Pennsylvania, Beaver County, Rochester

river mile 25

This is why we do the Ohio River Parks Project! To find hidden gems! On this steaming July afternoon the research team drives along crowded highways, through a struggling town: two chain drug stores, a couple of rehab centers, a Family Dollar store. Lots of dilapidated three and four story buildings. Through the roundabout, down a strange concrete bridge road, turn left past the wastewater treatment plant and — here! At the confluence of the Beaver and the Ohio Rivers. A jewel of a park. Long, narrow, wedged next to a train line, many bridges overhead, a cool respite. Quiet. Trees. Shade, a breeze. Picnic tables, grills, benches facing river, parking facing river, portapotty, informational signs: the perfect riverside park.. Two younger women taking their mid-afternoon exercise walk. A rowing club, several small private marinas at the end. Modest but fulfilling.

Cyclists and paddlers could easily pitch a tent on the manicured grass in this secluded location. Walk up a steep concrete street bridge and one will find drugstores for provisions. There is no formal boat launch, but a paddler easily could pull out here or use the ramps of several upstream Beaver River private clubs.

Next park: Bridgewater Crossing

Subsequent park: Fort McIntosh

Field research July 2018