Turtlecreek

Turtlecreek Township's backcountry roads pass through pastures and farmland dotted with grain silos, offering a vignette of agricultural Ohio. It's the acreage and the country feel that draw many people in, according to local Realtor Mark Regginello with NavX Realty. These large parcels of land have also attracted developers in recent years. As subdivisions come to the community, certain areas have become pockets of suburban living. Yet, rural characteristics still anchor much of the township. It's a place where "kids can run free and be able to have an adventure," Regginello says. Fishing and hunting are go-to activities here, and many people spend time farming. Yet, residents are not far from Lebanon's establishments, and those who drive far enough east into the township will find several bustling attractions, including the Cincinnati Premium Outlets. This multifaceted and changing nature has fostered a multigenerational community. "The gentleman across the street is 92 years old, and on either side of him are his two sons," Regginello says, referencing a recent listing. Open landscapes and multiacre lots of farmland define some areas of the township. Having agricultural land "helps with your property taxes since they subsidize that," Regginello says. However, much of the land once used for farming has been transformed into new subdivisions. Most of these newer developments reflect contemporary and New Traditional styles, ranging from $200,000 to $600,000. Areas outside of these communities feature everything from midcentury ranch-styles to custom-built farmhouses. Prices typically range from about $200,000 to around $1 million, depending on the property's size, acreage and condition. Those interested in a custom-built home can purchase a lot for sale, which usually goes for upwards of $100,000. Buyers should be aware that many homes near Turtle Creek receive higher-than-average Flood Factor Scores. "There are numerous ponds behind people's properties," Regginello adds. Children can enroll in the Lebanon City School District. They can attend Bowman Primary, which receives a B rating on Niche. From there, they can head to Donovan Elementary and Berry Intermediate, both of which receive B-plus ratings from Niche. All three of these schools boast a Spanish Immersion Program. In order to encourage biliteracy, the program allows students to take core classes like math and science in Spanish. While the immersion program stops after Berry Intermediate, many students continue learning Spanish at B-plus-rated Lebanon Junior High and B-rated Lebanon High. Students at both schools can participate in sports like basketball and volleyball. The high school also boasts extracurriculars, including American Sign Language, French and film clubs. Turtlecreek Township boasts several chain eateries and the Cincinnati Premium Outlets, which feature 100 stores and establishments like Ahava Coffee House, perfect for a midday pick-me-up. "The outlets are a big draw to the area and add some excitement," local Realtor Angella Layne with NavX Realty says. The township is also home to the Traders World Flea Market. Here, shoppers can peruse over a thousand vendors featuring everything from antiques to fresh produce. The market is even home to a farming tool museum. Regginello says that Miami Valley Gaming is also a large attraction here. For dining out, many residents head to Lebanon. Popular eateries there include the aptly named Breakfast Club Cafe and Broadway Barrel House, known for its classic pub fare and draft beer options. Those who would rather stay in for the night can pick up fresh produce at Black Barn, a local market, or swing by Lebanon's Kroger location for a wider selection of goods. At Armco Park, locals can take peaceful strolls around a lake, which has become a go-to spot among boaters and anglers alike. Some come here to grill out and enjoy picnic lunches with their family and friends. Others come for the park's 18-hole golf course and tennis courts. Soccer players hone their skills at the adjacent Warren County Sports Park at Union Village, which is also popular among baseball, softball and lacrosse players. The park is one of the county's premier locations for youth sports leagues and championship games. Those wanting to practice their aim can check out 22three Firearms Store and Range, which serves many hunters in the community. "There are pockets here where people still like to hunt," Regginello says. The nearby over 3500-acre Caesar Creek State Park allows seasonal goose and waterfowl hunting. Locals also come to the park to cool off in the lake, hike through a wooded valley or enjoy horseback riding opportunities. Farming is central to daily life here, but it was also the foundation for one of the state's largest celebrations, the Warren County Fair. Held in nearby Lebanon, this six-day-long event has become a yearly tradition for many Turtlecreek Township residents. It features classic rides, harness racing and crop shows. The fair also offers several special programs for the kids, including the Junior Fair Sale, where they can learn about livestock shows and receive mentorship through local programs. The adjacent city is also home to the Lebanon Public Library, which hosts smaller gatherings, including book and chess clubs. For other options, many residents come together at local houses of worship, like Solid Rock Church, known for Lux Mundi — a Jesus statue that stretches over 50 feet tall. Public transportation is not easily accessible, so most people here drive to and from work. Interstate 71 can take residents to downtown Cincinnati, which is about 32 miles south and is home to major employers like Procter & Gamble. They can take Interstate 75 to Dayton, which is about 30 miles south and boasts the Premier Health Partners headquarters. There are also closer medical care facilities, like the West Chester Hospital, which is around 15 miles away via I-71. On travel days, residents can hop on I-75 to the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, which is about 45 miles away. Interestingly, the public-use Warren County Airport is within the township, so it's common for residents to hear or see the occasional plane. Outside of this, the community is known for its quiet nature; it also receives a CAP Index crime score of 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.