The Garbry Big Woods Sanctuary is a beautiful 100-acre park with an undisturbed wet beech-maple forest. There is a .7-mile boardwalk loop through this unique area. The Sanctuary is not connected to the Reserve but can be reached by driving a short distance. Each year there is a prolific spring flower display and a colorful autumn show. Many of the different plants and trees are labeled for easy identification. A handicapped accessible boardwalk winds through the woodland habitat helping to preserve the sensitive and rare plant community. To broaden your experience and to help protect this unique natural site, please use the pathways provided and please obey the rules of the Sanctuary. This is the only park that does not allow pets along the boardwalk due to the sensitive plant life. A new small shelter was donated in 2021 by Bill Atkins. The shelter is a first come, first serve and is not reservable.

History

On February 13th, 1981, J. Scott Garbry and his family of Piqua, Ohio deeded the 100-acre Sanctuary to the Miami County Park District.  Prior to this time, the “Big Woods” had been under the stewardship of the Garbry family for over 130 years. In accepting this responsibility, the Park District will, “protect, manage and preserve the site in perpetuity as an area for enjoyable observation of the natural world, leisurely pursuits, and inspirational contemplation.”
 

Activities

• Walking
• Wildlife observation

Natural Features

• 100 AcresWoodlands
• Wild flowers
• Rare plant community

Facilities

• .7 Mile boardwalk loop trail that does not permit pets

Miami County Park District offers many education programs throughout the year.  Check out the program calendar to see what programs are coming up at a Miami County Park near you.