Preservation Parks of Delaware County

Big Run Preserve

Spined Micrathena

Look for these oddly-shaped spiders with a large rear and spiny black projections as you walk through the woods this time of year. .

They build their large orb webs, with a tight spiral, "face high" across walking paths.

The spiders are harmless to humans and you could practice your limbo skills as you try to avoid destroying their webs.

183 acres

Big Run Preserve is named for the headwater habitat stream – a tributary to the Olentangy State Scenic River – that runs through the park and supports important plant and animal species.

The Big Run stream winds along a twisting corridor consisting of 20-40 feet tall shale cliffs and a shale streambed. You can see many concretions (round rock formations), and remnants of concretions, in the cliffs and along the streambed.

There are also intermittent waterfalls in this park, which is located in a rapidly developing area of Liberty and Orange townships.

Visitors will see a mature white oak forest in the eastern half of the park, along with large stands of hickory and maple. Spring wildflowers include the large white trillium, blue cohosh, and yellow-trout lily.

Wildlife you might encounter include: a large assortment of birds, such as barred owls and pileated woodpeckers; migrating neo-tropical songbirds, such as the hooded warbler and Acadian flycatcher; whitetail deer, raccoons and coyotes; and amphibians, such as the two-lined salamander.

Within the park, 123 acres were acquired over several years, through a combination of park levy funds, grants and a loan from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.

The remaining 60 acres, acquired in 2004 with a grant from the Ohio EPA, will be accessible primarily for educational purposes due to the fragile ecosystem in this section of the park.

Future Plans

Hiking trails
Picnic shelter
Multi-use facility
Restored prairie

Preservation Parks of Delaware County | 2656 Hogback Road | Sunbury, Ohio 43074 | 740-524-8600 | Fax: 740-524-8200