Hemlock Creek Picnic Area Overview
- Capacity: 80 people (Parking holds 80+)
- Amenities: Field, Drinking Fountain, Restrooms, Swingset, Grills, Picnic Tables (10, 8-foot tables enclosed), Parking, Trail Access, Biking Station, Waterfall
- Activities: Picnicking, Day Camps, Relaxing
- Reservable: No
Hemlock Creek Picnic Area Guide
Hemlock Creek Picnic Area
Hemlock Creek Picnic Area is the most beautiful picnic area in the Bedford Reservation and is extremely popular in the spring months for its wildflowers and summer for its scenic creek views. It is one of the largest picnic areas in the park, holding over 80 people, making it a perfect spot for large family gatherings, work trips, lunches, picnics, camps, and so much more.
In addition to an ample enclosed shelter space that can hold 50 individuals, there are also half a dozen picnic tables in the field and area, providing ample space for numerous parties. There is also a cooking preparation station as part of the picnic shelter, numerous charcoal grills, a water fountain, a swing set, and a bike station that provides free air and tools for any of your needs. As part of the large parking lot, there are also two unisex bathrooms.
What sets this picnic area apart from others in Northeast Ohio is its natural attractions. It is adjacent to Hemlock Creek, and you can even view Tinkers Creek, which becomes a popular area to soak your feet in the summer (when it is not high). Not only this, but it is one of the few picnic shelters in the area that has a surreal waterfall within 100 yards of it. It also has access to the bridal trail and an open field for kids and adults to enjoy.
Alternative Option
Hemlock Creek Picnic Area is one of the most popular picnic spots during spring through fall weekends in not only Bedford, but all of northeast Ohio.
If you want a picnic area with the same space, amenities, and a quick 10-minute drive away, look no further than Egbert Picnic Area.
This picnic shelter is approximately the same size as the Hemlock Creek shelter, with potentially fewer crowds. It should be noted that you will still want to get here earlier in the morning or late in the evening during summer hours, but it gets a lot less traffic in spring and fall.
Best of all is that the Egbert Picnic Area is more centralized to other trails, sights, and the local golf course compared to the Hemlock Creek Shelter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hemlock Creek Picnic Area is located in the Bedford Reservation. It is off Button Road and only a 10-minute drive from other Bedford Reservation activities.
There are 8 picnic tables in the enclosed shelter, 6 picnic tables in the fields, a half dozen charcoal grills, two unisex restrooms, running water, a small swingset, an open field, a small bike station, an open shelter, a beautiful creek, and entrance to a hiking trail.
Yes, this Picnic Area can be accessed by individuals with disabilities. The parking lot is located directly next to the shelter. The shelter is handicap accessible, but the open field may make it difficult for those with wheelchairs.
This picnic area accommodates 80 individuals, and a parking lot can hold 50 vehicles.
There are no restrictions. Dogs and other animals are allowed in the picnic area.
You can bring your own food and beverage. Alcohol is not permitted in the park.
No, this is free and is first-come, first-serve.
The facility has several trash and recycling cans.
It is operational all year, from 6 am – 10 pm.
Hemlock Creek Picnic Area Virtual Tour
How to Get There (Driving Directions)
The easiest way to get to Hemlock Creek Picnic Area (parking lot) is to put it into your phone and GPS.
There are numerous ways to get to the Hemlock Creek Picnic Area. The most popular route is to come from Dunham Road and take either a right or left onto Button Road until you get to the parking lot.
You can also get to the picnic area via Gorge Parkway, to Dunham Roa,d to Button Road. Finally, if you are on Tinkers Creek Road, it will automatically turn into Button Road and take you to the parking lot.
Learn More About the Bedford Reservation
While Hemlock Picnic Area is the most beautiful picnic shelter in the Bedford Reservation, there are numerous other picnic areas and shelters that can provide similar experiences. Below is a list of all the picnic shelters that you can enjoy in the park:
- Egbert Picnic Area
- Hermit’s Hollow Picnic Area
- Lost Meadows Picnic Area
- Willis Picnic Area
