It’s so important to get your kids outside to play. And what better way to do that than by letting them stomp, romp and splash around in a local creek? Creek stomping is a fun activity for kids, allowing them to get down n’ dirty, while also facilitating a connection with nature. Cincinnati has lots of picturesque, kid-friendly places to creek stomp, splash and play!
Here’s where to creek stomp in Cincinnati:
Avon Woods Preserve
Cincinnati, OH
The Avon Woods Preserve is a city park in Cincinnati’s North Avondale neighborhood. The park has nature trails, gardens, a nature center and stream that’s perfect for creek stomping.
Cincinnati Nature Center PlayScape
Milford, OH
The CNC PlayScape features a special water area that’s the perfect size for little creek stompers! Please note: as of 5/23/2020, Cincinnati Nature Center was only open for members.
California Woods Nature Preserve
Cincinnati, OH
This Cincinnati Park features 53 species of trees, more than 200 species of herbaceous plants, and Lick Run Creek. This creek run through this preserve, and is home to kingfishers, snapping turtles, small fish, myriad invertebrates and the occasional visit from grebes, mallards, wood ducks and beavers. Read all about this hidden gem here.
Dulle Park/Pioneer Park (pictured)
Montgomery, OH
We included both Dulle and Pioneer, as Sycamore Creek connects both Montgomery Parks (and they are located across the street from one another). Pioneer Park boasts a fishable pond (permit required for fishers over 16), but younger kids might prefer creek stomping at Dulle, which is a little more manageable.
French Park
Amberley, OH
French Park is the perfect place to spend a spring day with your kids; and, at 275-acres, it’s a fantastic
place to let your kids run free while practicing safe social distancing. Read all about French Park here.
Gower Park
Sharonville, OH
Bring your rain boots when you go to this hidden gem – there’s a creek located just beyond the playground, and it’s the perfect size for (supervised) kids.
Long Branch Farm
Goshen, OH
This Cincinnati Nature Facility is only open for creek stompin’ at certain times, so be sure to check the calendar for open stompin’ times. As of 5/23/2020, Cincinnati Nature Center was only open for members.
Mt. Airy Forest
Mt. Airy, OH
Cincinnati’s largest urban park at 1,459 acres, Mt. Airy forest features miles of hiking trails and bridle trails, plus lots of areas with shallow, stompable water.
Sharon Woods
Sharonville, OH
With the Sharon Creek running throughout this Great Park, there are lots of shallow spots for creek stomping. Kids will especially love admiring the waterfalls (please use caution around waterfalls — there
are signs prohibiting hikers from hiking in certain areas — like along the overhang).
Summit Park
Blue Ash, OH
Summit Park’s Nature Playscape has next-level creek stomping, featuring several connected ponds and pools with rapids, rocks and interactive elements. Please note: the PlayScape is currently closed.
Triple Creek Park
Colerain Township, OH
True to its name, Triple Creek is prime creek stompin’ territory. In addition to great stomping grounds (pun intended!), Triple Creek also has open-to-the-public fishing.
What should you bring creek stomping? We recommend rain boots/water shoes, a change of clothes, sunscreen/hat and a healthy sense of adventure and awe.