Mitchell Memorial Forest

Mitchell Memorial Forest is well maintained, without being over maintained. Trees that have fallen across any trail, (but are too big to move,) have been cut out of the way. Trash cans have been placed around the grounds. A nice fishing pond is situated near the front of the park.
There is a play structure for children. The structure looks to be relatively new. There is a fresh layer of rubber chips to help cousin any falls. A set of bathrooms are not far from the play structure. They was still a «closed for the season,» sign up so I can’t rate the bathrooms.
Wood Duck Trail is a nice escape. We were the only people not walking their dog, on the trail. Many tall trees. I can’t wait until later this spring/​summer to see all the trees with their leaves. A couple of benches are along the path. We walked by a nice duck pond and stream.
After 2 hours, we still had more park to explore. Both kids were worn out after walking around the lake, playing on the play structure, and exploring Wood Duck Trail, so we decided to call it a day. My son asked if we could come back another day. He wants to see the rest of the park. So do I.

The Wood Duck Nature Trail here is my escape. It’s very well maintained and pretty: there’s a stream going through, a lake /​wetlands alongside, and a variety of trees. Also, it’s not too intense (I don’t leave dripping with sweat) nor too easy (there’s a hill that definitely gets my heart pumping). I usually do 2 – 3 loops, depending on how much stress I have to walk off ;-)
There is a shorter, paved path around the lake that my mom likes to walk. And there are always several fishermen along the sides.
I’ve never been on the mountain bike trail but have heard it is great as well — certainly a unique feature of the park.

I grew up in the woods, near the woods, and loving the woods. In a small town in the Northwest, that’s what you become accustomed to.
Here in Cincinnati, much more of a concrete jungle, I’ve adapted. That said, a walk with a canopy of vegetation above me is VERY welcomed. Hearing birds, seeing a few ducks, and relaxing on a bench here or there made for a great first day of spring.
One complaint, which has nothing to do with the forest, is a big BOO to the engines revving from afar– race track, hillbillies in their natural habit, whatever– I can hardly hold this lovely space accountable for people who waste fuel and drive around circles for fun, but it was quite annoying.
I had no idea this park was near us and look forward to many more weekends spend wandering and maybe trying out the picnic area or bike trails.
The trees are smaller and the path only about a mile (the bike is around 8 miles), but this hidden park really hit the spot for me.
It doesn’t look to be too packed, though we ran into plenty of people. It’s well spaced with trails, playground areas, shelters, picnic areas– all walkable, but not flat and crowded.
I’ll update as we see more, but this was a great find. Thank you Hamilton County Parks. This is why you get such good reviews.

Mitchell Memorial Forest is, by far, my favorite Hamilton County park.
Situated in a pretty remote spot between the western suburbs of Cleves and Grandview, this park is about as quiet as you are going to find.
Sure, this park lacks some of the features of other county parks. There is no Frisbee golf or nature center. There’s no paddle boats or snack bar. But, what it lacks in amenities, it certainly makes up in charm.
Near the entrance, there is a small lake open to fishing. There is a short paved trail around it, and it’s a great place to spot wildlife and shoot the breeze with the old-​timers who are always out fishing. Nearby, there is the «Wood Duck» nature tail. It’s a nice, short hike if you are pressed for time.
Further down the road, there is a small playground. A bigger one would be nice, but this one is clean and in good shape. My kids manage to entertain themselves there just fine.
Towards the rear of the park, you’ll find my favorite area. The «Tall Pines» picnic area is absolutely stunning, aptly named for the slender, tall pine trees that cover it. Even in the heart of summer, you will almost never have to fight for a grill here. Across from the picnic area, there is a large brushy field where, if you are lucky, you can watch deer graze. We’ve had late summer cookouts here a lot, and the deer never disappoint. Also in this area is the entrance to a 7.8 miles mountain bike trail. While best suited for bikes, this trail is also open to hiking. It offers a few different length loops and provides a great chance to explore the woods around the park.
Overall, this is a great park to head to if you’re trying to escape from the hustle of city-​life. You are surrounded by nature, and the ranger staff here is extremely friendly and accommodating. It’s a great place to hike, have a picnic, or just bask in the sun!