By 1812Blockhouse
The Richland County Park District has announced that the Fleming Falls Preserve is open for additional periods this month in anticipation of a permanent increase in access.
Through Sunday, November 5, the Fleming Falls Preserve will be open daily from dawn until dusk. This is a significant step towards the park’s goal of being open seven days a week, year-round, starting in the summer of 2024.
The RCPD aims to use the month of October as a trial run for the park’s eventual permanent opening. The preserve, which is typically open only on weekends, will extend its access to every day of the week for this limited period. This change comes as the park district inches closer to securing new funding that will allow for seven-day-a-week operations starting in 2024.
For those unfamiliar with the location, the preserve does not yet have an official address. However, visitors can use the old Camp Mowana address for navigation: 2276 Fleming Falls Road, Mansfield. Alternatively, a Google map search for 2294 Fleming Falls Road will lead you directly to the new parking area, which is just east of the old address.
Before you head out to enjoy the fall colors, there are some important guidelines to keep in mind:
- The preserve is open from dawn to dusk. Cars must vacate the parking lot by dark to avoid being locked in or towed.
- Public parking is available just past the old entrance. Do not attempt to enter through the closed and chained silver gate.
- Limited restroom facilities are available, with portable toilets located at the entrance.
- Trash cans are not provided, so please pack out what you pack in.
- For safety, stick to the marked trails and use the designated observation platform for viewing the main waterfall.
Dog owners will be pleased to know that their furry friends are welcome at the preserve. However, dogs must be leashed and under the owner’s control at all times. As there are no trash cans on the property, visitors are responsible for packing out any waste.
The district hopes to have the park fully operational much sooner than anticipated, so keep an eye out for updates.
