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Cemex Reserve, located at the northern end of the Beaver Creek Wetlands, is a recently restored conservation site. After mining efforts ended, original drain patterns were restored and the marsh and prairies now flourish for local birds, amphibians, and many more local wildlife.
Trail Length:
1.2 miles
Flat but muddy after rain
In the early 1800’s, this site was likely a prairie wetland with shallow standing water. Farmers drained it and later the land was mined as a source of soils needed for the production of Portland cement.
Through a federal grant to Wright State University and the Beaver Creek Wetlands Association, this wetland and prairie were restored in the mid 1990s. Water was diverted back onto the land and original drainage patterns were restored. Plantings have restored native wildflowers, grasses and sedges.
The soil here is rich in sand which absorbs rain, purifying the water as it replenishes the underground aquifer. The aquifer is our only supply of clean drinking water. The design of this wetlands holds the storm runoff amounting to 75 acres of floodwater one foot deep, protecting homes in Fairborn and downstream.
Entrance and parking located on Sanctuary Drive, just north of Garland Ave.
Marsh, wet forest, wet prairie and small fens. The rare wet prairie naturally floods in late winter and spring then dries in summer to support Indian Grass, Big Bluestem and Little Bluestem grasses. Look also for coneflowers, Monkey Flowers, Ohio Goldenrod, Prairie Dock, Butterfly Weed and other colorful flowers in late summer. In late winter, waterfowl like wood duck and bufflehead may be seen in open water. At other times look for reptiles, amphibians, painted and map turtles, bluebirds, deer and fox.
No restrooms
No restrooms
The soil at Cemex Reserve is rich in sand and gravel and absorbs rain, purifying the water as it replenishes the aquifer underground. The aquifer supplies our drinking water. The design of this wetland holds storm runoff amounting to about 75 acres of floodwater one foot deep, thus protecting homes in Fairborn and downstream.
Pearl's Fen is a peat wetland containing a rich diversity of plant and animal life that is maintained by springs that emerge from nearby glacial deposits. Visitors can view the diverse wetland area from a boardwalk and access nearby Oakes Quarry via a connector trail.
Oakes Quarry is in the northern-most part of the Beaver Creek Wetlands watershed and drains to the Little Miami River. This site was originally surfaced mined for limestone before being sold to the Oakes family in the 1990's. The park includes trails that cross ancient limestone fossils exposed by the mining activity that formed the quarry.
Cemex Reserve, located at the northern end of the Beaver Creek Wetlands, is a recently restored conservation site. After mining efforts ended, original drain patterns were restored and the marsh and prairies now flourish for local birds, amphibians, and many more local wildlife.
Fairborn’s Community Park has much to offer with two restored prairies, over 40 acres of forest, several wetland areas and vernal pools, a five acre pond, as well as fitness trails and sports courts. Get outside and active while surrounded by these beautiful natural areas!
The park is comprised of over 27 acres along the Beaver Creek waterway, with a 1/4 mile paved looped pathway.
Containing the largest open water marsh in the Beaver Creek wetland corridor, Amon Reserve is a haven for migrating birds. A trail loops through the eastern side of the reserve, but the western side is a wildlife reserve, without access. Hike the 1 mile loop and visit the observation deck for amazing views of the marsh.
Koogler Preserve features the only large swamp in the Beaver Creek Wetland corridor, visit and explore the boardwalk and observation deck to see the diverse swamp ecosystem.
Containing 5 restored wetland areas, many different types of wetland ecosystems can be observed at the Beaver Creek Wildlife Area. The area has been studied by scientists for restoration methods of wetlands. Visit to explore swamps, marshes, fens and more!
Siebenthaler Fen offers an accessible 1 mile trail with many opportunities for wildlife viewing. The unique boardwalk is made from recycled plastic and fiberglass, and includes an observation tower for a birds-eye view of the wetlands.
The upland prairie here was purchased and planted with native plants in 2011. You can enjoy this prairie in peak bloom during mid- to late-summer. The observation deck provides elevated views and educational panels.
Used as both a research location and hiking spot, Phillips and Rotary Parks offer picnic spots and a catch and release fishing pond, as well as hiking trails throughout both areas.
This large city park includes a trailhead to the Spotted Turtle Trail and a newly restored native prairie (coming soon).
At Creekside reserve, native species are beginning to return to the Little Beaver Creek, thanks to many volunteers and organizations working in this wetland that borders US Route 35. Visit on foot or bike the dedicated bikeway!
The Monarch Waystation is situated along the bike path, with easy access from the parking lot at Beavercreek Station. Visitors can see many blooms and insects in the summer months.
Zimmerman Prairie is a remnant of an extensive prairie fen which occurred in the outwash-filled valleys of Beaver Creek in western Ohio.
(no public access; no hiking trails)
Beaver Creek Wetlands Association is a member-supported 501(c)3 land trust, working to protect and restore wetlands and other natural areas in the Beaver Creek watershed in Greene County, Ohio.
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