Tinkers Creek State Park Overview
- Address: 10303 Aurora Hudson Road, Streetsboro, Ohio 44241
- Hours: Daily, 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
- Activities: Hiking, Biking, boating (kayaking), School Camps, Family Gatherings, Picnicking, Birdwatching, Fauna and Flora Viewing
Tinkers Creek State Park Guide
Tinkers Creek State Park History
According to the Department of Natural Resources, the area now known as Tinkers Creek State Park was “extremely valuable to Native Americans. This area is one of the state’s highest points and lies near the watershed divide in Ohio. The nearby Cuyahoga River flows north to Lake Erie, while the Tuscarawas (through the Muskingum) drains to the Ohio River. This proved advantageous as transportation by canoe from Lake Erie to the Ohio River was possible with only one 8-mile overland portage. The old Indian portage path traveled from the Cuyahoga to the Tuscarawas. This area became an important trade center for both pioneers and Indians.”
It then became one of the most important areas for cheesemaking in the early 1800s, and as time progressed, it became a private park known as Colonial Spring Gardens. Ohio then purchased the land in 1966, and in 1973, it became a state park. With the Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve, it is now part of the greater Liberty Park area.
Tinkers Creek State Park Activities
Tinkers Creek State Park Hiking Trail
Tinkers Creek State Park has one hiking trail that is less than 1 mile long and is considered flat and easy. Because the park is so small, it is incredibly easy to find the trail that loops around the Tinkers Creek Pond.
- Pond View Trail is a .8-mile loop with an easy, flat trail that crosses over wood boards and grass around Tinkers Creek Pond. On this trail, you will traverse marshlands, swamps, woodlands, and small creeks. In addition, you’ll witness beavers, deer, squirrels, muskrats, mallard ducks, herons, snipe, rail, woodcock, Canadian geese, and so much more.
Tinkers Creek State Park Picnic Area
Tinkers Creek State Park only has one picnic area, which may be the most popular spot in the entire park.
Pond View Shelter
- Pond View Shelter is a pavilion next to Tinkers Creek Pond. It is non-reservable and has a capacity of approximately 65 people.
- It has nine picnic tables, bathrooms, a small parking lot, a medium-sized field with benches, several grills, trail access, archery access, and animal-proof garbage cans, making it perfect for picnics and family gatherings.
- It is centrally located near archery, boat loading, and the Pond View Trail.
Activities
For a small State Park, you can pack a lot of activities without having to travel a very far distance. This makes the activities in the park perfect for a half or full-day trip.
Boating
- One of the popular summer activities is boating at Tinkers Creek Pond. It should be noted that only kayaks and canoes are allowed in the pond, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll or your fishing needs. It should also be noted that there is a specific spot where you should launch your boat (see the map below). The pond is comparable to a small lake, making it great for an hour to two-hour activity.
Fishing
- Tinkers Creek State Park has ample fishing at Tinkers Creek Pond (centrally located in the park). This is a hidden gem in Northeast Ohio, as it is perfect for novice anglers who want to catch fish like largemouth bass, bluegill sunfish, black crappie, and channel catfish. Best of all, there are few areas where your fishing line can get snagged and lots of space, no matter the time of year.
Archery
- Archery is one of this park’s most unique features and one not offered in many state parks in Ohio. There are six archery stations, quivers are provided (for free), and there are eight targets. You can spend hours practicing your archery skills, and it’s also an excellent spot for kids and families who are just starting.
Attractions
Tinkers Creek State Park is more than just a state park with activities. It is state-protected and for all people, flora, and fauna. It is covered with woodlands, marshlands, swamps, and green as far as the eye can see.
Pond
Tinkers Creek Pond
- Tinkers Creek Pond is a large pond in the heart of Tinkers Creek State Park. While it does not get as deep as other ponds, it is perfect for boating, fishing, and picnicking. It is also part of the Pond View trail listed above. This is considered the most popular attraction of the entire park and where most visitors spend their time.
Tinkers Creek State Park Map
While Tinkers Creek State Park is small and easily navigatable, a map is always invaluable. Below is the map of the park and its trails. You can also find this map at the Pond View Shelter.
Tinkers Creek State Park Virtual Tour
How to Get There
Getting to the Tinkers Creek State Park is incredibly easy. All you have to do is put Tinkers Creek State Park into your phone.
If you don’t have a phone, you can access the park via one road. You will arrive at Tinkers Creek State Park via the Aurora-Hudson Road. You will then turn onto Kinsman Road and follow this for approximately 1/4 mile until you reach all the activities within the park (the only accessible part of the park).
Alternative Park
Tinkers Creek State Park is one of Ohio’s quietest and peaceful state parks. This is an excellent place if you want peace and little crowds.
If you are looking for a similar park with more hiking trails and an opportunity to see the elusive bald eagle, check out Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve.
The state preserve has beautiful trails and excellent opportunities for wildlife like bald eagles, hawks, deer, coyotes, squirrels, etc. Not only that, but the trails are well-maintained, contain unique natural features, and are perfect for beginner hikers and families.
Best of all, Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve is only a 10-minute drive from the state park to enjoy both in one day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Tinkers Creek State Park is open from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Yes, pets are allowed. Dogs are most common, but I’ve also seen other pets.
There is no entrance fee for Tinkers Creek State Park.
No, there are no ranger programs or guided tours in the park.
No, alcohol is not allowed in Tinkers Creek State Park
Yes, specific trails, facilities, and park parts are wheelchair accessible.
Yes, you can fish in Tinkers Creeks Pond. There are numerous types of fish in the pond.
If there is an emergency, you should call 330-867-5511.
No, there is no swimming in Tinkers Creek State Park.
Yes, the best place to observe birds and wildlife is at Tinkers Creek Pond.
No, there is no current restrictions on photography or filming in the park.
No, you cannot fly drones in the park.
Learn More About Tinkers Creek State Park
Tinkers Creek State Park is a fantastic state park for locals and tourists. You can easily spend an entire day there doing many activities. The park is incredibly safe, easy to navigate, and without predators, which other parks in the United States may have; you can visit it during any season and time of day. If you want to learn more about specific areas or details of the park, click on the above sections.
