Friends of Old Woman Creek

06/12/2026

😍😍😍

🥾Trail Tuesday—Freshwater Estuary

🌳Where does the land meet the sea – or in our case, the lake? Old Woman Creek State Nature Preserve is also a national estuarine research reserve where the waters of Old Woman Creek meet Lake Erie’s in Erie County.

🐟This special place protects a freshwater estuary that supports a rich diversity of wildlife, including several fish and birds that rely on the area for breeding, feeding and shelter. 🌸It also features one of our prettiest native aquatic plants – the American water lotus.

🐦Explore its scenic trails, boardwalks and overlook decks which offer up close views of the estuary and its wildlife. The Visitor Center, managed by Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve, serves as a focal point for ecological research. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦The preserve/reserve offers a variety of public programming, perfect for visitors of all ages.

🛶Interested in seeing Old Woman Creek by canoe or kayak? 🚣🏿‍♀️Visitors can request paddling access by visiting the Visitor Center in person or by applying online. 🤓Learn more about Old Woman Creek at ohiodnr.gov

05/30/2026

Catch of the Day 🐍

05/23/2026

An awesome learning experience at Old Woman Creek!!

05/22/2026

As paddling season ramps up, our research department wants to remind everyone that we have research equipment throughout the estuary, including these new that were recently deployed. Old Woman Creek is a Research Reserve, and any paddling requires a permit. Stop into the Visitor Center during our business hours or go online to get your permit in advance. You can also join us for our guided paddle trips throughout the summer!

https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/nature-preserves/access-permits

Ohio Department of Natural Resources | Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves | NOAA Digital Coast

05/22/2026

Lost something on your visit? We might have it! 👀

Our Lost & Found is filling up with items left behind: hats, glasses, lens covers, gloves, and more! If you've been missing something (or have just had a chilly head lately 😉), it might be waiting for you.

Stop by the Visitor Center Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM to take a look and claim your item.

05/20/2026

🌿 Volunteer Thursdays at Old Woman Creek! 🌿
Looking for a simple way to give back and enjoy the outdoors? Join us Thursday mornings for landscaping and trail clean-up at Old Woman Creek!

🗓 Now through July 30
⏰ 10:00–11:30 AM
📍 Meet at the Nature Center

Volunteers will help with:
🌱 Removing invasive plants from rain & pollinator gardens
🌸 Weeding Peggy’s Garden
🌳 Light trail trimming
✅ No experience needed
✅ All tools and training provided

Come on by, make a difference, and spend time in a beautiful place, we’d love to see you there!

This great photo earned Honorable Mention in the 2024 Friends of Old Woman Creek Photography Contest and was submitted by Angela Schindler

05/20/2026

The Huron buoy located offshore of Old Woman Creek Beach is active and collecting data on water quality, wind, water temps, air temps, and wave action. Bookmark this fantastic resource for all your water activities this summer!

https://data.freeboard.tech/station/45203/

Ohio Department of Natural Resources | Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves | Cleveland Water Alliance | NOAA Digital Coast

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05/18/2026