Buck Creek State Park

10/15/2026

Looking for a getaway that feels like a vacation and you do not have to prepare for? Come stay at Buck Creek Cabins!

Our cabins are cozy, the views are gorgeous, and the cabins come fully equipped.
Unplug, unwind, and pretend you’re “outdoorsy” without having to sleep on the ground. Book your stay at Buck Creek Cabins—where the only thing roughing it is the lack of Wi‑Fi (and honestly, that’s part of the charm).

Your adventure—and your porch-sitting championship title—awaits! 🌲🔥😄

10/03/2026

♻️ Help Us Turn Stretchy Plastic Into Something Awesome! 🌳
Our park is partnering with NexTrex to recycle “stretchy plastics” — things like grocery bags, bubble wrap, and plastic film. Instead of tossing them out, drop them off at our collection bins, located at the Office, Marina, and Campstore, and help us turn this material into durable benches and playground equipment for the community!
What to bring:
• Grocery bags
• Bread bags
• Product overwrap
• Bubble wrap
• Case wrap
• Any clean, dry, stretchy plastic

Every bag counts, and together we can make a big impact right here in the park. Thank you for helping keep Springfield green and beautiful! 💚

10/03/2026

🎯 Intro to Archery – Sunday October 4, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Ever wanted to give archery a try? Now’s your chance!
Join us for a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to archery. This program is completely free, and all equipment is provided. Our naturalist staff will guide you through the basics so you can safely learn and enjoy this classic outdoor skill.
📍 Date: October 4
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
💲 Cost: Free
🎯 Equipment: Provided
Come out, take aim, and enjoy a great hour in the outdoors! Let us know if you’re planning to attend!

10/03/2026

🚤 Buck Creek Dock Lottery is NOW OPEN! 🎉
It’s that time of year! The Buck Creek dock lottery is officially open online, making it easier than ever to get your entry in. If you’re hoping to secure a dock spot for the upcoming season, be sure to submit your application while the window is open.

Don’t wait—get your name in the mix and enjoy another great season on the water at Buck Creek! 🌊

👉 Enter online now:

Buck Creek State Park dock lottery is open October 1 through October 31.

10/03/2026

🍁 Fall Naturalist Programs Are Here! 🍂
As the leaves begin to change, we’re excited to offer a new season of guided hikes, wildlife programs, and hands-on nature experiences for all ages. From crisp morning walks to cozy campfire evenings, there’s something for everyone who loves exploring the outdoors.
🌿 Highlights this fall:
• Guided fall foliage hikes
• Local wildlife discovery programs
• Family-friendly outdoor activities
• Seasonal nature crafts and education
Bring your curiosity, your love for the outdoors, and maybe a warm jacket—and join us in celebrating the beauty of the season!
📅 See below for dates, locations, and registration details!
We can’t wait to see you out on the trails.

09/17/2026

Looking for something fun to do this week? 🌿✨ Check out our upcoming nature programs!

• Thurs, Sept 17
🏹 Archery 101 (6–7pm) – Learn the basics of archery and try target practice. Meet at the archery range.
🌅 Sunset Hike (7:30–8:30pm) – Enjoy a guided sunset hike and evening wildlife. Meet at Dock B in the marina.

• Fri, Sept 18
🔬 Insects Up Close (2–3pm) – Explore insect anatomy and fall adaptations. Meet at the Park Office.
🐞 Build a Bug House (6–7:30pm) – Create a habitat for pollinators using natural materials. Meet at the Park Office.

• Sat, Sept 19
🍈 Pawpaw Program (11am–12pm) – Discover America’s native fruit and its ecology. Meet at the Nature Center.
📚 Nature Book Club (2–3pm) – Discuss Nature’s Best Hope. Meet at Northridge Branch Library, 4925 Middle Urbana Rd.

• Sun, Sept 20
🎣 Fishing 101 (10–11am) – Learn beginner fishing skills and water safety. Meet at the Nature Center.
🎨 Painted Pages (2–3:30pm) – Practice nature journaling with watercolors. Meet at the Park Office.

09/17/2026

Before we mow down our native prairie to stimulate new growth and conduct GPR and magnetometry research on the land, we need your help collecting seeds first!



Saturday, October 3rd, 10am–12pm, join us for a native prairie seed collection event. Every seed you gather will be saved, spread, and given a chance to take root, helping us restore and strengthen this prairie for next year and for generations to come.



This is hands-on conservation at its most direct: no experience needed, just a willingness to get outside and get your hands in the grass. We'll show you which plants to look for, how to collect seeds responsibly, and why this small act makes a big difference for native habitat.



📍 Great Council State Park

🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

🌱 Free and family-friendly



Come be part of the prairie's next chapter!

09/04/2026

Heading out on the water this Labor Day weekend? Make safety your first stop! Please follow all boating safety guidelines — and remember, wear a life jacket anytime you’re on or around the water. Let’s keep the holiday fun and safe for everyone!

More info: ohiodnr.gov/boating

Ohio Department of Natural Resources
National Safe Boating Council
Safe Boating Campaign
ODNR Parks & Watercraft Cleveland Marine Office

08/21/2026

🌧️ Park Update: Buck Creek Operations 🌧️

​Despite the recent heavy rains, we want to let everyone know that Buck Creek is open and operating normally!

​All facilities, campgrounds, and amenities remain fully open with no closures or weather-related impacts, other than slightly higher lake water levels.

​If you're heading out to enjoy the water or spend the weekend with us, just be mindful of the higher water levels along the shorelines. We look forward to seeing you at the park! 🌲🚣‍♂️✨

07/03/2026