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Trails & Bikeways#OptOutside Scavenger Hunt: Nov. 26-Dec. 31
Beginning Friday, November 26 (#OptOutsideDay), Gahanna Parks & Rec will launch an exciting outdoor adventure that participants can do at their own pace! The Winter holiday-themed scavenger hunt leads adventurers through four of Gahanna’s parks: Academy, Sunpoint, Gahanna Woods, and Pizzurro. Participants should look for signs with alphabet letters on them, then unscramble the letters found at each park to decipher that park’s hidden word. (See form below or DOWNLOAD HERE.) Use the letters in the boxes to find the final hidden word. Once you find it, email us a picture of your form to parksandrec@gahanna.gov to find out if you’ve won a Gahanna Parks & Recreation Prize Bag (available while supplies last). GRAND PRIZE: A Flash 22 Hiking Backpack, donated by REI Easton! (Note: completed hidden word forms can also be dropped of at City Hall: 200 High St. Gahanna, OH.)
GAHANNA PARKS SCAVENGER HUNT
Instructions
- There are alphabet letter signs placed throughout these parks: Academy, Sunpoint, Gahanna Woods, and Pizzurro. Take a walk on the trails and
pathways in each park to search for them. - The letter signs will be out in the parks from Nov 26-Dec 31.
- Find all the letters in one park, and then unscramble the letters to figure out what the hidden word is for that park. (Use graphic right or download THIS FORM.)
- If you find the hidden words for all the parks, you can use the letters inside the boxes to unscramble the final hidden word puzzle.
- If you complete the final hidden word puzzle, you can turn this form in to receive a Gahanna Parks & Rec Prize Bag (while supplies last)! Once completed, email a picture of the clues to parksandrec@gahanna.gov to find out if you’ve won and for collection details!
Gahanna Parks & Rec Fall Programs are HERE!
Fall is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy your Gahanna parks. Download our new Parks & Rec Fall Program Guide and register for some amazing programs and special events HERE!
Winter Break Fun & Learning with Gahanna Parks & Rec
This December, we’re offering a number of opportunities for you to keep your mind and body active and grow your skills during winter break, including:
Rec Club
Join our Rec Team for part-day enrichment experiences. You’ll enjoy some of our favorite activities like arts & crafts, games, nature exploration (weather permitting) and more. Rec Club is a drop-off activity; caregiver is not required to stay on-site during the program.
- Drop & Shop – Saturday, December 18, 10 am – 1 pm, Gahanna Senior Center
- Winter Fun – Wednesday, December 22, 9 am – 12 pm, Golf Course Clubhouse
- Mystery Field Trip – Wednesday, December 29, 12 – 3 pm, Meet at Clubhouse – field trip TBD
Rec Crates
A complete program in a box! Our take-home crates feature a variety of fun activities including arts & crafts, games and outdoor education. All materials (besides some common household items) are included, along with detailed instructions. Choose from our Winter Break Crate ($10 residents; $12 non-residents) full of winter-themed activities or a Mystery Crate ($5) filled with a selection of fun activities from our past crates.
American Red Cross Classes
Develop important life skills in a class from American Red Cross. Choose from an online Babysitting Basics course ($45 residents; $50 non-residents) where you’ll learn safety and sensible decision-making skills parents need for you to have in your babysitting job and/or participate in an in-person First Aid/CPR/AED Training ($95 residents; $120 non-residents) on December 28, where you’ll learn to recognize and respond appropriately to cardiac, breathing and first aid emergencies.
Fitness with Shellie 
Monthly fitness series takes place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays. Workouts consist of joint mobilization, full body warm up, strength development and a relative-intensity based workout. Register NOW!
Fit Kids (virtual)
Each session for ages 4 – 5 years (4:30 – 5 pm) runs weekly for one month. $29 residents; $34.80 non-residents.
Bally Sports Basketball Series
Sundays, November 7 – December 19 (No class November 28)
Location: Goshen Lane Elementary School
Mini Ballers (Ages 4-5 years / 1-2 pm)
Bally Sports provides children with a fun and educational first basketball experience. Players are taught the fundamentals of dribbling, shooting, passing, rebounding, defense and the concept of game play.
Skills & Drills Basketball (Ages 6-8 years / 2-3 pm)
Participants will be put through various dribbling, shooting, and situational drills and compete against each other in various low-competition contests. At the conclusion of the program, each player will be given an individual review on skills they can work on for future development. This program is intended for players with experience.
Amazing Athletes
Amazing Athletes is a developmental physical program. Teaching methods are based on age, with tot classes focused on discovery-based
learning helping children engage in structured physical activities. Older classes encourage the exploration and development of a variety of athletic skills through the introduction of 10 different sports. Coaches break the fundamentals of each sport down into simple steps based on each child’s age and ability. Their goal is to create fun environments that establish a lifetime connection to sports and physical activity. The month-long series start on the first Thursday of the month at the Gahanna Golf Course Clubhouse. $78 residents; $90 non-residents.
Amazing Tots
A guided, discovery-based program for toddlers. Programs include physical activities, learning and fun. / Ages 1.5 – 2.5 years, 6 – 6:30 pm
Amazing Athletes
In this developmental physical fitness program, kids are encouraged to explore and develop a variety of athletic skills through the introduction of 10 different sports. Ages 2.5 – 4 years, 6– 6:30 pm / Ages 5 – 6 years, 6:30 – 7:15 pm
Gahanna Mobile Activities Center
Did you know that Gahanna Parks & Recreation has a self-contained party trailer available to rent for your next neighborhood block party or community event? The GMAC (Gahanna Mobile Activities Center) provides the opportunity to celebrate the Gahanna community with friends and neighbors. The GMAC contains all you need to share an afternoon of laughs and fun with neighbors, create life long memories with an outdoor movie under the stars, a backyard cookout, games and music!
What’s inside?
- 4 (6′) Tables
- Sound System
- Snow Cone Machine
- Popcorn Machine
- DVD Player
- Projector & 120″ Movie Screen
- Inflatable Gaga Pit
- Yard Games
- Play Equipment
- Coolers
- 2 (10′ x 10′) Pop Up Tents
- Extension Cords & MORE!
The GMAC is made possible through a partnership with the Gahanna Parks & Recreation Foundation, Gahanna Lincoln High School FAB Lab Class and Funtrail Vehicle Accessories. To learn more about renting the GMAC, visit: www.gahanna.gov/gmac
2021 Parks & Rec Scholarships
Gahanna Parks & Recreation offers a scholarship program. See link below to learn more or to apply.
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Gahanna Parks
There’s a park in Gahanna for you if you want to take a walk, fish, explore nature, escape the city-life, climb on a playground, play a sport, or just sit back and relax. Find your park here.
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Download our Parks & Trails Map
Our new Parks & Trails Guide will help you navigate our amazing natural resource areas. Download the digital version NOW!
The City of Gahanna is home to 750+ acres of beautiful parks and trails that provide an invaluable resource for physical and mental wellness, outdoor exploration, education and fun! Request a print copy HERE.
Scan & download the digital version:
Mission Statement: The Mission of the Department of Parks & Recreation is to provide parks, trails, and recreational opportunities to all people of Gahanna so they can be healthy and well while they explore and learn in our community.
Contact Information
Gahanna Parks & Recreation
200 S. Hamilton Rd.
614-342-4250
Hours: M-F, 8 am-5 pm
CREEKSIDE ARBORETUM
The City of Gahanna is proud to announce the Arboretum Accreditation at Level I for Creekside Arboretum, as recognized by the Morton Register of Arboreta. This recognition of professional standards and capabilities represents the advancement of goals specific to tree-focused public gardens, exemplifying standards of excellence in the arboretum community.
The Creekside Arboretum (located in Gahanna’s Creekside Park, 117 Mill St.) includes 40+ different species of trees, identified with placards noting specific characteristics such as height, seed and leaf information, and fun facts. Visitors are encouraged to wander the arboretum, learning more about the history, natural beauty and benefits of the trees. The Arboretum offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate nature, while teaching us how to become better stewards for our environment.
American Beech
Scientific: Fagus grandifolia
Mature Height: 50-70 feet
Mature Spread: 40 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: bronze
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: edible, hard, brown nut
Fun Fact: bark is light gray and resembles concrete
American Hophornbeam
Scientific Name: Ostrya virginiana agus
Mature Height: 30 feet
Mature Spread: 30 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: green, yellow, brown
Flower: male catkins
Fruit/Nut: hop-like that turn from green to brown Fun Fact: member of the birch family
American Sycamore
Scientific Name: Platanus occidentalis
Mature Height: 75-100 feet
Mature Spread: 80 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: alkaline, wet
Fall Color: bronze
Flower: small and red
Fruit/Nut: ball-like clusters
Fun Fact: bark is mottled gray, brown, and white
Bald Cypress
Scientific Name: Taxodium distichum
Mature Height: 50-70 feet
Mature Spread: 25 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: tolerant of most conditions
Fall Color: orange to brown
Flower: male catkins
Fruit/Nut: round, green cones
Fun Fact: only produces cypress knees in wet areas
Bitternut Hickory
Scientific Name: Carya cordiformis
Mature Height: 50-70 feet
Mature Spread: 40-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to full shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: four-part nut
Fun Fact: buds resemble a yellow candle flame
Black Cherry
Scientific Name: Prunus serotina
Mature Height: 50-60 feet
Mature Spread: 20-30 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow to orange
Flower: white drooping clusters
Fruit/Nut: dark, pea-sized cherries
Fun Fact: bark is rough and dark brown to gray
Black Locust
Scientific Name: Robinia pseudoacacia
Mature Height: 30-50 feet
Mature Spread: 20-35 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade Soil Type: moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow
Flower: white, hanging, showy clusters Fruit/Nut: flat, brown pods
Fun Fact: notorious for having brittle wood
Black Maple
Scientific Name: Acer saccharum subsp. nigrum
Mature Height: 60-75 feet
Mature Spread: 40-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to full shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow to orange
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: winged seeds in pairs
Fun Fact: leaves are drooped with hairy undersides
Black Walnut
Scientific Name: Juglans nigra
Mature Height: 50-75 feet
Mature Spread: 30-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: alkaline, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: round, green husk containing edible nut Fun Fact: produces juglone, a chemical that is toxic to many other plants
Blackgum
Scientific Name: Nyssa sylvatica
Mature Height: 30-50 feet
Mature Spread: 20-30 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: orange to red
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: small, dark fruit on female trees
Fun Fact: one of the first trees to turn color in fall
American Bladdernut
Scientific Name: Staphylea trifolia
Mature Height: 10-15 feet
Mature Spread: 10-15 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to full shade
Soil Type: alkaline, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow
Flower: white, bell-shaped in clusters
Fruit/Nut: inflated, papery seed capsule
Fun Fact: naturally grow near water so seed capsules will fall and float downstream
Boxelder
Scientific Name: Acer negundo
Mature Height: 30-50 feet
Mature Spread: 30-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: moist, wet, well-drained
Fall Color: light green to yellow
Flower: Insignificant
Fruit/Nut: winged pairs of seeds on female trees Fun Fact: can be tapped to make sugar
Bur Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus macrocarpa
Mature Height: 70-80 feet
Mature Spread: 70-80 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: alkaline, dry, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow to brown
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: large, 2 inch, heavily fringed acorns
Fun Fact: one of the most stately looking shade trees
Buttonbush
Scientific Name: Cephalanthus occidentalis
Mature Height: 6-12 feet
Mature Spread: 12-18 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: moist, wet, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow to brown
Flower: fragrant, white, ball-like clusters Fruit/Nut: hard, 1-inch spheres
Fun Fact: excellent native plant for pollinators
Cornelian Cherry Dogwood
Scientific Name: Cornus mas
Mature Height: 20-25 feet
Mature Spread: 15-20 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: alkaline, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: red to purple
Flower: small, yellow, clustered
Fruit/Nut: oval, bright red drupes
Fun Fact: native to Europe and Asia
Eastern Cottonwood
Scientific Name: Populus deltoides
Mature Height: 75-100 feet
Mature Spread: 50-75 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: moist, wet, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow to brown
Flower: Insignificant
Fruit/Nut: dangling cluster of capsules that release white fluff and seeds
extremely fast growing and weak wooded
Eastern Redbud
Scientific Name: Cercis canadensis
Mature Height: 20-30 feet
Mature Spread: 25-35 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: moist, well-drained
Fall Color: light green to yellow
Flower: small, pink to magenta clusters Fruit/Nut: 2-3 inch long pods
Fun Fact: cultivars available with white flowers
Gray Dogwood
Scientific Name: Cornus racemosa
Mature Height: 10-15 feet
Mature Spread: 10-15 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to full shade
Soil Type: dry or wet
Fall Color: red to purple
Flower: white, flat clusters
Fruit/Nut: white berries on red stalks
Fun Fact: good for mass plantings and shrub borders
Common Hackberry
Scientific Name: Celtis occidentalis
Mature Height: 40-60 feet
Mature Spread: 40-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: alkaline, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: pea-sized, purple to brown drupes
Fun Fact: host plant for many butterfly species
American Basswood
Scientific Name: Tilia americana Cultivar: Redmond
Mature Height: 60-80 feet
Mature Spread: 30-60 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: moist, well-drained
Fall Color: pale yellow
Flower: fragrant, yellow clusters
Fruit/Nut: small, round nutlets attached to bract
Fun Fact: ‘Redmond’ is a dense and pyramidal variety
Northern Red Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus rubra
Mature Height: 60-75 feet
Mature Spread: 60-75 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: red
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: barrel-shaped, 1-inch acorn with flat cap
Fun Fact: one of the fastest growing oaks
Northern Spicebush
Scientific Name: Lindera benzoin
Mature Height: 6-12 feet
Mature Spread: 6-12 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, wet, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow
Flower: bright yellow clusters
Fruit/Nut: bright red drupes on female plants
Fun Fact: great food and nectar source for wildlife
Ohio Buckeye
Scientific Name: Aesculus glabra
Mature Height: 20-40 feet
Mature Spread: 20-40 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow to orange
Flower: yellow-green, 12-inch clusters
Fruit/Nut: buckeye inside prickly husk
Fun Fact: state tree of Ohio
Osage-Orange
Scientific Name: Maclura pomifera
Mature Height: 20-40 feet
Mature Spread: 20-40 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: moist, well-drained
Fall Color: light green to yellow
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: yellow-green, 6-inch circular fruit
Fun Fact: commonly known as hedge apples
Pawpaw
Scientific Name: Asimina triloba
Mature Height: 15-20 feet
Mature Spread: 15-20 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: moist, wet, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow-green to yellow
Flower: purple, cup-shaped, nodding
Fruit/Nut: large, edible, yellow-green fruit
Fun Fact: pollinated by flies
Pin Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus palustris
Mature Height: 60-70 feet
Mature Spread: 40-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: acidic, wet
Fall Color: red
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: small, ½-inch acorn with flat cap
Fun Fact: low branches sweep down
Red Maple
Scientific Name: Acer rubrum
Cultivar: Red Sunset
Mature Height: 40-50 feet
Mature Spread: 25-30 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: red
Flower: red petaled clusters
Fruit/Nut: winged seeds in pairs
Fun Fact: ‘Red Sunset’ is a round-shaped variety
Sawtooth Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus acutissima
Mature Height: 40-60 feet
Mature Spread: 40-60 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow to brown
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: oval, 1-inch acorns with prickly caps
Fun Fact: introduced from Asia
Apple Serviceberry
Scientific Name: Amelanchier x grandiflora
Cultivar: Robin Hill
Mature Height: 20-25 feet
Mature Spread: 12-15 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic
Fall Color: red to yellow
Flower: white, 5-petaled
Fruit/Nut: edible, change from red to blue
Fun Fact: ‘Robin Hill’ is an upright, rounded variety
Shagbark Hickory
Scientific Names: Carya ovata
Mature Height: 60-80 feet
Mature Spread: 30-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: moist, well-drained
Fall Color: golden brown
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: edible nut with 4-part husk
Fun Fact: the shaggy bark is habitat for roosting bats
Shellbark Hickory
Scientific Name: Carya laciniosa
Mature Height: 75-100 feet
Mature Spread: 50-75 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: wet
Fall Color: golden brown
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: edible nut with 5-6-part husk
Fun Fact: similar looking to shagbark hickories but naturally found in wetter conditions
Sugar Maple
Scientific Name: Acer saccharum
Mature Height: 60-75 feet
Mature Spread: 40-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to full shade
Soil Type: moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow, orange, and red
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: winged seeds in pairs
Fun Fact: used to make maple syrup
Swamp White Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus bicolor
Mature Height: 50-60 feet
Mature Spread: 50-60 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: gold to brown
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: 1-inch acorn half enclosed in a bumpy cap
Fun Fact: leaves are green on top and silver below
Sweetgum
Scientific Name: Liquidambar styraciflua
Mature Height: 60-75 feet
Mature Spread: 40-75 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun
Soil Type: acidic, moist, wet, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow, red, and purple
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: green or brown, spiny spheres
Fun Fact: trees often show more than one fall color
Tuliptree
Scientific Name: Liriodendron tulipifera
Mature Height: 70-90 feet
Mature Spread: 35-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: golden yellow
Flower: yellow-green, 2-inch, tulip-like blooms
Fruit/Nut: cone-shaped, 2-inch seed clusters
Fun Fact: seeds persist through winter and stand upright on branches
Weeping Willow
Scientific Name: Salix babylonica
Mature Height: 30-40 feet
Mature Spread: 35 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: moist, wet
Fall Color: light green to yellow
Flower: yellow on catkins
Fruit/Nut: brown, 1/4 -inch fruit
Fun Fact: branch cuttings can sprout into new trees
White Mulberry
Scientific Name: Morus alba
Mature Height: 30-50 feet
Mature Spread: 30-50 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: edible berry ranging from white to purple
Fun Fact: native to China
American Witchhazel
Scientific Name: Hamamelis virginiana
Mature Height: 15-25 feet
Mature Spread: 15-20 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to full shade
Soil Type: moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow
Flower: stringy, 1-inch, yellow blooms
Fruit/Nut: green-brown seed capsules
Fun Fact: flowers bloom from October to December
Yellow Buckeye
Scientific Name: Aesculus flava
Mature Height: 60-80 feet
Mature Spread: 25-35 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow to orange
Flower: upright clusters of yellow blooms
Fruit/Nut: buckeyes in a smooth husk
Fun Fact: buckeyes are poisonous to humans
Common Winterberry
Scientific Name: Ilex verticillata
Mature Height: 6-10 feet
Mature Spread: 6-10 feet
Sun Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: acidic, moist, wet, well-drained
Fall Color: yellow-green
Flower: insignificant
Fruit/Nut: bright red drupes that last through winter
Fun Fact: both male and female plants are needed to produce fruit
Welcome to the Senior Center, home of our Active Senior Programs!
(Note: Gahanna Senior Center is currently closed due to COVID-19 mandates.)
We are proud to offer a variety of online/virtual and drive-thru programs and activities to meet the growing needs and interests of our community. Get started with your membership today and begin participating any of our programs right away! We look forward to getting to know you.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Gahanna Senior Center
480 Rocky Fork Blvd.
Active Senior Program Operating Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
614-342-4265
Learn more about the Senior Center
Sign up to receive our weekly e-Newsletter by emailing Annette Rundio: Annette.rundio@gahanna.gov
Gahanna Swimming Pools
For a list of pool hours, membership information, scholarship applications and policies, visit THIS PAGE of our website.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Gahanna Parks & Recreation
200 S. Hamilton Rd.
614-342-4250
Hunters Ridge Pool
341 Harrow Blvd.
614-342-4269
Gahanna Swimming Pool
148 Parkland Ave.
614-342-4272
Learn More About Gahanna Aquatics
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Water Safety Tips at Home: Staying Safe This Summer When Enjoying Lakes, Creeks, Backyard Pools/Water Features and Visits to the Beach
Do you know that drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death among children between 1-4 years old? And it’s the third leading cause of death among all children. Whether your kids will be swimming in a backyard pool, wading in a creek or headed to the beach––check this Water Safety Checklist to make sure you’re prepared to prevent drownings. The checklist is provided by Stop Drowning Now a national 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to save lives through water safety education.
Arts & Education!
Increase your knowledge and learn a new skill by participating in programs that focus on arts and education. Programs span a variety of interests and ages, from in-house Parks and Recreation programs to those run by third party organizations
CONTACT INFORMATION
Gahanna Parks & Recreation
200 S. Hamilton Rd.
614-342-4250
Hours: M-F, 8 am-5 pm
Summer Camps in Gahanna
Campers will be assigned to groups of approximately 6-10 children, in accordance with the American Camp Association recommended ratios. Camp staff will continue to enforce mask use for campers and staff during times that distancing is not possible. These times may include stationary activities where individuals must be in close proximity, when traveling in vehicles, or when groups of campers & staff must be gathered together in close quarters (in case of emergency).
When campers are outside and involved in vigorous activity or can maintain 6 feet apart, then face coverings will not be required.
Additionally, the following prevention measures will remain in place:
- Camp participants will complete a wellness questionnaire upon arrival to the program.
- Temperature checks will not be performed by staff upon arrival.
- Participants experiencing possible COVID-19 symptoms (as defined in our contagious disease policy) at drop-off, or during the course of the camp day, may be removed from the camp program.
- Symptomatic campers may return to the program if Franklin County Public Health requirements for doing so have been met.
- The City of Gahanna will request that all participant families monitor their overall health, continue good hygiene habits and stay home if they do not feel well.
- Adults dropping off or picking up participants from the program are encouraged to wear masks, unless vaccinated.
- Enhanced cleaning/sanitation of program areas and equipment will be performed.
- Participants and staff will follow hand washing procedures as outlined in the Participant Handbook and Staff Manual.
- Field trips, outside of weekly pool visits, will not take place.
- Contact Informaiton: 614-342-4250 (Mon-Fri 8 am-5 pm)
Details Unique to Gahanna: 2021 Operations
Group Sizes & Structure:
Camper group capacity (usually known as “color groups”) will be reduced from typical years. Groups will remain in separate program areas, throughout the camp day (shelter, playground, fields, courts, etc.). Whenever possible, campers will be grouped with others of similar age. Exceptions may be made in an effort to keep children from the same household within the same camper group.
Waitlists:
With reduced capacities in our programs this year, it is anticipated that we will fill all available spaces. Unfortunately, that means some interested participants may not get in. Waitlists help us to gauge the popularity of our programs. It’s possible that we may eventually be able to add additional spaces; if so, waitlisted campers get first priority to enroll! There is no financial commitment to add a participant to a waitlist. If a space opens, we will contact you and allow 24 hours for you to confirm enrollment.
Field Trips:
The State of Ohio recommends that day camp providers cancel all field trips, excursions and large group events. Parks & Recreation staff will closely monitor recommendations from the Ohio Department of Health; as the season progresses, we will revisit the possibility of visiting venues where campers/staff can remain safely distanced from each other and the general public. Opportunities may include: parks and natural areas within the City of Gahanna; Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks; other municipal parks and outdoor venues.
Pool Visits:
Parks & Recreation staff are working to ensure campers are able to have a swimming experience this summer. Depending on home camp site, campers may visit Hunters Ridge Pool or Gahanna Swimming Pool. Each camper group will visit the pool at a different time; time slots may be morning or afternoon, one day a week. Transportation and pool capacity limits will be taken into account.
Mask Policies:
Parents/caregivers are required to wear a facial covering when checking camper(s) in or out of the day camp program, unless they are unable to do so for medical reasons. Campers will be required to wear a mask any time social distancing is not possible indoors or outdoors (such as traveling in a vehicle), when more than one group is present in an enclosed space (such as during inclement weather under a park shelter). Exceptions may be made during strenuous exercise or emergency situations.”
Payment Options
Installment Billing will be offered for all camp sessions, as well as Summer Kick-Off and Summer Wrap-Up. Installment Billing allows households to pay for camp registrations in installments of the following pre-defined dates and amounts. This option is available for participants registering prior to June 1.
Register before April 1: 1/3 total fees due at time of registration with payments on May 1, Jun 1
Register between May 1 – May 31: 1/2 fees due at time of registration with payment on Jun 1
Pay-In-Full: Complete session fees due at time of registration
Refund and Credit Policy
IMPORTANT: Individuals who enroll under the full summer priority enrollment (prior to March 24 at 9am) do not qualify for individual week refunds or credits.
One change in enrollment (session transfer or cancellation) is allowed per camper per season at no additional cost. Changes must be requested at least 2 weeks in advance of the first date of the session in order to receive full credit for a transfer to another session or a refund in the form of household credit, which expire one year from the date issued. Cash refunds are not issued.
Additional customer requested cancellations and changes are subject to a $25 administrative fee.
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- This includes transferring from one week of camp to another.
- If changes to registration are made more than one time, multiple administrative fees will apply.
- Changes within 2 weeks of the first date of the session will result in forfeiture of the session fee. No credits or transfers will be issued for customer requested cancellations within 2 weeks of the start of the camp session. Refund requests for extenuating circumstances must be presented in writing and are fulfilled at the discretion of the Department Director.
Registration Info: What You Need to Know
- “Gahanna Residents” are those that pay City of Gahanna income tax or are employed within the City of Gahanna and have submitted proof of employment verification to Parks & Recreation.
- Registration will open for non-resident families (including Gahanna Jefferson School District residents who live outside of the City limits) on March 26.
- Pre-Registration/Pre-Requisite: Not needed this year. It is requested that families login to their WebTrac account to review their Household & Member Account details prior to registering for camp. (Alternatively, you may call us at 614.342.4250 for assistance)
- Navigate to https://webtrac.gahanna.gov/
- Click “Login” in the top right corner.
- If you do not remember your login credentials, please call 614.342.4250 to retrieve your information.
- If you do not have an account, please select “register for a new account.”
- In the top menu bar, under “My Account,” and “Update” choose “Household & Member”
- Please review and update information as necessary. A current phone number, email address and physical address are important for receiving important communications. Make sure all children registering for camp are listed in the household with an accurate birthdate.
- Recreation team members will contact families to confirm that household details are accurate.
Gahanna Municipal Golf Course
Located along the serene Big Walnut Creek, the golf course is a challenging 9-hole course open March-November, weather permitting. Please call ahead or book your tee times online and arrive 10 minutes prior to your time. Tee times are not available during league play hours.
As the health and safety of the community remains our priority, the following restrictions and precautions will be in place to best limit community spread and protect our staff and customers::
- Online scheduling or calling ( 614/342-4270) to book Tee Times is preferred.
- All members are required to check in at service window with ID and/or proof of purchase prior to play
- To cancel a tee time booked online, click on “Search” at the top of the page, go over to “Golf” and click on “Tee Time Cancel.”
- Do not arrive earlier than needed for your tee time.
- Riding carts and pull carts are available to rent. Both are sanitized after each use. With a limited number of carts, one may not be available for your tee time.
- Please clean trash out of your carts prior to returning them.
- Tee times are spaced out 10 minutes to accommodate an increase in walkers and to discourage stacking on tee boxes.
- GENERAL PUBLIC hours are 8 am – 7:30 pm.
- Course is open 7:30–8 am ONLY for golfers 55+ Monday thru Friday.
- No rental equipment after 5:30 pm.
- Bunker rakes and ball washers have been removed from the course.
- All transactions will take place through a service window connected to the Pro Shop.
- Pro Shop will be closed to entry (except for restroom facilities).
- Please do not participate if you are, or have been in close contact with someone, experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Gahanna Municipal Golf Course
220 Olde Ridenour Road
Pro Shop: 614-342-4270
Seasonal Hours of Operation: 7:30 am to Sunset, Weather Permitting, and Excluding League Play
Get Active in Gahanna’s Great Outdoors!
Explore parks and neighborhoods throughout Gahanna on a connected bikeway or trail and enjoy the scenic views along the Big Walnut Trail. The Gahanna Department of Parks & Recreation maintains of the bikeways, nature trails and multi-purpose trails in Gahanna. These trails are located in many public parks within Gahanna, and the vast majority are paved, conveniently located near parking lots, and are handicapped-accessible.
During the warm weather months, Gahanna Parks & Rec offers the opportunity to discover our water resources with a kayak and paddleboat rental program.
The 2021 paddleboat and kayak rental season has ended. Check back in spring 2022!
CONTACT INFORMATION
Gahanna Parks & Recreation
200 S. Hamilton Rd.
614-342-4250
Hours: M-F, 8 am-5 pm
Learn More About Gahanna’s Outdoor Experiences
MOONLIGHT PADDLE
Get Active in Gahanna’s Great Outdoors! The popular Gahanna Parks & Rec Moonlight Paddles offered during the warm weather months offer sunset paddling adventures with breathtaking views. Certified instructors provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking, solo or tandem kayaks, life vests, and paddles. Guides will assist participants along the float. Check back in early 2022 for a list of event dates.
Welcome!
The Gahanna Department of Parks & Recreation maintains park shelters available for public rental at Friendship, Hannah, and Woodside Green parks. Shelters are also available at Hunters Ridge Pool and Gahanna Swimming Pool. Indoor space is available at the clubhouse at the Gahanna Municipal Golf Course. Please contact us if you are interested in renting the Rotary Stage on the back, upper plaza area at Creekside Plaza overlooking the Big Walnut Creek.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Gahanna Parks & Recreation
200 S. Hamilton Rd.
614-342-4250
Hours: M-F, 8 am-5 pm
Recreation & Sports
Get active with these programs designed to keep you moving all year long! Programs span all activity levels and ages, from in-house Parks and Recreation programs to those run by third-party organizations.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Gahanna Parks & Recreation
200 S. Hamilton Road
614-342-4250
Trails & Bikeways
Gahanna Parks & Rec has a new Parks & Trails Guide available to help you navigate our amazing natural resource areas. Whether you are a frequent parks and trails enthusiast or just beginning your journey, we hope this map serves as a useful tool for your next adventure. The City of Gahanna is home to 750+ acres of beautiful parks and trails that provide an invaluable resource for physical and mental wellness, outdoor exploration, education and fun! We encourage you to navigate all 4.6 miles of the Big Walnut trail or visit a park across town that you may not have considered attending before. The vast majority of our trails are paved, conveniently located near parking lots, and are handicapped-accessible. Enjoy the journey!
Pick up a copy of the Trails map at Gahanna City Hall or the Gahanna Library
If you live outside the area, you can request a print copy of the guide be mailed to you by completing this for
m. (LINK)
Download a digital copy now by clicking this LINK, or scanning this QR Code:
Watch this video (below) for some fun insider tips about our Gahanna Parks & Trails!
CONTACT INFORMATION
Gahanna Parks & Recreation
200 S. Hamilton Road
614-342-4250
Gahanna Parks & Recreation.
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