Headwaters Park

Location

13365 Old State Road (Rt. 608)
Claridon & Huntsburg Townships

Hours

Open 6 am until 11 pm today

View All Hours

Trail Maps

planning to take a hike?
get off on the right foot

Take a waterside walk Along East Branch reservoir

This 926-acre park is leased from the City of Akron in a partnership that allows for conservation of natural areas as well as enjoyment of recreation and outdoor education. Five trails total 4.7 miles. More than two miles of the statewide Buckeye Trail winds along the western shore of East Branch Reservoir. The eastern shore and all islands are designated preserves and only accessible during naturalist-led programs. A secondary entrance is located at 15055 Mayfield Road (Rt. 322).

Headwaters Park Facilities

Facilities

Headwaters Boathouse is a must-see structure and a great place to hold your event.

Headwaters Park Trails

Trails

It's not just water! Be sure to spend time hitting some other picturesque trails.

Eagle Flying in Headwaters Park habitat

Habitat

You'll love the beauty of this natural watershed that is home to a multitude of species, including Bald Eagles.

How's the water?BOAT LAUNCH LEVEL

How is the water level at the Headwaters Park boat launch?

Hypothermic water
Stick to the shore!
Good but not great
Grab your oars!

Get out on the water Boat Borrowing

Our 2024 season for boat borrowing kicks off Memorial Day weekend on Saturday, May 25! Find details posted under News & Updates above.

All times are first come, first served. Please be sure to read all the information on this page before you head out for a boat.

Beginning in June and lasting through early September, the Park District’s limited number of kayaks, canoes and paddleboats can be borrowed for self-guided tours of East Branch Reservoir from the boathouse. Hours of operation (and exceptional schedules) are posted to our News & Updates page during the season.

Geauga County residents can borrow boats for free (ID required), up to two hours for kayak and canoe and one hour max for paddleboats, with the last boats going out one hour before closing time. For out-of-county residents, boat borrowing costs $7 for child kayak, $10 for adult single kayak, $14 for tandem kayak or canoe, and $18 for paddleboats (credit card only, paid onsite). The required waiver, to be completed in advance or on site, can be found at this link. A driver’s license will be held as a security deposit for each loan.

Please note that enough Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices must be on board for each occupant (provided), life vests must be worn at all times, anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and sorry, dogs are not permitted on borrowed boats. Thanks for understanding!