Bank Run Metro Park, now open at 1570 Rohr Road in Lockbourne, has expanded Metro Parks’ offerings by 166 acres. The new site features event facilities and a 100-foot slide.
The park’s event center recently opened, featuring five buildings designed for gatherings of various sizes. Groups can rent the spaces individually or together. Jill Snyder, Metro Parks’ visitor engagement manager, said the available parking can support festivals with 10,000 or more people.
Indoor spaces include two remodeled buildings. River Rock Lodge is an enclosed, climate-controlled venue for up to 99 guests and is designed for meetings, receptions and private events. Hearthstone, a three-season building still under construction, is expected to open for rentals next spring.
For outdoor events, the Grand Shelter can host up to 300 people and includes picnic tables, grills and restrooms. The Flagstone Shelter, recently renovated, seats up to 120 and includes charcoal grills, picnic tables, outlets, lighting, a drinking fountain and restrooms. An open-air stage with electrical access, nearby parking and food truck hookups is also available.
A paved 5-kilometer trail circles the grounds, offering a route for organized runs and walks.
The site was formerly Hoover YMCA Park, known for its large slide. Metro Parks redesigned the slide into a 100-foot-long, 25-foot-high structure with enhanced safety features. The slide, located on the event side of the park, is available during park programs and private events. Staff cover the slide with a tarp when not in use.
A natural area is still under development. The centerpiece—a former rock quarry—will support kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing. The area will also offer space for walking, running and nature activities. Metro Parks expects to open this section later in the summer.