Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve

~ Closed November 15th through November 30th 2024 ~

The Groen Nature Preserve is a gift to the residents of Otsego County and has 764 beautiful acres. Current activities include hiking, biking, equestrian, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing.

Mr. Groen’s deep commitment to the property during his stewardship and the continuation thereof through the Louis M. Groen Nature preserve emanates out of Mr. Groen’s love and respect for nature, animals, and the outdoors.

Mr. Groen is noted as inventing the Filet-O-Fish sandwich for McDonald’s in Cincinnati in 1961. He started Cincinnati’s first McDonald’s franchise and by the time he retired he owned 43 stores throughout Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. In addition, at age 80, Mr. Groen, along with two other individuals entered into a new business venture called Stop Stick, Ltd., which is in the business of producing and selling devices which immobilize motor vehicles by causing their tires to become deflated.

A former lumber camp, this serene preserve still contains remnants of the camp and sawmill, along with natural attributes including rolling hillsides and a pristine lake. Opened to the public in 2012, this lovely park offers both flat and rolling terrain and suits all skill levels.

Click here for a detailed map.