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City of Gahanna Ohio
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PARKS & RECREATION

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ABOUTCreekside ArboretumACTIVE SENIORSAQUATICSArts & EducationCAMPSGOLFOUTDOOR EXPERIENCESRENTALSRecreation & SportsTrails & Bikeways

Comprehensive Parks Master Plan Survey

The Gahanna Department of Parks and Recreation is in the process of updating its Comprehensive Parks Master Plan, and we need your help.  The purpose of the plan is to guide decision-making on policy, operations, maintenance and capital improvements over the next 10 years.  Input and feedback received from the community will be used to create the guiding principles and an actionable roadmap for the direction of the Parks and Recreation Department. We look forward to hearing your thoughts and serving all of your health, wellness, recreational and educational adventures. To complete the brief survey, click HERE.


Creekside Live

Creekside LIVE is back at Creekside Park & Plaza! Enjoy a Friday night in Gahanna’s picturesque downtown with family and friends while jamming out with local performers! Live music can be found throughout the plaza from 5-10 p.m. Those of legal drinking age can enjoy a chilled beverage from one of the wonderful establishments within the CORA limits. No tickets or reservations are required. View the full lineup HERE.

Parks & Rec Summer Guide

Details about Independence Day and other fun events are available in the new Parks & Rec 2022 Summer Guide. These guides will be arriving at your mailboxes any day! As we return to a full summer calendar, the Guide provides all the information you need to plan for events and activities this summer. Click HERE to view the digital version of the 2022 Summer Guide.

Midweek at the Creek(side)

Returning by popular demand. This Creekside event was created in 2021 to give residents the opportunity to enjoy outdoor entertainment in a safe environment during the pandemic. The free, live music event will be held on the Creekside Plaza every Wednesday, from 6 to 8 p.m., starting June 1 through August 10 (no event on June 15).

Muddy Miler

Presented by Tina Wedebrook, RE/MAX Connection
Gahanna Parks and Recreation Department presents
the FREE Muddy Miler Family Adventure. The Muddy Miler is an adventure run offering the entire family obstacles, mud and more! WARNING: You will get muddy from head to toe if you want to conquer the Muddy Miler! Join us to explore the outdoors on our nature trail that winds through the Southwest Flood Plain (near the Gahanna Swimming Pool).
Date: August 14
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Location: Gahanna Swimming Pool
Cost: FREE! (online pre-registration required)

Register HERE.

  • Tina Wedebrook, RE/MAX Connection, Premier Sponsor 
  • OAP (Ohio Athletic Performance), Supporting Sponsor 
  • Funtrail, Supporting Sponsor 
  • Gahanna Parks and Recreation Foundation, Supporting Sponsor 
  • 104.9 The River, Community Sponsor  

Gahanna Farmers Market

The Gahanna Farmers Market, presented by Make Gahanna Yours, will be back with a NEW time and location. The market will take place at the corner of Town and High Streets from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, starting June 1. The market now coincides with Midweek at the Creek, giving everyone another reason to hang out at Creekside for some “midweek relief.”

Paddles

Moonlight Kayak Paddle
This series was designed to take advantage of the sights of summer’s unique lunar events, including full moons and super moons! Certified instructors will provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking. Kayaks (solo or tandem), life vests, and paddles will be provided and guides will assist participants along the float. Register HERE.

Kayak Float

Relax and enjoy the beauty of the Big Walnut Creek waterway right here in our backyard on June 28. ACA-certified instructors will provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking. After the brief paddling lesson, participants will travel down the Big Walnut Creek, beginning at Friendship Park and concluding at Pizzurro Park. Kayaks, life vests, and paddles will be provided. Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are responsible for their own transportation (to Friendship/from Pizzurro). Register HERE.

Kayaking 101

Learn the basics of paddling and get more comfortable exploring Gahanna’s waterways through this introduction to kayaking. ACA-certified instructors will provide a thorough dive into the techniques and skills needed to be confident – and safe – kayaker. Participants will practice these skills in the water and have time to give paddling their best shot! Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Kayaks, life vests, and paddles will be provided. This program is for educational purposes, not certification.Register HERE.

Parks & Rec Scholarships Available

The 2022 Parks & Recreation Scholarship Award is determined by eligibility in the National School Lunch Program, which is based on household size and overall income guidelines. If you do not participate in this program, a letter of financial need/hardship will be required.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP. 

Work with Our Crew in 2022

 

Now is the perfect time to line up your summer job! Gahanna Parks & Rec is hiring for multiple seasonal positions for the 2022 late spring/summer season. Make money, learn new skills, meet friends and make great memories. Go HERE to apply today! 

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

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.

________________________________________________


Download our Parks & Trails Map

Our Gahanna 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

_____________________________________________________

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

Learn More About Arts & Education Programs

Summer Camps in Gahanna

The Gahanna Parks & Recreation team is planning to return to more typical operations in 2022 and will continually monitor COVID-19 related recommendations from state and local health agencies and the American Camp Association and will update operations, accordingly.

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 w/ payments on May 1, June 1

Register May 1 – May 31: 1/2 fees due at time of registration with payment on June 1

Pay-In-Full: Complete session fees due at time of registration

Refund and Credit Policy

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.

    • 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.

2022 Registration Info: What You Need to Know

Registration Dates: March 10 for Gahanna Residents &  March 14 for non-residents.

  • “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 residents on March 10, and for non-resident families (including Gahanna Jefferson School District residents who live outside of the City limits) on March 14
  • 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.
2022 Summer Camps
Register for a Program
2022 Summer Camp Handbook
Scholarship Application (Click Here)

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

Learn More about the Gahanna Municipal Golf Course
Book Your Tee Time Now!

National Get Outdoors Day Activities

Bike the Big Walnut Trail

Bike the Big Walnut Trail

Benefits of Biking:

  • Increase Muscle Strength and Flexibility
  • Increased Cardiovascular Fitness
  • Improves Mental Well-Being
  • Strengthens your Immune System
  • Boosts your Brain Power

The Big Walnut Trail:

  • 6 Miles Long
  • Follows the Big Walnut Creek through Westerville, Gahanna, and Whitehall, OH
  • Stops along the way: Hoover Reservoir, Creekside Metropark, Innwood Metropark, Gahanna Swimming Pool, Academy Park, Woodside Green Park, Gahanna Golf Course

Getting on the Trail:

  • Hoover Reservoir Park to Innwood Park= 1.4mi
  • Innwood Park to Academy Park= 7.5mi
  • Academy Park to Woodside Green Park= 1.0mi
  • Woodside Green to Gahanna Golf Course= 1.7mi
  • Gahanna Golf Course to Creekside Park= 0.5mi
  • Creekside Park to Gahanna Pool= 0.5mi
  • Gahanna Pool to Friendship Park= 1.1mi

Gardening

How Can Gardening Help The Environment?

  • Help Reduce Landfills
  • Improve Air and Soil Quality
  • Plants Add Moisture and Nutrients to the Soil
  • Protects Local Wildlife and Pollinators
  • Helps Decrease Global Warming

How Can Gardening Be Helpful For Humans?

  • Helps Reduce Stress
  • Develop Independence
  • Learn Responsibility
  • Staying Healthy by Eating Fruits and Vegetables
  • Increase Vitamin D Intake

What Do You Need To Make Your Own Garden?

  • Pick a Spot in Your Yard: You want your garden in a 6×8 area
  • Start Digging: Use a rake to dig up the ground to break up the soil, remove stones, grass, and weeds
  • Choose the Plants: Pick the plants you would like to grow in your garden. (Examples: Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Peppers)
  • Watch them Grow: Water them when needed, make sure they have plenty of sunshine
  • Harvest and Enjoy: Harvest the vegetables when they are ripe to get the full flavor and health benefits. Eat your fruits and vegetables to grow big and strong

Kayaking

Click HERE to learn more about Kayaking!

Pollinators

Click the link below for some examples of what we as humans can do to help the pollinators keep our ecosystem healthy. Also you’ll find a worksheet of examples of different animals that are pollinators. You can print this out at home and take it to Gahanna Woods to keep track of how many pollinators you can find. Click HERE to learn more about Pollinators!

Fish vs. Humans

Did you know that fish and humans have similarities? Click the link to see how humans are similar to fish and how fish and humans are different and find a list of fish you can find in Ohio. Click HERE to learn more about fish!

National Get Outdoors Day! (June 11)

June 11, 2022 National Get Outdoors Day

  • Today is the Day National Get Outdoors Day. Go out and visit all of Gahanna’s local parks to celebrate by learning about the different ways you can celebrate by getting outdoors.
  • Go biking on the Big Walnut Creek Trail to improve your mental and physical health. While biking along the Big Walnut Creek Trail be sure to visit various parks and locations around the central Ohio area.
  • Visit the Garden at Hannah Park to learn about the different ways a garden can make you healthy and get inspired about the different ways you could start your own garden in your backyard.
  • Plan a day at Gahanna Woods to see how many pollinators you can find on that list and learn about what you can do to help these pollinators sustain our ecosystems.
  • Visit Friendship Park and Hoover Reservoir to learn more techniques about how to be an expert kayaker. Into to Kayaking is Wednesday June 1 and Thursday July 28 4pm-6pm $15 Residents $20 Non-Residents. Kayak Floats is Tuesday June 28 5pm-6pm starting at Friendship Park and ending at Pizzurro Park 5pm-7pm $15 Residents $20 Non-Residents. Moonlight Paddle is Tuesday June 14 & Wednesday July 13 at 7:30pm and Thursday August 11 at 7pm and Friday September 9 at 6pm. Located at Hoover Reservoir Oxbow Road Boat Ramp $20 Residents and $25 for Non-Residents.

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

Paddles

Moonlight Kayak Paddle
This series was designed to take advantage of the sights of summer’s unique lunar events, including full moons and super moons! Certified instructors will provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking. Kayaks (solo or tandem), life vests, and paddles will be provided and guides will assist participants along the float. Register HERE.

Kayak Float

Relax and enjoy the beauty of the Big Walnut Creek waterway right here in our backyard on June 28. ACA-certified instructors will provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking. After the brief paddling lesson, participants will travel down the Big Walnut Creek, beginning at Friendship Park and concluding at Pizzurro Park. Kayaks, life vests, and paddles will be provided. Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are responsible for their own transportation (to Friendship/from Pizzurro). Register HERE.

Kayaking 101

Learn the basics of paddling and get more comfortable exploring Gahanna’s waterways through this introduction to kayaking. ACA-certified instructors will provide a thorough dive into the techniques and skills needed to be confident – and safe – kayaker. Participants will practice these skills in the water and have time to give paddling their best shot! Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Kayaks, life vests, and paddles will be provided. This program is for educational purposes, not certification.Register HERE.

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

View More Shelter & Facility Rentals Information

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

Learn More About Gahanna Recreation and Sports

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 form. (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

Learn More About Gahanna Trails & Bikeways

Events

Gahanna Parks & Recreation.

This map is best used in Chrome, Safari, Internet Explorer, and Edge browsers.

Connect with Gahanna Parks & Recreation

Gahanna Parks & Rec Follow

Gahanna Parks and Rec is responsible for 759 acres of parkland and open space, and is committed to serving Gahanna residents! This page is not monitored 24/7.

GahannaParksRec
gahannaparksrec Gahanna Parks & Rec @gahannaparksrec ·
30 Jul

The Muddy Miler Family Adventure, presented by Tina Wedebrook from RE/MAX Connection, is just a few weeks away! There is no cost to participate, but preregistration is required. Register here: http://ow.ly/17hA50K2nXN

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gahannaparksrec Gahanna Parks & Rec @gahannaparksrec ·
29 Jul

Come enjoy your Friday night at the pool with half price hot dogs! Pool membership or Daily Pass is required for entry.
Date: Every Friday
Location: Gahanna Swimming Pool
Time: 4pm-8pm Price: Pool membership/daily pass

Reply on Twitter 1553033218760314880 Retweet on Twitter 1553033218760314880 Like on Twitter 1553033218760314880 Twitter 1553033218760314880
gahannaparksrec Gahanna Parks & Rec @gahannaparksrec ·
28 Jul

Dive-In Movies, supported by the Gahanna Parks & Recreation Foundation, returns this Saturday to Hunters Ridge Pool! Stop by to enjoy themed poolside games, activities and food specials. Moana (PG) begins at dark.

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gahannaparksrec Gahanna Parks & Rec @gahannaparksrec ·
26 Jul

Enjoy $2 Walking Tacos every Tuesday at the pool!
Pool membership or Daily Pass is required for entry.
Date: Every Tuesday
Location: GSP & HRP
Time: 12pm-8pm
Price: Pool membership/daily pass

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gahannaparksrec Gahanna Parks & Rec @gahannaparksrec ·
25 Jul

Learn the basics of paddling and get more comfortable exploring Gahanna’s waterways through this introduction to kayaking. Kayaks, life vests and paddles provided.
Location: Friendship Park
Date: Thursday, July 28
Time: 4 – 6 p.m.
Price: $15 for residents/$20 for nonresidents

Reply on Twitter 1551620915657687043 Retweet on Twitter 1551620915657687043 Like on Twitter 1551620915657687043 1 Twitter 1551620915657687043
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Gahanna City Hall
200 S Hamilton Rd
Gahanna, OH 43230
614-342-4000

      

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