Paulding, Ohio County Parks
Check Out Your County Parks
The Parks
Junction
Defiance, Ohio
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Cecil Bridge
Cecil, Ohio
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Five Span
Defiance, Ohio
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Flat Rock Trail Park
Paulding, Ohio
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Fort Brown Park
Oakwood, Ohio
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New Rochester
Cecil, Ohio
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About Your County Parks
Our Mission
To create, enhance, and protect the natural and cultural resources of Paulding County, to foster respect and stewardship of these resources, while providing quality outdoor recreational opportunities for Paulding County Citizens.
Our Vision
Dedicated to developing and preserving parks and recreational areas for the use and enjoyment of citizens of Paulding County Ohio and surrounding areas.
The History of the Paulding County Park District
The Paulding County Commissioners established the Park District in 2003, beginning with 80 acres in Crane Township. Over time, limited inactivity led to a court hearing in December 2014 to consider dissolving the district. Instead of disbanding it, the Court issued a stay for at least ten months, giving the Commissioners and interested community members an opportunity to revitalize the Park District and chart a new path forward.
When a notice appeared in the Paulding Progress about the Park District’s uncertain future, it sparked exactly what the community needed—action. Linda Hodges stepped forward first, offering her time and leadership, soon joined by others who shared a belief in the importance parks play on quality of life. Their commitment breathed new life into the effort, leading to the Park District’s reorganization and official ratification in 2015.
Since then, the volunteer board has poured their energy into growing the Park District’s assets and strengthening its impact. They believe deeply in what parks bring to a community—spaces to gather, explore, learn, and feel connected to the place we call home. Their work continues to be driven by that purpose and by the belief that small steps can build lasting legacies.
What began with a handful of volunteers has grown into a shared commitment to preserving natural spaces and creating places where people can connect, explore, and feel proud of Paulding County. Their work continues to shape a legacy that will benefit generations to come.
The History of Northwest Ohio
Long before modern communities took shape, this region was part of the vast Great Black Swamp—an immense, water‑logged wilderness that stretched across northwest Ohio. Determined settlers undertook the difficult work of draining the swamp, clearing dense forests, and carving out the first transportation and trade routes. Their efforts transformed a wetland landscape into productive farmland and made way for the permanent villages and towns that exist in Paulding County today.
Discovering and exploring history is a rewarding, surprisingly addictive pastime. Citizens of Paulding County have access to a wealth of information, historical maps, documents, artifacts and genealogy resources due to the preservation efforts of the Paulding County Carnegie Library, the John Paulding Historical Society and History Matters on Facebook... we encourage you visit, explore and learn.
Every visit to a park brings new things to see and discover! Its proven that time spent outside sparks creativity, reduces stress, increases physical and mental wellness and contributes to the livability of a community.
Visit a park today and see for yourself!