Wallace Lake - Mills Stream Run Reservation

FROM THEIR WEBSITE:

The history: Mill Stream Run Reservation is located in Berea, Middleburg Heights, North Royalton and Strongsville. Long ago nineteenth century communities like Albion, Sanderson's Corners and Slab Hollow sprang up to take advantage of the water power from the east branch of the Rocky River and its tributaries. After the sawmills and grist mills were established, businesses like a basket factory, taverns, blacksmith shops and tailors followed. At Berea, the river cuts through Berea sandstone carving potholes in the stone. Baldwin and Wallace lakes are former quarries that produced some of the finest grindstones in the world. The settlers were not the first to visit; artifacts have been found in the reservation that indicate Native American tribes frequented this area over 8,000 years ago. The reservation includes numerous species of wildlife and plant life, including ferns and wildflowers.

HOURS:
6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

You may want to CALL first to verify all information, since it is seasonal.
The number is: 440.826.1682

COST:

Paddle boat rentals: For a 2-3 person paddle boat, it's $4.00 per half hour. For a 4-5 person paddle boat, it's $8.00 per half hour.

Swimming: FREE

HOW DO I GET THERE?
Wallace Lake is located off Valley Parkway in Mill Stream Run Reservation, south of Bagley Road in Berea.

(because there isn't an exact address, see the trail map for details.)


Our take?

We were pleasantly surprised at this little hidden gem of a place! The swimming looked so fun--it was a nice sized area and had a little beach to play on or lay on! :) We went specifically with paddle boats in mind and headed there. There is a little cafe area (The Quarry Rock Cafe) where you pay for your rental (they have several food options as well).

The actual part of the lake you can go in with your paddle boat wasn't HUGE--but we felt like it was just right for a half hour ride. The water was calm and the scenery is really nice. They have life jackets for even the smallest--my 10 month old baby even got one! :)

We would love to check out the swimming another time, but this place is GREAT--for picnics, swimming, trails, running, biking, boating, fishing...it has it all!