Darke County Parks—Through the Years

This is the first installment of a series featuring Darke County Park District’s twelve park areas.  The mission of the Darke County Parks is to acquire and preserve land areas possessing special natural and historical features and to manage and maintain these resources for the benefit of its residents through appropriate educational and passive recreational programs and activities.  The Park District was created in 1972 when the honorable Judge Williams ordered the formation of the Park District.  The Park District is now comprised of over 1,000 acres.  

Coppess Nature Sanctuary is a 32-acre woodland located on Young Road, between Ansonia and Union City.  The donation of this tract of land by Mrs. Frances Carpenter was the catalyst for the creation of the Park District.  A level, well maintained ¾ mile loop trail, beginning and ending at a convenient parking area make this an ideal place for a short hike.  

Coppess Nature Sanctuary offers a splendid example of an Oak-Hickory forest and a glimpse of some of the great natural diversity of the Darke County region as it appeared 200 years ago.  Spring is the perfect time to visit this park as the forest floor plant community is impressive with more than 84 species of spring wildflowers.  Take the opportunity to visit this park, walk the trail and take in the stately oaks, Trilliums, Dutchman’s Breeches and Trout Lily’s blooming and so much more.  

All of the Darke County Parks are open sunrise to sunset.  For more information on Coppess Nature Sanctuary or any Darke County Parks, call the Park Office at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org