French Park
French Park Facts

Entrance sign along Section Road. Photo Credit: Tim Carter

Located in the heart of Amberley Village, French Park is the former 275-acre estate of Herbert Greer French who donated the property to Cincinnati in 1943 along with his house.   It is the second largest Cincinnati Park Board property after Mt. Airy Forest. The French House, and the grounds around it, can be rented for special events. Contact the Cincinnati Park Board for details.

The Park is at the intersection of Ridge Road, a historic Indian Trail, and Section Road, on land originally bought by early area settler John Cleves Symmes from the US Congress.   The restored French House is available to rent for wedding receptions, art and other events. Across the driveway is the former caretaker’s cottage that is used as a satellite teaching facility by the Cincinnati Art Academy.

Front of the French House. Photo Credit: Tim Carter

Large meadow areas are nestled inside the wooded perimeter. Several trails and a creek known for fossils, wind through the park. One trail follows closely the outer boundary line of the park.

There are two parts of the park that are undeveloped. One is at the southwest corner of Ridge and Sections Roads. The other is located at the southeastern corner of Ridge and Section Roads extending nearly two-thirds of a mile going east on Section Road towards the city of Silverton.

The hill at the top of French Park offers spectacular views and a shelter house with bathrooms.  Grills and recreation equipment are also available for use. This Park is a favorite with dogs too!