Our Mission
Enriching people’s lives and enhancing our region by inspiring use, preservation and support of Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
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Sunrise on Daisies by Steve Ash for the 2025 CVNP calendar.
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Celebrate Summer
Next week marks the summer solstice (June 20). Welcome the season with a visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) and join us for summertime events!
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Welcoming Greg Peckham as Our Next President & CEO
Earlier this week, we were pleased to announce the appointment of Greg Peckham as our next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 21, 2025. He succeeds Deb Yandala, who is transitioning out of the role after 32 years with the organization on July 3, 2025. Peckham brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, community development, and environmental stewardship, making him an ideal leader to guide the Conservancy into its next chapter.
Peckham has dedicated his career to developing and implementing initiatives that improve social, economic, and environmental conditions in diverse communities. Most recently, he served as the Executive Director of LAND studio in Cleveland, Ohio, where he managed a talented team that consistently delivered successful programs and projects designed to elevate the quality of life for local residents. Under his leadership, LAND studio played a central role in major civic projects such as the upcoming transformation of Irishtown Bend, a new 25-acre greenspace reclamation project along the Cuyahoga River.
“Greg’s passion for environmental stewardship and community development aligns perfectly with our mission,” said Karyn Sullivan, Conservancy board chair. “We are confident his leadership will bring transformative growth and further strengthen our connection to the park and its visitors.”
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Celebrate CVNP's 50th Anniversary with Pizza & Beer
Boom’s Pizza is celebrating CVNP’s 50th anniversary with their CVNP 50 Pie! An ode to the wild ramps of CVNP, the pizza features ramp “pesto,” garlic cream, roasted mushrooms, garlic confit, basil, red onion, and a blend of mozzarella, Romano, and fontina cheeses.
The CVNP 50 Pie is available at Boom’s through mid-July. Round up at checkout to support the Conservancy for CVNP!
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Thirsty Dog Brewing Company is honoring the park's milestone, too! Their new brew—Kendall Lake Kölsch—is available at the Thirsty Dog TapHouse in Akron. With each purchase of a six-pack, $1 comes back to the Conservancy for CVNP!
And enjoy the beer at local Applebee’s restaurants as well as with your Boom’s Pizza CVNP 50 Pie anniversary special.
Kendall Lake Kölsch is also available at select Acme, Heinen’s, Buehler’s, and Giant Eagle stores.
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Summer Solstice Yoga
Celebrate the start of astronomical summer with sun salutations and more! On June 23, join Ayurveda-inspired yoga Instructor Kim Scott Sowinski, 500 RYT, for an all-levels summer solstice yoga practice outdoors at our beautiful Hines Hill Campus.
We'll immerse ourselves in nature under oak and maple trees, using our senses to embrace the moment. Enjoy refreshments following yoga while socializing with your kula (yoga community).
This event is part of the Nature Rx program. For more details on the program, please visit www.forcvnp.org/naturerx.
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Join us in July for Rhythm on the River
Get ready for good vibes! On Sunday, July 13, join us for Rhythm on the River, our free, family-friendly concert series at Howe Meadow. Together, let’s celebrate 50 years of CVNP!
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First, Shaw High School Marching Band kicks off the fun. Then, Carlos Jones and the P.L.U.S. Band takes the stage, bringing their unique brand of high energy “put yer dancin’ shoes on” reggae.
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Meet us in the meadow for great music, food trucks, field games for kids of all ages, and a free 360° photo booth!
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Gates Open at 2:00PM | Music Begins at 3:30PM
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CVTC volunteers work on the Stanford Connector Trail.
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Volunteers Make a Difference on National Trails Day
On National Trails Day (June 7), Cuyahoga Valley Trails Council (CVTC) volunteers worked on several projects as well as enjoyed a hike to learn about trail construction and the CVTC renovations to those trails.
The projects included the following:
- The new Stanford Trail reroute to eliminate hiking traffic up the main drive of Stanford House. The new trail connection enhances the hiking experience and provides more privacy to guests.
- Installing a split rail fence.
- Removing a logjam in the creek that diverts high water onto trail.
Thank you, CVTC volunteers. Your work is truly appreciated!
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Advocacy Corner
Our team is keeping a close eye on the federal budget as Congress begins the annual appropriations process. Parks rely on people who care—people like you—to stay informed and speak up.
Here’s How You Can Help
Educate Yourself:
- Learn how the federal budget process works and how it affects public lands.
- As things currently stand, the President's budget proposes a $1.2 billion cut to the National Park Service (NPS). The bulk of proposed changes would involve the transfer of some NPS-managed sites to states and a funding cut to the Historic Preservation Fund.
- Congress has begun work on the annual appropriations process, which determines funding for the upcoming 2026 fiscal year. They will use President Trump's proposed budget as a starting point, which can be found here.
Stay Informed:
- Follow updates on the appropriations process and proposed changes to park funding.
Raise Your Voice:
- The Conservancy for CVNP stands ready to support our park partner, but continued federal support is essential to preserve CVNP for future generations. As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, we urge Congress to fully fund NPS and uphold the legacy of our national parks with the resources needed to preserve them into the future.
- How can you help? Please email or call your Members of Congress and share why national parks matter to you! You can use the template below to reach out:
“As your constituent, I urge you to fully fund the National Park Service in the upcoming appropriations process. Our national parks need sufficient resources to protect natural and historic areas, support local economies, and ensure safe, meaningful experiences for all visitors. I encourage you to strengthen funding beyond levels proposed in the president’s budget, upholding the legacy of our national parks with the resources needed to preserve them into the future.”
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Make Memories at Summer Camp
Parents, there's still time to enroll your kids in our fun nature-based summer camps. Camp provides kids with opportunities to explore nature, learn, play, and make lasting memories!
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Junior Ranger Day Camp
Ages 6-12
Week 1: July 21-25
Week 2: July 28-Aug. 1
Daily drop off at 8:45am. Pick up at 3:00pm.
*Cost: $290 per week
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Crooked River Exploration Camp
Ages 6-12
July Session (July 16-18)
August Session (Aug. 13-15)
Daily drop off at 9:00am. Pick up at 3:00pm.
*Cost: $130 per camp session
Note: CREC is focused on serving the Old Brooklyn neighborhood of Cleveland.
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Garden Camp Day Camp 2025
Ages 8-12
Camp runs Aug. 4-6.
Daily drop off at 8:45am. Pick up at 3:00pm.
Cost: Free
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To learn more about each of these summer camps, visit our webpage or CampBrain. To register, simply set up a CampBrain account or use an existing login!
*Financial aid is available for Junior Ranger Day Camp and Crooked River Exploration Camp. The financial aid application can be found on our webpage or accessed here.
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Thank You to Mustard Seed Market & Café
We're grateful to Mustard Seed Market & Café for including us in their April 26 Earth Day Birthday celebration, recognizing both Earth Day and 44 years of business!
We appreciate their generosity in donating five percent of that day's sales—more than $4,500—to our mission of enriching people’s lives and enhancing our region by inspiring use, preservation and support of CVNP.
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Conservancy Retail Stores
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Father’s Day is just days away on June 15th! Celebrate Dad with unique finds from Trail Mix Peninsula. From CVNP merch to handcrafted goods and local foods, we have gifts sure to delight Dad!
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By shopping through the Conservancy’s online store and at our retail locations, you’re supporting local small businesses & artists — plus, proceeds support CVNP programs!
Become a Conservancy member and you'll regularly receive 15% off your purchases, too (exclusions apply)!
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Stay in Ohio's National Park
Book the ultimate family vacation in the heart of CVNP at historic Stanford House. Have adventures on the trails, rails, and river. And with the Towpath Trail at your doorstep and stunning Brandywine Falls just a hike away, fun is right around the corner!
The house sleeps up to 30 people and includes a cozy living room, large dining area, and self-service kitchen. Enjoy evenings around the outdoor fire circle or a cookout on the family-sized charcoal grill. And don't worry, we've got Wi-Fi, heating, and air conditioning covered too.
Tip: Book weekdays to avoid crowds. Reserve now and enjoy a 25% discount (applied at checkout) on your summer stay!
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Gallery Exhibition:
Nature Includes You
Friday - Sunday | 11:00am - 3:00pm
Exhibition open through Aug. 3
Visit The Gallery to experience Nature Includes You. This photography exhibition explores the rich relationships that people of color have with nature in Northeast Ohio, past and present.
INFO ⟩⟩
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CVNP Bird Walk
Saturday, June 14 | 7:30am - 10:00am
Volunteer Naturalist Dwight Chasar leads a bird walk along the 2.2-mile unpaved, rocky Ledges Trail. Search for nesting northern species such as the winter wren, Acadian flycatcher, and black-throated green warbler. Meet at Ledges Shelter parking lot.
INFO ⟩⟩
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Cuyahoga Valley Farmers Market
Saturday, June 14 | 9:00am - 12:00pm
The farmers market offers food and goods from local farms, food producers, artists, and makers. Experience live music every week, cooking demos & tastings of what’s in season, and activities for all ages!
Location: Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Rd, Peninsula
INFO ⟩⟩
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Volunteer: Adopt-a-Trail
Saturday, June 14 | 9:00am - 12:00pm
Adopt-a-Trail volunteers help park staff maintain safe and well-groomed trails. They participate in trail "sweeps" by picking up litter, trimming branches, clearing culverts, and reporting trail conditions on their adopted trails.
INFO ⟩⟩
Additional date: June 18
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Invasive Plant Removal Drop-In
Saturday, June 21 | 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Are you looking for a way to get involved in CVNP? Join us for an invasive plant removal drop-in to improve habitat for native plants and wildlife! Drop-ins are a great opportunity for both first-time volunteers and veteran volunteers to get involved in their national park.
REGISTRATION & INFO ⟩⟩
Additional dates: June 26; July 10, 19, 24; Aug. 14, 16, 28
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Topography
Saturday, June 21 | 6:30pm - 11:00pm
You’re invited to Topography as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of CVNP. Join us for this extraordinary celebration with cocktails, twilit trails, gourmet dining and campfires beneath the stars! Proceeds go toward the Trails Now Fund, which provides crucial funding for trail maintenance, visitor amenities and new trailheads within CVNP.
TICKETS & INFO ⟩⟩
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Summer Solstice Yoga
Monday, June 23 | 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Celebrate the official start of astronomical summer with sun salutations and more! Join Ayurveda-inspired yoga instructor Kim Scott Sowinski, 500 RYT, for an all-levels summer solstice yoga practice outdoors at our beautiful Hines Hill Campus.
TICKETS & INFO ⟩⟩
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CVSR:
Community Railroad Safety Day
Tuesday, June 24 | 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Looking for a fun and FREE afternoon for the whole family? Join the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) at Rockside Station for an exciting hands-on, interactive event where kids (and adults!) can get up close with historic train, emergency vehicles, and local heroes!
Rockside Station: 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH
Stay up to date and RSVP on CVSR's Facebook event page.
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Nature Rx:
Growing Through a Women's Mindfulness Retreat
Thursday, June 26 | 6:00pm - 9:00pm &
Friday, June 27 | 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Step away from the noise and into nature with a two-day immersive experience for women with Jessica M. Jurcak, founder, of DiscovHer Wellbeing LLC. A two-day (3 hours each day) journey designed to nourish your inner world and awaken your sense of connection—with yourself, with others, and with the natural world.
REGISTRATION & INFO ⟩⟩
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The Cleveland Orchestra:
2025 Blossom Music Festival
July 3 through Sept. 7
The Cleveland Orchestra has announced its 2025 Blossom Music Festival, promising an unforgettable summer of performances at Blossom Music Center. The festival runs July 3 - Sept. 7 at the Orchestra’s scenic home in CVNP. The concert on Aug. 16 will include a new work by Gabriella Smith, co-commissioned to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the park!
TICKETS & INFO ⟩⟩
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Low Power Happy Hour
Stories Behind the Nature Includes You Exhibit
Wednesday, July 9 | 5:00pm - 7:00pm
CVNP and its partners share the stories behind Nature Includes You, a traveling photo exhibition that explores the rich relationships that people of color have with nature in Northeast Ohio, past and present.
TICKETS & INFO ⟩⟩
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Rhythm on the River:
Carlos Jones and the P.L.U.S. Band
Sunday, July 13 | 3:30pm - 6:00pm
Join us for Rhythm on the River, our free, family-friendly concert series at Howe Meadow. On July 13, see Carlos Jones & the P.L.U.S. Band with opener Shaw High School Marching band! Bring your friends and family for great music, food trucks, field games for kids, and free 360 photo booth.
Gates Open at 2:00pm | Music Begins at 3:30pm
REGISTRATION & INFO ⟩⟩
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Nature Rx Mindful Senses Series
Smell & Taste: Greenfield Berry Farm Tour
Thursday, July 17 | 9:00am - 10:30am
Immerse yourself in the smells and taste of summer with a tour of Greenfield Berry Farm with Daniel Greenfield. Participate in mindfulness activities along the way, including smelling and tasting berries. And with your registration, you'll receive a half-pint of blueberries! This walk is part of the Nature Rx program. To learn more, click here.
TICKETS & INFO ⟩⟩
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Nature Rx Mindfulness Walk
Tuesday, July 22 | 9:00am - 10:00am
Join us for a mindful nature walk to Beaver Marsh led by Dr. Saira Ismail! This walk will lead participants from the Ira Trailhead to the serene Beaver Marsh, which features a boardwalk that meanders through lush vegetation and calm waters. This walk is part of the Nature Rx program. To learn more, click here.
TICKETS & INFO ⟩⟩
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Extraordinary Spaces Open House:
Hines Hill Campus & Happy Days Lodge
Wednesday, July 23 | 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Recently engaged? Join us at our open house to tour Hines Hill Campus and/or Happy Days Lodge. No appointment or registration needed. Drop in when it’s convenient! Our staff will be on hand to answer any questions you have!
INFO ⟩⟩
Additional dates: Aug. 27
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National Park Trivia
Tuesday, July 29 | 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Put your national park knowledge to the test with National Park Trivia night! Bring your team and join us for a fun evening while we learn more and celebrate our love for CVNP and all national parks. Prizes will be awarded for the highest scoring team. Open seating & cash bar.
TICKETS & INFO ⟩⟩
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Rhythm on the River:
Nikki D & The Sisters of Thunder
Sunday, Aug. 10 | 3:30pm - 6:00pm
Join us for Rhythm on the River, our free, family-friendly concert series at Howe Meadow. On Aug. 10, see Nikki D & The Sisters of Thunder with opener Blakk Jakk Dance Collective! Bring your friends and family for great music, food trucks, field games for kids, and free 360 photo booth.
Gates Open at 2:00pm | Music Begins at 3:30pm
REGISTRATION & INFO ⟩⟩
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Connect with Us on Social Media!
What have you spotted along the trails? Share your park pictures with us on social media using the hashtag #forcvnp!
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