Shale Hollow Park - Delaware, OH
Shale Hollow Park – A Pet-Friendly Hiking Spot in Delaware, Ohio
Shale Hollow Park in Delaware, Ohio, is a scenic local gem known for its unique geological formations, paved and natural hiking trails, and welcoming atmosphere for both families and dog owners. With wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking, it offers easy access for everyone. Visitors especially love the striking “Concretions”—large, spherical rock formations that make this park stand out among local attractions.
The park’s pet-friendly trails allow leashed dogs, so it’s perfect for those searching for dog-friendly hiking in Delaware, Ohio. Although dogs are not allowed on certain trails, you and your furry companion can enjoy gravel walkways that wind through beautiful landscapes, creeks, and shaded paths. Amenities like picnic tables, public restrooms, and kid-friendly activities (including natural play areas by the creek) make Shale Hollow Park a great spot for the whole family—whether you’re hiking, enjoying a picnic, or just taking in the tranquil surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at Shale Hollow Park? Yes, dogs are allowed on certain trails, especially the gravel walkways. Please check signage at the park for any trail restrictions.
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs must be kept on a leash while visiting Shale Hollow Park.
- Are there paved and natural trails available? Yes, Shale Hollow Park features both paved and natural trails for hiking with your dog.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, both the entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
- Are restrooms available? Yes, public restrooms are available on site.
- Is there a picnic or play area for families and kids? Yes, there are picnic tables and kid-friendly play areas, including a creek that’s popular with families.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there is a dedicated parking lot for Shale Hollow Park users.
Reviews
Love this place! I was really curious about the giant spherical objects around and it urged me to do some research on them. They’re called, “Concretions” and there’s many types of them. Seeing these things scattered everywhere here is almost alien-like and looks like it’s straight from sci-fi film. It’s really cool to see for yourself. The pictures don’t do justice! Highly recommend this place for casual walking or for curious kids who want to learn about cool geological formations!
Gorgeous little park but its such a shame that my dog couldn’t go with me on Big Run Trail. I wanted to see some rock formations and drove a long way with my dog. I assumed, being from Yellow Springs, that parks around Columbus would be more accepting of dogs since Yellow Springs is. I am shocked now to see that most parks around Columbus discriminate heavily against dogs. I hope there is good reason for this. It was so disappointing today.
This was truly so relaxing in this part of town. The water ways and the trails were nice. The paved trailed are user friendly while the ones that are not paved are filled with roots and hills
Nice little park in Orange Twp just off of US 23 north of Delaware. It is dog friendly on the gravel walkways. We could see some of the river and the Concretions from the dog-friendly path.
Such a beautiful hidden gem. We loved the trails and the creek. The natural play area was ok, but the creek made the entire visit worth it