Just northwest of Columbus, where Hilliard’s suburbs fade into Washington Township farmland, there’s Homestead Metro Park — one of our favorite hidden gems in Ohio. Locals know it for its storybook covered bridge, a train station replica with a vintage caboose, and direct access to the 6.1-mile Heritage Rail Trail. And here’s the big 2026 news: in September 2026, Metro Parks added 333 acres of conservation land to the park — growing it from about 44 acres to roughly 376.
Big News: Homestead Is Growing (2026 Update)
On September 14, 2026, the City of Hilliard announced the transfer of 333 acres of conservation land to Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks. On September 16, Metro Parks confirmed the addition: Homestead Metro Park is now a 376-acre park, and the deal pushes Metro Parks’ protected land in the Big Darby watershed past 10,000 acres.
What comes next:
- Restored prairie and wetland habitat on the new acreage
- New trails connecting visitors to more of the park
- A bigger, better Homestead — while the existing park stays open with all its current amenities
The new acreage won’t open overnight — Metro Parks says the landscape will take several years to restore — but the existing park at 4675 Cosgray Road is open now and worth the trip.
A Park With Railroad Roots
Homestead’s story is pure Ohio. When the railroad through Hilliard fell quiet, locals saw possibility: the corridor became the Heritage Rail Trail — a multi-use path running from Hilliard toward Plain City — and Homestead Park grew up alongside it.
History isn’t a plaque here; it’s something you walk through. The Bradley Station replica honors the railroad era, usually paired with a vintage caboose. Two rustic barns set the homestead mood. And then there’s the star: a postcard-perfect covered bridge that draws photographers from all over central Ohio.
Today the park is part of the Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks system, securing its future as one of the region’s most charming small parks.
Things to Do at Homestead Park
The Covered Bridge
The bridge is the #1 photo spot — golden hour, fall foliage, wedding parties, you name it. Cross it, photograph it, then follow the trail to see the rest of the park.
Trails
- 0.75-mile paved loop through the park — stroller-friendly, dog-friendly (leashed), great for a quick walk or run
- Direct connection to the 6.1-mile Heritage Rail Trail — the real draw for cyclists and long-distance walkers heading toward Plain City
Homestead Lake
A serene 2.5-acre fishing pond, stocked for casual outings. Bring a rod, bring a book, or just watch the herons. An Ohio fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older, per state rules.
Pavilions & Gatherings
- Lakeside Pavilion (reservable): open-air shelter by the pond with fireplaces, grills, picnic tables, power outlets, and a balcony overlooking the water
- Pine Pavilion (first-come, first-served): tables, grills, and a fireplace near restrooms and basketball courts
Reserve the Lakeside Pavilion early through metroparks.net — it books up for spring and summer weekends.
More to Explore
Playgrounds for kids (including an accessible play area), sand volleyball, an amphitheater that hosts community programming, and birdwatching in the quieter corners. Check the Metro Parks program calendar for concerts and events — and if you’re planning around events, browse our month-by-month guide to annual festivals in Ohio.
Plan Your Visit (2026)
- 📍 Address: 4675 Cosgray Road, Hilliard, OH 43026 (Washington Township)
- 🕐 Hours: April 1 – September 30: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM; October 1 – March 31: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- 💰 Cost: Free admission, free parking
- 🐕 Dogs: Welcome on leash
- 📞 Park phone: (614) 216-8859
- 💡 Pro tip: Lots can fill on sunny weekends — go early or try a weekday morning for the quietest experience
Pack smart: fishing gear, a camera, comfortable shoes, a picnic basket, and layers if you’re biking the rail trail — it gets breezy.
Why Homestead Stands Out
Central Ohio has bigger parks, fancier parks, parks with nature centers and zip lines. Homestead’s magic is different: it’s a quiet, country-soul park where history is touchable, the trails invite you onward, and you can hear yourself think. And with the 2026 expansion, this little gem is on its way to becoming one of the region’s great parks. Come now for the covered bridge — come back in a few years for 376 acres of it. Tree lovers should also make time for the champion trees near Lewis Center, a short drive away.
FAQ: Homestead Metro Park
1. Where is Homestead Park located? 4675 Cosgray Road, Hilliard, OH 43026, in Washington Township just northwest of Hilliard proper.
2. What are Homestead Park’s hours? April 1–September 30: 6:30 AM–10 PM. October 1–March 31: 6:30 AM–8 PM. Always confirm on metroparks.net before you go.
3. Is Homestead Park free? Yes — admission and parking are free, like most Central Ohio Metro Parks.
4. Can you fish at Homestead Park? Yes — the 2.5-acre Homestead Lake is a stocked pond popular for casual fishing. Bring your own gear and check Ohio’s fishing license requirements.
5. Does the park connect to the Heritage Rail Trail? Yes — the park’s 0.75-mile paved loop connects directly to the 6.1-mile Heritage Rail Trail toward Plain City.
6. What’s the 2026 expansion news? In September 2026, the City of Hilliard transferred 333 acres of conservation land to Metro Parks, growing Homestead Metro Park to 376 acres. New trails and restored prairie and wetland habitat are coming in the years ahead.
