Headwaters NRC Trust

Why is Headwaters Park special? From our point of view, where else can you find 4 distinct habitats in 70 acres? Who else can can claim the distinction of being the origin of the Mill Creek Flood of 1915? How many other Erie County Parks are within a migration path of both birds and butterflies? 

We are so fortunate to have this gem right in the center of the county, easily accessible from Interstate 90. Summer is a blast in particular, as we make friends with travelers passing through our region, using Headwaters Park as a relaxing picnic stop and leg-stretch along their journey. We connected with a family from South Dakota that travels through annually to New York and always makes a stop here to play and relax before continuing. They loved meeting Lt. Dan, our ambassador Eastern Box Turtle this year.

What do the children think? We host multiple school groups throughout the year, offering environmental programming and hikes, utilizing the Park as a teaching tool for forestry, wildlife, soils, and aquatics. According to one 3rd grader this year "I learned so much and I will never forget about the trip I had. I loved playing in the creek. But the best part was the baby fawn. Headwaters Park was the best trip ever." -Joey

Headwaters offers so much to the community, from informal hikes and self-guided activities to Tails-N-Trails dog events, Eco-Wellness events, and native species walks such as wildflowers and mushroom explorations. We welcome meeting our patrons and work year-round to offer a natural location that is both adventure and relaxing, depending upon your intent during your visit. In 2025 we are expanding our park to include a Pocket Park! This small parklet will be next to our building, ADA accessible, and offering information about conservation practices and demonstration areas.

In our efforts to support the community, we are asking for your support! Help us keep programming, summer internships, and community projects moving forward. According to Ruth, one of our regular patrons with her companions Charlee and Lando, "I love Headwaters Park. Over the years I have walked KC, Wesley, Megan, and now Charlee and Lando. Several trail options are available, from a short walk on the Creekside Trail to a more meandering one from the top of the Park, through a beautiful trail through the woods on the Overlook Trail."

There is always a reason to get away and take time for a visit at Headwaters!

- Joey, 3rd grade