When to Go
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open for adventures year-round, but peak season is April through October—make an early start if visiting at this time, as parking spaces fill up quickly. For the best views, come in late spring, when wildflowers are in full bloom, or in mid-October, when fall foliage is at its most vibrant. Winter snowfall means you’ll need to swap your hiking boots for snowshoes, but many trails stay open year-round.
Know Before You Go
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park is 20 miles south of Cleveland, about a 25-minute drive away, and just a 15-minute drive from Akron.
- There is no admission fee to visit the national park, and free parking is available at Boston Mill Visitor Center, Brandywine Falls, and Ledges Trailhead.
- Facilities include a visitor center, picnic and day-use areas, restrooms, and two snack bars. You can bring your own registered watercraft, but you must follow Ohio state laws.
- Backcountry camping and overnight parking are prohibited.
- There are ADA-accessible restrooms, picnic areas, and parking spaces at Cuyahoga Valley. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is also accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Ohio’s only national park is a paradise for leaf-peepers, bird-watchers, and outdoor adventurers.
The Cuyahoga River snakes its way through the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, fringed with forest trails, waterfalls, and pebbly coves. Take a ride on the century-old Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad; hike, bike, or horseback ride along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail; or try seasonal activities such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Fishing and bird-watching spots abound along the river, and you can also bring your own kayak or canoe. Camping is not allowed within the park, but private campsites and state park campgrounds sit within a short drive.
The Cuyahoga River snakes its way through the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, fringed with forest trails, waterfalls, and pebbly coves. Take a ride on the century-old Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad; hike, bike, or horseback ride along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail; or try seasonal activities such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Fishing and bird-watching spots abound along the river, and you can also bring your own kayak or canoe. Camping is not allowed within the park, but private campsites and state park campgrounds sit within a short drive.
When to Go
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open for adventures year-round, but peak season is April through October—make an early start if visiting at this time, as parking spaces fill up quickly. For the best views, come in late spring, when wildflowers are in full bloom, or in mid-October, when fall foliage is at its most vibrant. Winter snowfall means you’ll need to swap your
Read more...When to Go
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open for adventures year-round, but peak season is April through October—make an early start if visiting at this time, as parking spaces fill up quickly. For the best views, come in late spring, when wildflowers are in full bloom, or in mid-October, when fall foliage is at its most vibrant. Winter snowfall means you’ll need to swap your hiking boots for snowshoes, but many trails stay open year-round.
Know Before You Go
Frequently asked questions
Is camping allowed in Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
Camping is not allowed within the boundaries of Cuyahoga Valley National Park itself. However, there are several nearby campgrounds and parks where you can camp and still enjoy the beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley area. Some of the options include:
These campgrounds offer a variety of amenities and facilities, making them a great base for exploring the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and its surrounding areas.
How many days do you need in Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
It depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend exploring the park. For a comprehensive experience, we recommend spending 2-3 days in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This will give you enough time to enjoy the park's main attractions, such as hiking the trails, visiting the waterfalls (including Brandywine Falls), exploring the Ledges Trail, taking a scenic train ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, and visiting the Canal Exploration Center. Additionally, you can explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, as well as enjoy activities like biking, birdwatching, and stargazing. If you have limited time, a one-day visit will still allow you to see some of the park's highlights, but a longer stay will provide a more immersive experience.
Is there an entry fee to Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park. However, some activities and special events within the park may have their own fees or require reservations. Enjoy exploring the park!
Public campgrounds (book externally) —