Francis RecreAcres 11982 Conrey Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249

"Good for walking dogs, riding bikes, playing soccer, or sand volleyball. Has a playground, restrooms, covered picnic area, and for bird watchers a large property with unpaved trails to walk."

"★☆☆☆☆ Popularity ★★☆☆☆ Size/Location ★★★★★ Terrain ★★☆☆☆ Scenery ★★★★★ Accessibility ★★★★★ Amenities ★★★★★ Condition ★★★★★ Safety Date visited: 11/04/2023 As a dedicated member of Great Parks of Hamilton, it's both my duty and privilege to explore the myriad parks and trails within this splendid network. On a crisp and sun-kissed weekend morning, I embarked on a journey to Francis RecreAcres, a hidden gem renowned for its appeal to dog enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. My arrival was met by a sprawling yet strangely vacant parking lot, sparsely punctuated by a few scattered vehicles. It became evident that this park held a special place in the hearts of locals, as I witnessed a procession of early risers, accompanied by their loyal four-legged companions, traversing sections of the trail visible from the lot. I secured a spot near one of the inviting trailheads and ventured into the embrace of the cool autumn breeze and radiant sunshine. The park welcomed its visitors with a treasure trove of amenities, including spacious sports fields, a charming children's playground, and cozy shelters, complete with restroom facilities. As I embarked on my journey, I discovered a well-paved trail that elegantly circled the park, offering the promise of diverse activities – walking, running, cycling, and even accommodating motorized vehicles. This paved pathway boasted a surface virtually devoid of cracks or imperfections. In a curious turn of events, the park suddenly unfolded as a tranquil sanctuary, and I found myself alone on this captivating journey. Save for the occasional passerby walking on the grassy expanse of one of the soccer fields, I remained undisturbed. The park stood at the nexus of residential and industrial areas, with a slender ribbon of woodland serving as a delicate buffer. Amongst the trees, some rose to towering heights, hinting at a remnant of ancient forests that had withstood the encroachment of human civilization – a poignant reminder of nature's resilience in the face of human progress. While the serenity was occasionally interrupted by the distant hum of a nearby highway, it contributed a unique and almost comforting ambient backdrop to the serene soundscape of the autumn woods. The air itself carried the promise of freshness, occasionally tinged with the scent of vehicle exhaust, a subtle reminder of the modern world. Completing my loop, I paused for a brief visit to the men's restroom, which appeared not to have escaped the diligent attention of park maintenance. The lingering aroma of air freshener hung in the air, concealing any hints of staleness, although the urinals bore traces of rust. It was only upon my attempt to wash my hands that I discovered the taps had been turned off for the season. Fortunately, I'd anticipated the need, a precaution borne out of the enduring influence of a recent pandemic, and had a trusty bottle of hand sanitizer tucked away in my car. As I concluded my visit, the park began to stir with the arrival of other visitors. Overall, the park's charm, offering tranquility that's increasingly elusive in our fast-paced world, makes it an inviting destination for individuals of all ages. I would recommend Francis RecreAcres to anyone seeking a respite from the ordinary, a place where nature's serenity takes center stage, offering an opportunity for rejuvenation and reflection."

"Soccer fields are dusty and poorly maintained. Fine for practice, not really acceptable for a game."

"Fun playground with a couple unique climbing structures. Soccer fields. Paved walking paths (where you'll frequently see SPCA dogs on a walk with their volunteers). Restrooms, shelter with picnic benches."

"Great playground! We were here at 945am during the week and had the entire playground to ourselves."