5 Late-Summer Events Ohio Nature Enthusiasts Will Love

Summer may be coming to a close, but Ohio’s national, state and metroparks boast full calendars of nature-focused activities for outdoor lovers everywhere. Take a three-hour kayaking expedition along the Maumee River with Toledo Metroparks, or bring your little ones to search for birds in our state’s southwest region.

Composition and Editing to Convey the Full Experience | Aug. 19
Meet fine art photographer Rob Blair at Peninsula’s Hines Hill Conference Center as he breaks down his best tips for nature and landscape photography. With 14 years of experience in the field, Blair will explain composition, editing and workflow techniques Cuyahoga Valley National Park visitors can use on their next hike or stroll. The creative event is free to attend and put on by The Cuyahoga Valley Photographic Society. forcvnp.org

Bark Bash | Aug. 22
Bring your furry friend to the Darby Bend Lakes Area of Hilliard’s Prairie Oaks Metro Park for this third annual event dedicated to pups. Owners and their four-legged companions can stand-up paddle and kayak, walk through a canine-focused marketplace and explore an off-leash beach area. Visitors are also welcome to tie-dye or paint a bandana and watch stage performances from the Franklin County Sheriff’s K-9 units and Performance Dogs of Ohio. metroparks.net

Creeking Expedition | Aug. 22
Nature lovers should meet at Scioto Trail State Park’s log church for this event centered on crawdads, snakes and salamanders. This 30-minute gathering occurs frequently at the Chillicothe destination, so there are plenty of opportunities to join an expedition in the fall. Participants should make sure to wear water-appropriate shoes; all other supplies will be provided. ohiodnr.gov

Maumee River Mural Kayak Eco Tour | Aug. 30
Spend three hours on a guided kayak adventure from Metroparks Toledo, which kicks off at the International Cove Boat Launch in the Glass City. Paddlers can take in the sights of the iconic River Wall designed by artist Gabe Gault, as well as several landmarks highlighting history and the waterfront. Come prepared with a change of clothes and a towel. Boats, life jackets and other gear are included in the ticket cost. metroparkstoledo.com

Woodpecker Watch | Sept. 5
Part of Five Rivers Metroparks Conservation Kids series, this morning event for children 3 to 13 provides an opportunity to learn about Montgomery County’s ecology. Registration is required; little ones and their parents can meet at Vandalia’s Taylorsville MetroPark to take a hike in search of these insect-eaters. Participants will also watch woodpeckers forage on trees. metroparks.org

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