Ottawa Point Picnic Area Overview
- Capacity: 128 people (Parking holds 30 cars)
- Amenities: Fireplace, Charcoal Grills, Horseshoe Pits, Picnic Tables, Swingset, Firepit, Restrooms, Trail Access
- Activities: Picnicking, Family Gatherings, Private Parties
- Reservable: Yes – May through October (daily)
- Fees: $125 Monday – Friday, $200 Saturday, Sunday, Holidays
Ottawa Point Picnic Area Guide
Ottawa Point Picnic Area
Ottawa Point Picnic Area is the most secluded and best-kept secret in the Brecksville Reservation. It is the second largest shelter in the park, holding almost 12 picnic tables, making it perfect for family, private, and work gatherings.
In addition to an ample enclosed shelter space that can hold 75 individuals, two wood-burning fireplaces make it usable all year (although it is only reservable from spring to fall). You’ll also notice a half dozen charcoal grills (not wood-burning) that can be used to cook food, a water fountain, and electricity for any party needs you may have. It has a unisex bathroom, a small swing set, and a large gathering/fire pit area.
Families and kids will love the vast open field space, carving valleys, and nearby well-hidden backcountry waterfalls. Best of all, the Buckeye Trail travels directly through this picnic area, and the Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Campground is located a quick 1/4 mile east.
Alternative Option
The Ottawa Point Picnic Area is a spectacular spot to reserve from spring to fall. If it is too secluded or not accessible enough for your needs, there are numerous other options.
The best alternative option is Oak Grove Picnic Area. This is another shelter that can be reserved in advance for a fee. Like the Ottawa Point Picnic Area, it has a large shelter that can fit over 100 visitors, a large playing field, fireplaces, charcoal grills, bathrooms, and so much more.
It is also near hiking trails like My Mountain Trail and White Oak Trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Ottawa Point Picnic Area is located in the Brecksville Reservation, one mile south of Cleveland Metro Parkway.
Yes, this Picnic Area can be accessed by individuals with disabilities. The parking lot is close to the shelter. The shelter is handicap accessible, but the open field may make it difficult for those with wheelchairs.
You should book this picnic area 3-4 months before summer and early fall reservations. For spring and winter needs, it is first-come, first-served (you can walk up on the day of your need).
There are 15 picnic tables, six charcoal grills, two wood-burning fireplaces, two unisex restrooms, electricity, running water, a small swingset, an open field, and directly next to the Buckeye Trail.
This picnic area accommodates 128 individuals, and a parking lot can hold over 30 vehicles.
You are required to bring your food and beverage. You may use any food vendor you would like. Alcohol is not permitted in the park.
There are no restrictions. Dogs and other animals are allowed in the picnic area.
Yes, Monday – Friday is $125 for the day. Friday – Sunday and holidays are $200 for the day.
It is operational all year, from 6 am – 10 pm.
The facility has six trash bins, several recycling bins, and a large dumpster.
Ottawa Point Picnic Area Virtual Tour
How to Get There (Driving Direction)
The easiest way to get to Ottawa Point Picnic Area (parking lot) is to put it on your phone and GPS.
- If arriving from south of Brecksville, take Brecksville Road to Valley Parkway. Follow Valley Parkway for 1 mile, then take a right onto Cleveland Metro Parkway. Follow this road, which is 1/2 mile, and take a left into the Ottawa Point Picnic Area Driveway.
- If arriving from the bottom of Valley Parkway to the road one mile west. Then, in one mile, take a left onto Cleveland Metro Parkway. Follow this road, which is 1/2 mile, and take a left into the Ottawa Point Picnic Area Driveway.
Learn More About the Brecksville Reservation
While Ottawa Point Picnic Area is the most secluded picnic shelter in the Brecksville Reservation, four other shelters can provide a similar experience with almost all of the same amenities and activities.
- Meadows Picnic Area
- Chippewa Creek Picnic Area
- Oak Grove Picnic Area
- Plateau Picnic Area
- Harriet Keeler Picnic Area
