The West Woods, Geauga Park District

The West Woods is a 956-acre park in Russell and Newbury Townships protecting the sandstone ledges of Ansel's Cave, Silver Creek and its watershed, extensive wetlands, and mature forest along ten trails totaling more than eight miles. Operated by Geauga Park District, the property is a wooded, naturally scenic setting for gatherings that call for a rustic backdrop. For private events, the park's main indoor space is the Lewis & Ruth Affelder House, a lodge built in 1955 and donated to the park district in 1994. The house features floor-to-ceiling windows, a stone fireplace, and a patio overlooking the surrounding woods, with a large gathering room downstairs and a small loft above. It seats up to 40 guests and includes free WiFi, a 55" smart TV, and a kitchenette with refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker. The West Woods also offers Deer Run Shelter and Turkey Ridge Shelter, two open-air picnic shelters that each accommodate up to 75 guests and include picnic tables, electrical outlets, a grill, and nearby restrooms — suited to larger outdoor gatherings and reunions.