Shaw Woods, Working Lands Park
Activities
Park Activities: cross-country skiing, hiking, horseback riding, nature & historic appreciation, picnicking, primitive camping
Pro Tip: Shaw Woods can be muddy, boots are a good idea if it has been wet out!
Amenities
- 1 reservable campsite for Buckeye Trail hikers-Contact the Park District at (330) 297-7728 or by email; download camping permit*
*must be submitted at least 2 weeks before the scheduled camp time - Information Kiosk
- 30-car gravel parking lot for cars, plus oversized lot for trucks and horse trailers
- Restrooms (non-flush toilets)
Special Notices
No bicycles or motor vehicles
Please remove horse manure before leaving the park
Portage Park District Rules and Regulations
Trails
Trail Icon | Trail Name | Miles | Surface Type | Rating | Description |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Buckeye Loop | .69 | natural | 2 | A natural surface trail into the park and through wooded areas. This section is part of the Buckeye Trail, primitive campsite spur located off this trail. | |
Meander Trail | .75 | natural | 3 | A natural surface trail through wooded area and wetlands including the West Branch of the Mahoning River and streams. Includes some boardwalks and natural water crossings for horses. | |
Pinery Trail | .39 | natural | 3 | Natural surface trail looping through wooded area connecting to Meader and Sugarbush Trails. | |
Sugarbush Trail | .47 | natural | 3 | Natural surface trail looping through wetlands and back to Pinery or Meander Trails. Views of the West Branch of the Mahoning River and includes boardwalks and natural water crossings for horses. |
History & Resources
The 145-acre property was originally acquired by Douglas and Virginia Shaw several years ago with the intention of eventually donating it to the Portage Park District for permanent conservation and the enjoyment of all. Virginia completed the donation in late 2014 after the passage of the Park District’s first-ever funding levy that ensured the District’s ability to improve and manage the property. The property features mature woods, high-quality wetlands, headwater streams and the West Branch of the Mahoning River, upstream of West Branch State Park. Just over 3 miles of trails in this Phase I development are open for horseback riding and hiking, cross country skiing and simply enjoying the beauty of nature. In keeping with Virginia’s vision to also showcase land management practices for private conservation land owners, the Park District will continue to manage the forest for select timber harvest along with other agroforestry opportunities such as cultivating native fruit trees and shrubs, mushrooms, nuts, etc. Future educational programs will aim to encourage and inspire others to manage their lands in balance with nature to yield multiple benefits.
Photo Gallery