it’s fighting for the conservation of our precious lands or developing spaces for the public to enjoy, serving the public in this manner brings me immense joy. The sight of families using our lands every day brings a lot of pride.
I thrived in my role as Senior Manager for the last seven years. Though I loved everything about Maryland, it was never going to be my final destination. My wife and I always planned to retire in another part of the country. We also wanted a place we could raise our young family, travel, and spend time outdoors. Western Ohio kept drawing our attention, checking all the boxes. We have had numerous people tell us how Ohio was a wonderful place to raise children. The location would get us closer to some family and friends. Additionally, there are many nearby destinations to explore.
These days, I am an avid cyclist and spend most of my time out in nature. We were already eyeing a move to western Ohio, and when a position opened up with Greene County Parks & Trails, I jumped at the opportunity to join such a wonderful park system and community. This feels like where I am meant to be.
I look forward to continuing to grow and build upon programs and amenities for the people of Greene County and beyond. Conservation and recreation are two pillars we can build on. Balancing these two won’t be easy. However, by recognizing the effects of recreational activities and involving the community in conservation efforts, neighborhoods can guarantee both ecological well-being and ongoing enjoyment of natural areas for generations to come. We’ll continue designating parks for various purposes, encouraging responsible visitor conduct such as remaining on designated paths and reducing environmental impacts, and cultivating public stewardship to establish a collective dedication to environmental conservation. This is a role I take seriously and with pride. After all, it all belongs to you!
So, welcome to your backyard! It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood. Won’t you be my neighbor?
All proceeds to benefit the Greene County Suicide Prevention Veteran Subcommittee
XENIA, OH — Greene County Parks & Trails (GCP&T) is proud to announce that the 2025 Greene County Bike Tour for Veteran Suicide Prevention raised $1,800 in support of the Greene County Suicide Prevention Veteran Subcommittee (GCSPVS).
The check presentation on Tuesday, August 12 , included GCP&T Director Chuck Frazier, Assistant Director Richard Kharman, volunteer Trail Sentinels, and GCSPVS representatives (Captain Dennis Eng, Scott Page, Andrew Ullom, Bill Hoying, Wanda Ortiz Thayne, Teresa Innocent, Desiree Rollyson, Tim Spradlin). The donation reflects the strong commitment of the Greene County community to support local veterans and raise awareness about suicide prevention efforts. As a member of the military for 35 years, Chief Ranger Darrell Hanna was excited to see this event come to life: “The work done by the Veteran Subcommittee is very important for many who feel they have nowhere to turn. Collaboration between our organizations could make a real difference in someone’s life.”
The one-day ride was designed to showcase the extensive trail system in Greene County, with routes of 10, 30, and 60 miles, all supported by rest stops, refreshments, and on-trail assistance provided by the dedicated Trail Sentinel volunteers. Riders departed between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. from the Fairgrounds Recreation Center and enjoyed scenic views along the Creekside Trail, Little Miami Scenic Trail, Xenia-Jamestown Connector, and the Ohio to Erie Trail.
The event was made possible through the combined efforts of Greene County Parks & Trails, the committed Trail Sentinels, and generous sponsors including Rodriguez Financial Strategies, LLC of Beavercreek, White Allen Chevrolet European Group, and GLD Communications.
“This event is about more than just cycling; it’s about community,” said Gery Deer, Trail Sentinel volunteer and event liaison. “Our trails offer connection – both with nature and with each other—and we’re channeling that spirit into something truly impactful for veterans in our area.” Deer’s company, GLD Communications, also proudly sponsored the event.
Mark Your Calendar!
The next Greene County Bike Tour for Veteran Suicide Prevention is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, 2026, and will again begin at the Fairgrounds Recreation Center in Xenia. For more information or to get involved, visit www.gcparkstrails.com or call (937) 562-6440.
Total Solar eclipse 2024
April 8, 2024 | Greene County, Ohio
Most GCP&T parks will be within the path of totality starting at 3:10pm EDT on Monday, April 8, 2024. See interactive Greene County map below.
This FREE event is no ordinary tailgating experience! Bring out the whole family and join us as we learn about the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse! The last total solar eclipse visible in Ohio was in 1806, the next total solar eclipse in Ohio will be in the year 2099! There will be games, crafts and more!
Change is coming!To provide the best customer service possible, we will be upgrading our reservation/registration system in 2024. This new system will allow you to:
Create your own account that will let you review and manage your activities and rentals.
Re-print your own receipts and permits.
Set up auto-pay plans.
…and so much more!
We will be shutting down our current system at the end of December so that we can transfer all current rentals and 2024 program registrations to the new system.
Of course we have some learning to do, so please be patient. As a result, our 2024 programming will be released a little later than usual. We are excited to provide you with a better online experience and we appreciate your patience as we work through all this.
The campground at Caesar Ford Park is tentatively scheduled to open in spring of 2024 following the completion of Phase 1. Bookings have not been opened yet, but will be announced on this page and social media.
Phase 1 includes 12 full hookup camping sites, picnic shelter, and shower house
Phase 2 will include several primitive camping sites
Permit holders are responsible for clean-up including, but not limited to: disposal of trash into trash receptacles, removal of decorations caused by rental activities.
Excessive trash left in a shelter after a reservation is prohibited. We suggest you bring a broom and extra trash bags. Please be sure to place ALL trash in trash receptacles, tie up trash bags if overflowing to keep trash from blowing around the park, and leave shelter clean upon your departure or a fine will be imposed.
The use of tape, nails, screws, or staples are not permitted on light poles, walls or the pavilion structure.
Any and all arts and crafts done will REQUIRE table coverings. Permit holder will be required to pay for all damages, losses, and costs associated with excessive clean up and repairs.
Permit applicants should be aware that the shelter is located within a public park. Shelter rental does not guarantee the restricted use of green space, parking lot, portable toilet, or any other amenity at the park.
No vehicles are permitted on the grass or sidewalks.
Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all parks.
Inflatables will be permitted on a case-by-case basis. Please call the main office for approval.
No refunds for cancellations within 30 days of event; a processing fee of ten $10.00 dollars will be retained if cancelled before 30 days. Weather is not considered a valid reason for cancellations.
Delicious recipes cooked over an open flame in a park environment? Where can you cook a 3-course meal for two for $25 with a trained chef in a fun park setting? Well, Caesar Ford Park of course!
Thanks for all of your support through our 2021 cooking series. You helped make our 4-part series so popular that we decided to offer a 5th in September! It was wonderful to spend 5 fun-filled evenings with you at Caesar Ford Park learning new recipes, dusting off cooking skills, sharing delicious food, and making new friends!
Ranger Fouts (AKA Chef Tim) along with his sous-chefs Darrell and Jason, enjoyed having the opportunity to serve you in a whole new way while showing off some of their culinary talents. The theme nights were a big hit and we’re already thinking about what to include in 2022! For those of you not able to attend, here were our theme nights this year.
We'd love to hear from you...if you attended and have feedback about the events or even if you would like to help us kick-start our programming ideas/themes for next year. Check out our survey below!
Reprinted with permission from The Daily Gazette (Xenia, OH), November 13, 2020
WESTERVILLE — Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA) recently named Greene County Parks & Trails (GCP&T) the winner of two first place awards.
As part of the association’s 2020 Annual Awards of Excellence, GCP&T won first place in the Law Enforcement Programs & Events category for its Trail Sentinel Program with the Ranger Division.
The Trail Sentinel Program was established more than 15 years ago to serve the community on the county’s bike path trails.
Eighteen volunteers receive ongoing training from rangers, including in the areas of CPR, bike safety and maintenance, and crime prevention. The group focuses on the patrons and the trail users’ experience. They are the direct line of public contact as they patrol the trails, streamlining communications from the community to the correct correspondent, according to an OPRA release.
Trail sentinels act as ambassadors for GCP&T, as well as host several rides throughout the year.
The local parks division also won a first place award in the Capital Improvement Project (up to $1 million) category for the restoration of Pearl’s Fen located off Byron Road in Fairborn.
Pearl’s Fen was originally recognized in the 1980s for its uniqueness as a mound fen. At the time, it was only known to local botanists. The fen was purchased by the Nature Conservancy in early 2000. With the help of a Clean Ohio Grant, GCP&T gained ownership of the fen.
Work on the project started with the partnership with the Beaver Creek Wetlands Association, and co-director Dave Nolin. Not only did this protect the head waters of the Beaver Creek, it also gained region-wide focus with the Source Water Protection Program. The location is now available to the public with an access connector to the Oakes Quarry Park. There is also a unique “floating” boardwalk that goes right over the head waters.
“You and your family can visit this park all year long and always have something to discover!” parks officials said.
Full bloom of native plants is peak in late August to mid-September, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts to the fen. Educators also make use of the fen, which is full of natural flora and wildlife.
The OPRA Annual Awards of Excellence will be presented at a banquet hosted by the association on April 28, 2021 at the Kalahari Convention Center in Sandusky. One first place award winner will be presented with the 2020 Governor’s Award for Parks and Recreation, a “best-in-show” award which includes a $500 contribution to the parks and recreation foundation of the agency winner.
“Parks and recreation professionals throughout Ohio work every day to improve the quality of life of the people they serve,” said OPRA Executive Director Woody Woodward. “This effort is a shining example of that kind of work, and we are pleased to be able to present this award.”
The awards are judged by a panel of parks and recreation professionals from around Ohio.
Charles E. Dressler (Ed) passed away at the age of 82 on January 9th, 2021. The funeral has been scheduled for February 6th, 2021 at Jackson Lytle Lewis Funeral Home, 322 West Xenia Avenue, Yellow Springs, OH from 11am – 1pm. With COVID-19 guidelines and recommendations in mind, the service will be private due to limited seating.
Following the celebration of life, the procession line, led by the Greene County Parks & Trails Ranger division, will be utilizing the Little Miami Scenic Trail portion of the bike way in between Yellow Springs and Xenia, ending at his final resting place at Woodland Cemetery in Xenia, Ohio. The bike trail will not be closed during this time, but we are asking any patrons to be mindful during this time and to please stop to the side. “Using the bike path just makes sense in honor of the father of the bike paths,” said Jon Dobney, GCPT Director.
All are welcome to be part of the procession to Woodland Cemetery-Xenia, traveling on the bike trails Ed created. The procession will be getting on the trails at Grinnell Road and will be getting off at Old Springfield Pike, led by the Greene County Park Rangers. The service will be livestreamed on the Jackson Lytle and Lewis Life Celebration Center Facebook page, starting promptly at 1:00 pm. Guests who still want to be part of the procession may watch the service from your vehicles. (There is public wifi available in Yellow Springs that you may connect to in order to stream the service without data). We will be preparing to begin the procession around 2:20 pm. A walk-through visitation will be open to all beginning at 11:00 am, but please understand we will be limiting the amount of guests in the building at one time. Please follow proper social distancing guidelines and facial coverings are mandatory. Thank you for your cooperation.
A proposal to dedicate a portion of the Greene County bike path in Ed’s memory is in consideration.
Join the GCP&T Trail Sentinels for a moonlight ride along the region’s bike trails. GCP&T Trail Sentinels are an elite volunteer group who patrol the trails and coordinate several cycling events. All night riders must be 18 and older, wear a helmet and have lights on their bikes. Rides will be cancelled in the event of a thunderstorm. Incentives will be offered to those participants who complete 132 or 265 available miles.
During the COVID-19 situation, we ask all riders to space apart at least 6-10 feet, wear masks, and avoid physical contact.
Registration requested, walk-ins welcome. For more information, call 937-562-6440.
