This 42 acre Nature Preserve, located on State Route 126 in Miami Township, was a gift of Virginia Kelley. She donated the original 21 acres of land to the Park District in honor of her late husband, Walter A. Kelley. The Park District later acquired an additional 21 acres.
Located along the Little Miami River, designated a state and national scenic river, the trails at Kelley Nature Preserve offer several scenic views of the river. Canoe and kayak access is provided making this nature preserve popular among water sport enthusiasts. The trails follow the river then, winds through the forests, and a restored prairie, with many summer blooming wildflowers including Gray-headed Coneflower, Purple Coneflower, Wild Bergamot, and Coreopsis.
It's location along the Little Miami River makes it a great stopping point for many migrating birds. Baltimore and Orchard Orioles, and Indigo Buntings can be found during the summer months, and several species of warblers can be spotted during spring and fall migration.