Parks & Outdoors

Reconnect with Nature

Like the rivers carving their way through Defiance County, Northwest Ohio is a confluence of outdoor experiences. Of course, the Maumee, Auglaize, and Tiffin rivers are a draw for nature enthusiasts of all ages, providing ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. But the great outdoors extends beyond the flowing streams. Our fabulous city parks promise memorable moments in the sunshine and fresh air with playgrounds, splash pads, pools, and trails to explore. Plus, the asphalt path around our reservoir provides a smooth surface for a leisurely stroll.

Merry-Go-Round
Snowy Trail
Playground Equipment
Hiking Trail from Above

Blaze a Trail

Lace up your hiking shoes and get your steps in around Defiance County. Paved loop trails and rugged, natural paths offer a relaxing yet challenging experience for hikers and bikers alike.

Walking Trail

Fun Around Every Bend

Not every destination is as blessed with so many opportunities for fun on the water as Defiance County, whether you’re reeling in the Big One or simply enjoying a serene summer day paddling down the cool currents.

Tee Off

Home to three golf courses boasting exciting challenges and peaceful scenery, Defiance County is a Midwestern golfer’s paradise. Check out the rolling, tree-lined fairways and meticulous greens and book your tee time.

Golf Cart
Pickleball

Serve Up!

Get in on America’s fastest-growing sport right here in Defiance! The Defiance Pickleball Club meets at Kingsbury Park, home to six dedicated, hard-surface pickleball courts complete with permanent lights, nets, and lines. Join in the action — this easy-to-learn sport is perfect for all ages and lifestyles!


Bronson Park
Listing Title
2104 Power Dam Road, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
Bronson Park is located on the south end of Defiance. The park was named after E.S. Bronson who served as the Mayor of Defiance for 4 terms. Bronson Park is a 25-acre multi-purpose park consisting of two sand volleyball courts, two ball fields, three shelter houses, one basketball court, and playground area. In 2017, an addition to Bronson Park was […]
Defiance Reservoir Walk & Nature Trail
1261 Precision Way, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
The Reservoir Nature Trail is an 8-foot wide, multi-use trail extending from the Defiance Reservoir parking lot through approximately 2,500 feet of natural wooded area. It connects to the “lower” pathway around the municipal reservoir. This walkway offers opportunities for bird watching, leaf-peeping, or just enjoying quiet walks through nature. The “upper” trail is a 1.25-mile stone walkway around the […]
Defiance Splash Park
Listing Title
2104 Power Dam Road, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
The Defiance Splash Park opens on May 1st for the season! The Park is inclusive and free to all. It is open from 9 am to 9 pm, May through September.
Diehl Park
Listing Title
901 Wemor Street, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
Diehl Park consists of 39.77 acres.  If you are looking for a park made with kids in mind, Diehl Park is a must see. Located on the northwest side of the city, with two large, covered shelter houses, a basketball court, four softball fields and a baseball diamond, it is sure to keep the sports minded occupied. The biggest attraction […]
Eastside Park
Listing Title
1185 Karnes Avenue, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
Eastside Park is located at 1185 Karnes Avenue and has been re-energized with new playground equipment, a basketball court, a shelter house, and a ball diamond. This Park was part of the Eastside Neighborhood Revitalization Project. We welcome you to spend a few hours with the family to enjoy this beautiful park!
Fort Grounds
Listing Title
320 Fort Street, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
The Fort Grounds are located at 320 Fort Street and situated on the confluence of the Maumee and Auglaize Rivers. The Carnegie Library (Defiance Public Library) is also located on the Fort Grounds. Fort Defiance, in the heart of a populous Indian Nation, was erected by General Anthony Wayne in 1794. The grounds of Fort Defiance, immortalized by “Mad” Anthony […]
Hicksville Nature Trail
9425 Casebeer Miller Road, Hicksville
Beautiful community nature trail, 1.8 mile loop.
Holgate Park
Listing Title
807 Holgate Avenue, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
A lovely neighborhood park that is located in the historical district on Holgate Avenue. Beautifully landscaped with a Victorian Gazebo and a walking path. A baseball diamond, basketball court and playground equipment can occupy an entire family with an afternoon of fun.
Hometown Heroes Park
Listing Title
648 Clinton Street, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
Hometown Heroes Park is located at 648 Clinton Street and was established in September 2013. This park is one of the City’s most proud accomplishments with several community members collaborating together to make this park a reality. The Hometown Heroes Park is a lasting tribute to the active-duty men and women service members. We invite you to stop by and […]
Independence Dam State Park
27722 State Route 424, Defiance 43512
419.237.2593
Independence Dam State Park covers 591-acres situated along the banks of the beautiful Maumee River. This park is located approximately 3 miles east of Defiance on St. Rt. 424 and offers recreational opportunities including boating access, hiking trails, camping, fishing, scenic drives, and picnic areas. A hiking trail, once the towpath for the Miami/Wabash/Erie Canal, meanders between the old canal […]
Kingsbury Park, Pool & Pickleball Facilities
102 Auglaize Street, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
A centrally located park on the east side of the city provides a beautiful view of the Maumee and Auglaize rivers. Enjoy 6 covered shelter houses, playground equipment with all-inclusive swing, a baseball diamond, pickleball courts and a basketball court. Children of all ages will love the water slide and wading pool at Kingsbury Pool located next to the park.
Oxbow Lake & Wildlife Area
9 Schick Road, Defiance 43512
419.424.5000
Oxbow Lake lies 5 miles northwest of the city of Defiance and can be accessed from State Route 15 at Schick Road. Fish of Interest for Anglers include largemouth bass, bluegill, green sunfish and bullhead.  The operation of watercraft with any motor is permitted but at idle speed only without creating a wake. There is a small boat launch located […]
Penney Nature Center
Listing Title
08855 Ashpacher Road, Defiance 43512
419.782.1794
If you like to get outdoors and walk rustic natural trails, you are more than welcome to enjoy the Penney Nature Center (PNC). Open from dawn to dusk, PNC is composed of 78 acres and consists of several wetlands, woodlands, and prairie land. 78 acres – 5 trails – 3.5 miles of trails – Pavillion with picnic tables – Several […]
Pontiac Metro Park
Listing Title
15 East River Road, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
Pontiac Metro Park features “in-town” river access with it’s boat ramp and ample parking. This beautiful park has a splendid view of the confluence of the Maumee and Auglaize rivers and provides a peacefulness that is perfect for a relaxing picnic. It is the site of the Old French Indian Apple Tree Marker and the possible birthplace of the Ottawa […]
Reservoir and Disc Golf
1261 Precision Way, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
Parking for boats, ramp and boat docks provide easy access for boating and fishing.  The reservoir is surrounded by a 1¼ mile walkway around the top of the reservoir with 6 benches along the walk and another at the handicapped parking near the boat ramp.  A 9-Hole Frisbee Golf Course is situated below the northern ridge of the reservoir, and […]
Riverside Park
Listing Title
849 Riverside Avenue, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
This 30-acre park is a sportsman’s dream with a baseball diamond and four soccer fields. There is also a shelter house, playground equipment and updated restroom facility. This is the place to be in autumn to catch a glance of the up and comers in our area school sports programs.
Triangle Park
Listing Title
655 Clinton Street, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
Triangle Park serves as a focal point to Downtown Defiance and is currently home to concerts and picnics.
Veteran’s Memorial Park at Latty’s Grove
610 Williams Street, Defiance 43512
419.784.2745
Mature trees shade this centrally located park on the south side of the downtown area. Two covered shelter houses, a ball diamond, playground equipment, basketball court, a tennis court, and updated rest room facilities are available for an afternoon of leisure.