About State Parks in Southwest Ohio

All state parks in Ohio are maintained by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). They are also all free to enter, with no parking fees. Across the state, parks vary greatly in their landscape, facilities, and activities. The state parks in southwest Ohio offer a diversity of landscapes.

In this list, we are giving the addresses and contact details, the size of the park, and the facilities and activities available at each location. Please note that if you wish to fish or hunt, a license is usually required.

Map of State Parks in Southwest Ohio

Buck Creek State Park

Situated in Springfield, Clark County

• Address: 1976 Buck Creek Lane, Springfield, Ohio 45502
• Phone: 937-322-5284 | Website | Facebook

John Bryan State Park

Situated in Yellow Springs, Greene County

• Address: 3790 State Rte 370, Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
• Phone: 937-767-1274 | Website | Facebook

Great Council State Park

Situated in Xenia, Greene County

This is a different kind of state park from any of the others in Ohio. Featuring a 12,000-square-foot interpretive center modeled after a historic Shawnee longhouse, this center focuses on the Shawnee culture and their way of life.

• Historic Displays: hands-on displays, bridging past and present.
• Gallery Space: exhibits of artistry and heritage of the region’s cultures.
• Theater Space: watch a short film where modern Shawnee voices illuminate the history of Great Council.
• Living Stream:  learn about how Shawnee people made use of Ohio’s waterways (interactive).
• Blackfish Trail: a half-mile walking trail.

• Address: 1587 US Rte 68 N, Xenia, Ohio 45385
• Phone: 937-502-0057 | Website | Facebook

Sycamore State Park

Situated in Trotwood, Montgomery County

• Address: 4675 N Diamond Mill, Trotwood, Ohio 45426
• Phone: 513-523-6347 | Website | Facebook

Kiser Lake State Park

Situated in Conover, Miami County

• Address: 4889 N State Rte 235, Conover, Ohio 45317
• Phone: 937-843-2717 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Kiser Lake State Park!

Hueston Woods State Park

Situated in College Corner, Preble County

• Address: 6301 Park Office Rd, College Corner, Ohio 45003
• Phone: 513-523-6347 | Website | Facebook

Caesar Creek State Park

Situated in Waynesville, Warren County

• Address: 8570 E State Rte 73, Waynesville, Ohio 45068-9719
• Phone: 513-897-3055 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Caesar Creek State Park!

Cowan Lake State Park

Situated in Wilmington, Clinton County

• Address: 1750 Osborn Rd, Wilmington, Ohio 45177
• Phone: 937-382-1096 | Website | Facebook

Rocky Fork State Park

Situated in Hillsboro, Highland County

• Address: 9800 North Shore Dr, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133
• Phone: 937-393-4284 | Website | Facebook

Adams Lake State Park

Situated in West Union, Adams County

• Address: 14633 State Rte 41, West Union, Ohio 45693
• Phone: 937-393-4284 | Website

East Fork State Park

Situated in Bethel, Clermont County

• Address: 3294 Elklick Rd, Bethel, Ohio 45016
• Phone: 513-734-2730 | Website | Facebook

Stonelick State Park

Situated in Pleasant Plain, Clermont County

• Address: 2895 Lake Dr, Pleasant Plain, Ohio 45162
• Phone: 513-734-4323 | Website | Facebook

Little Miami State Park

Little Miami State Park is a trail corridor. Visitors can traverse the 50-mile linear park by water from the Little Miami State and Natural Scenic River, or on land via the paved Little Miami Scenic Bikeway.

The trail goes from Terrace Park in Hamilton County to Hedges Road in Greene County. The remainder of the trail to Springfield is also paved and operated by Greene County Parks and Trails.

• Address: 39 S Maple St, Waynesville, Ohio 45068
• Phone: 937-382-1096 | Website | Facebook

Ohio State Parks

We have articles on the state parks in the four other regions of Ohio:

• Central
• Northeast
• Northwest
• Southeast

Let’s Visit State Parks in Southwest Ohio!

Have you visited any of the 13 state parks in southwest Ohio? Which is your favorite? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experiences with us.

For more things to do in southwest Ohio, check out our lists of things to do in Cincinnati, Dayton, Mason, Springfield, and Yellow Springs.

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com and we can get it updated.

To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.

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About State Parks in Northwest Ohio

All state parks in Ohio are maintained by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). They are also all free to enter, with no parking fees. Across the state, parks vary greatly in their landscape, facilities, and activities. The state parks in northwest Ohio include a range of landscapes, including the parks on the Lake Erie islands.

In this list, we are giving the addresses and contact details, the size of the park, and the facilities and activities available at each location. Please note that if you wish to fish or hunt, a license is usually required.

Map of State Parks in Northwest Ohio

Kelleys Island State Park

Situated on Kelleys Island, Erie County

• Address: 920 Division St, Kelleys Island, Ohio 43438
• Phone: 419-746-2546 | Website | Facebook

Catawba Island State Park

Situated in Port Clinton, Ottawa County

• Address: 4049 E Moore’s Dock Rd, Port Clinton, Ohio 43452
• Phone: 419-734-4424 | Website

East Harbor State Park

Situated in Lakeside-Marblehead, Ottawa County

• Address: 1169 N Buck Rd, Lakeside-Marblehead, Ohio 43440-9610
• Phone: 419-734-4424 | Website | Facebook

Marblehead Lighthouse State Park

Situated in Marblehead, Ottawa County

• Address: 110 Lighthouse Dr, Marblehead, Ohio 43440
• Phone: 419-734-4424 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Marblehead Lighthouse!

South Bass Island State Park

Situated on South Bass Island, Ottawa County

• Address: 1523 Catawba Ave, South Bass Island, Ohio 43456
• Phone: 419-285-2112 | Website 

Middle Bass Island State Park

Situated on Middle Bass Island, Ottawa County

• Address: 1965 Fox Rd, Middle Bass Island, Ohio 43446
• Phone: 419-285-0311 | Website 

North Bass Island State Park

Situated on North Bass Island, Ottawa County

North Bass Island is mainly undeveloped and is only accessible by private boat, charter, or aircraft. Boating, fishing, and hunting are available activities, and moors are available.

Camping is available, and there is the newly refurbished Lake House, a 4-bedroom rental for up to 12 guests.

The island is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and birders.

• Address: North Bass Island, Isle St George, Ohio 43456
• Phone: 419-609-4124 | Website 

Oak Point State Park

Located on South Bass Island, Ottawa County

• Address: Bayview Ave, Put-in-Bay, Ohio 43456
• Phone: 419-285-2112 | Website

Maumee Bay State Park

Situated in Oregon, Lucas County

• Address: 1400 State Park Rd, Oregon, Ohio 43616
• Phone: 419-836-7758 | Website | Facebook

Harrison Lake State Park

Situated in Fayette, Fulton County

• Address: 26246 Harrison Lake Rd, Fayette, Ohio 43521
• Phone: 419-237-2593 | Website | Facebook

Mary Jane Thurston State Park

Situated in McClure, Henry County

• Address: 1466 State Route 65, McClure, Ohio 43534
• Phone: 419-832-7662 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Mary Jane Thurston State Park!

Independence Dam State Park

Situated in Defiance, Defiance County

• Address: 27722 County Rd 424, Defiance, Ohio 43512
• Phone: 419-237-2593 | Website | Facebook

Van Buren State Park

Situated in Van Buren, Hancock County

• Address: 12259 Township Rd 218, Van Buren, Ohio 45889
• Phone: 419-832-7662 | Website | Facebook

Lake Loramie State Park

Situated in Minster, Auglaize County

• Address: 4401 Ft Loramie Swanders Rd, Minster, Ohio 45865
• Phone: 937-295-2011 | Website | Facebook

Grand Lake St Marys State Park

Situated in St Marys, Auglaize County

• Address: 834 Edgewater Dr, St Marys, Ohio 45885
• Phone: 419-394-3611 | Website | Facebook

Ohio State Parks

Check out our other regional lists of Ohio state parks:

• Central
• Northeast
• Southeast
• Southwest

Let’s Visit State Parks in Northwest Ohio!

Have you visited any of the 15 state parks in northwest Ohio? Which is your favorite? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experiences with us.

For more things to do in northwest Ohio, check out our lists of things to do in Lima, Findlay, Sandusky, Toledo, and Port Clinton.

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com and we can get it updated.

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About State Parks in Central Ohio

All state parks in Ohio are maintained by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). They are also all free to enter, with no parking fees. Across the state, parks vary greatly in their landscape, facilities, and activities. The state parks in central Ohio are often found in urban areas.

In this list, we are giving the addresses and contact details, the size of the park, and the facilities and activities available at each location. Please note that if you wish to fish or hunt, a license is usually required.

Map of State Parks in Central Ohio

Buckeye Lake State Park

Situated in Millersport, Fairfield County

• Address: 2871 Liebs Island Rd, Millersport, Ohio 43046
• Phone: 740-527-4218 | Website | Facebook

A.W. Marion State Park

Situated in Circleville, Pickaway County

• Address: 7317 Warner-Huffer Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
• Phone: 740-869-3124 | Website | Facebook

Madison Lake State Park

Situated in London, Madison County

• Address: 4860 E Park Dr, London, Ohio 43140
• Phone: 740-869-3124 | Website

Deer Creek State Park

Situated in Mt Sterling, Madison County

• Address: 20635 State Park Rd 20, Mt Sterling, Ohio 43143-9501
• Phone: 740-869-3124 | Website | Facebook

Alum Creek State Park

Situated in Delaware

• Address: 3615 S Old State Rd, Delaware, Ohio 43015
• Phone: 740-548-4631 | Website | Facebook

Delaware State Park

Situated in Delaware

• Address: 5202 US Highway 23 N, Delaware, Ohio 43015-9714
• Phone: 740-363-4561 | Website | Facebook

Mt. Gilead State Park

Situated in Mt. Gilead, Morrow County

• Address: 4353 State Route 95, Mt Gilead, Ohio 43338
• Phone: 419-946-1961 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Mt Gilead State Park!

Indian Lake State Park

Situated in Lakeview, Logan County

• Address: 13156 State Route 235 N, Lakeview, Ohio 43331
• Phone: 937-843-2717 | Website | Facebook

Ohio State Parks

Check out our other regional lists of Ohio state parks:

• Northeast
• Northwest
• Southeast
• Southwest

Let’s Visit State Parks in Central Ohio!

Have you visited any of the 8 state parks in northeast Ohio? Which is your favorite? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experiences with us.

Although central Ohio is quite urbanized, there are many places to lose yourself and step out of the city for a short time. We recommend Hayden Falls in Dublin, Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville, Blacklick Woods Canopy Walk in Reynoldsburg, Highbanks Metro Park in Lewis Center, and Slate Run Metro Park in Canal Winchester.

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com and we can get it updated.

To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.

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About State Parks in Northeast Ohio

All state parks in Ohio are maintained by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). They are also all free to enter, with no parking fees. Across the state, parks vary greatly in their landscape, facilities, and activities. The state parks in northeast Ohio have a range of landscapes, including heavily forested areas, wetlands, and coastal zones with many trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

In this list, we are giving the addresses and contact details, the size of the park, and the facilities and activities available at each location. Please note that if you wish to fish or hunt, a license is usually required.

Map of State Parks in Northeast Ohio

Malabar Farm State Park

Situated in Lucas, Richland County

• Address: 4050 Bromfield Rd, Lucas, Ohio 44843
• Phone: 419-892-2784 | Website | Facebook

Mohican State Park

Situated in Loudonville, Ashland County

• Address: 3116 State Rte 3, Loudonville, Ohio 44842
• Phone: 419-994-5125 | Website | Facebook

Findley State Park

Situated in Wellington, Lorain County

• Address: 25381 State Rte 58, Wellington, Ohio 44090
• Phone: 440-647-0534 | Website | Facebook

Portage Lakes State Park

Situated in Akron, Summit County

• Address: 5031 Manchester Road, Akron, Ohio 44319
• Phone: 330-644-2220 | Website | Facebook

Wingfoot Lake State Park

Situated in Mogadore, Summit County

• Address: 993 Goodyear Park Blvd, Mogadore, Ohio 44260
• Phone: 330-628-4720 | Website | Facebook

Quail Hollow State Park

Situated in Hartville, Stark County

• Address: 13480 Congress Lake Ave, Hartville, Ohio 44632
• Phone: 330-477-3552 | Website

West Branch State Park

Situated in Ravenna, Portage County

• Address: 5570 Esworthy Rd, Ravenna, Ohio 44266
• Phone: 330-235-0030 | Website | Facebook

Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park

Situated in Nelson Township, Portage County

• Address: State Route 282, Nelson Township, Ohio 44231
• Phone: 330-235-0030 | Website

Punderson State Park

Situated in Newbury, Geauga County

• Address: 11755 Kinsman Rd, Newbury, Ohio 44065
• Phone: 440-564-2279 | Website | Facebook

Headlands Beach State Park

Situated in Mentor, Lake County

• Address: 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, Ohio 44060
• Phone: 440-466-8400 | Website | Facebook

Geneva State Park

Situated in Geneva, Ashtabula County

• Address: 4499 Padanarum Rd, Geneva, Ohio 44041
• Phone: 440-466-8400 | Website

Pymatuning State Park

Situated in Andover, Ashtabula County

• Address: 6100 Pymatuning Lake Rd, Andover, Ohio 44003
• Phone: 440-261-4551 | Website | Facebook

Mosquito Lake State Park

Situated in Cortland, Trumbull County

• Address: 1439 State Rte 305, Cortland, Ohio 44410
• Phone: 330-637-2856 | Website | Facebook

Lake Milton State Park

Situated in Lake Milton, Mahoning County

• Address: 16801 Mahoning Ave, Lake Milton, Ohio 44429
• Phone: 330-235-0030 | Website

Beaver Creek State Park

Situated in East Liverpool, Columbiana County

• Address: 12021 Echo Dell Rd, East Liverpool, Ohio 43920-9719
• Phone: 330-385-3091 | Website | Facebook

Guilford Lake State Park

Situated in Lisbon, Columbiana County

• Address: 6835 E Lake Rd, Lisbon, Ohio 44432
• Phone: 330-222-1712 | Website

Jefferson Lake State Park

Situated in Richmond, Jefferson County

• Address: 501 Township Rd 261A, Richmond, Ohio 43944
• Phone: 330-222-1712 | Website

Ohio State Parks

Check out our other regional lists of Ohio state parks:

• Central
• Northwest
• Southeast
• Southwest

Let’s Visit State Parks in Northeast Ohio!

Have you visited any of the 17 state parks in northeast Ohio? Which is your favorite? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experiences with us.

For more outdoor fun, check out Highbanks Metro Park, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, and Glen Helen Nature Preserve.

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com and we can get it updated.

To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.

The post State Parks in Northeast Ohio appeared first on Visit Ohio Today.

June 5, 2025 @ 12:00 pm – June 7, 2025 @ 10:00 pm

The Hookahville Music Festival is held at Roost on the River in Newark in early June, with a full line-up of live music.

This music festival is a firm favorite among live music lovers!

Starting at 12 noon on Thursday, the festival opens at 10 am on Friday and Saturday. Camping is available. Basic camping is available to everyone with a ticket, visitors can upgrade to camp-by-car.

The organizers have deals with some local hotels also, when booking, use the codes shown on the Event Info page of their website.

Visitors may bring food and alcohol (no glass) into the concerts and there are food vendors on site.

The post Hookahville Music Festival appeared first on Visit Ohio Today.

May 16, 2025 @ 6:00 pm – May 17, 2025 @ 11:30 pm

The Hamler Country Fest is held at the Hamler Community Park in Henry County, northwest Ohio over two evenings in May.

A celebration of country music, this festival has eight acts, four performances each evening.

Saturday’s event starts earlier, with gates opening at 4:30 pm and closing at 12:30 am.

There is also a signed memorabilia auction on both evenings. Some of the acts are staples at this event, returning year after year, others are new to the stage here.

The setting is under-roof with open seating, so bring your own lawn chairs. Food and beverages will be available onsite.

Two nights of great music and fun! Tickets are available online, where a camping package is also available.

The post Hamler Country Fest appeared first on Visit Ohio Today.

About Portsmouth

Portsmouth is the county seat of Scioto County, with rugged, beautiful landscapes on the Western Allegheny Plateau.

Neighborhoods include Sciotoville, sometimes known as East Portsmouth, and the Boneyfiddle District that is a few blocks west of downtown Portsmouth.

Portsmouth is a warm and welcoming city that offers a variety of things to do. We are taking a look at some of the best here.

Map of Things to Do in Portsmouth

Explore Scioto Welcome Center

Before you visit anywhere in Portsmouth, it is worth stopping by the Welcome Center where you can get information, guidebooks and leaflets about things to do and places to visit in the area for your particular requirements. Be sure to enjoy your stay by stopping by here!

• Address: 342 2nd Street, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
• Phone: 740-353-1116 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Shawnee State Park

Located in the Appalachian foothills near the Ohio River, the 1,095-acre Shawnee State Park was once the hunting grounds for Native American Shawnee tribes.

Set within the 63,000-acre Shawnee State Forest, the scenic trail system offers a variety of options for nature lovers. There are two lakes and access to the Ohio River.

Activities and Facilities include:

• Address: 4404 State Route 125, West Portsmouth, Ohio 45663
• Phone: 740-858-6652 | Website | Facebook | Instagram
• Check out our article about Shawnee State Park!

Photo credits: Cindy Gordon of VisitOhioToday.com

Shawnee State Park Lodge

Shawnee State Park Lodge is in Shawnee State Park and it is an excellent choice for couples or families, with a variety of room accommodations and two restaurants on-site.

• Address: 4404B State Route 125, West Portsmouth, Ohio 45663
• Phone: 740-858-6621 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our review of Shawnee State Park Lodge!

The Mural Project

The Mural Project is a series of artworks on the floodwall that protects Portsmouth from the Ohio River. This wall is 20 feet high and 2,090 feet along Front Street in the Boneyfiddle District.

Painting began in 1993, and all the art has been produced by artist Robert Dafford. This ongoing project depicts the history of Portsmouth and the surrounding areas for the last two centuries.

Most of the works have a 3-dimensional effect, making viewers feel they can step right into the scene!

• Address: 429 Front St, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
• Phone: 740-353-7647 | Website | Facebook

Photo credits: Jaci Starkey on Flickr

Candyland Children’s Museum

The Happy Pot

This is a great fun family time experience! Paint your own pottery from a selection of pottery pieces. Learn about different glazes and techniques to decorate your pot.

There are frequent special painting events hosted here, such as holiday-themed sessions (like Bunny Ears Wine and Canvas), and workshops with guest artists.

Available for individual or group visits. Booking is available online, the facility is open Thursday through Sunday.

• Address: 522 2^nd St, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
• Phone: 740-370-0193 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Otway Bridge

Photo credits: Cindy Gordon of VisitOhioToday.com

Otway is a little northwest of Portsmouth – about 20 miles, 30 minutes by car. The bridge is the last remaining covered bridge in Scioto County.

Built in 1874, this historic covered bridge is not only a testament to the architectural styles of the past but also a beloved symbol of the area’s rich heritage. It was fully restored in 2014.

During the holiday season, Otway Bridge is adorned with lights and seasonal decorations. In December there is the ‘Light of the Bridge’ parade and drive-thru. Something everyone can take part in, decorate your vehicle to join in the parade or even pull a float!

• Address: 341 Curtis Smith Rd, Otway, Ohio 45657
• Phone: 740-727-5754 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Otway Bridge!

White Gravel Mines

Photo credits: Cindy Gordon of VisitOhioToday.com

White Gravel Mines in Minford are just a short distance northeast of Portsmouth – about 14 miles, 20 minutes by car. This is not just a wander through crystal caves, it is a complete production!

With two annual events, The Christmas Cave and The Easter Cave, this free-to-visit destination tells stories through lights and displays. The Christmas Cave tells the story of the birth of Jesus, and the Easter Cave tells the story of the life of Jesus.

The journey through the cave is on a path of approximately ¾ of a mile and will take around 45 minutes.

• Address: 4007 White Gravel McDaniel Road, Minford, Ohio 45653
• Phone: 740-820-6161 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about White Gravel Mines Christmas Caves!

Deadbolt Escape Rooms and Mysteries

With a choice of six rooms, fans of this popular pastime can have great fun here! Each room has a one-hour time limit. The location is an abandoned historic shoe factory in the Boneyfiddle District of Portsmouth.

The rooms include Murder at Boddy Mansion, Precinct 740, and Castle Dracula. Book online, where you will need to sign a waiver. Gift cards are also available online.

• Address: 309 Jefferson St, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
• Phone: 740-354-2658 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Southern Ohio Axe Throwing

Axe throwing is another popular pastime these days. It may sound like a dangerous day out, but it really isn’t. Your party will have guidance throughout your visit, and you will be taught how to throw an axe into the target.

Children must be over the age of 8, and no open-toed shoes should be worn. Online booking is necessary.

Southern Ohio Axe Throwing also has a location in Chillicothe.

• Address: 412 2nd Street, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
• Phone: 740-370-1966 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Oddfellows

Photo credits: Cindy Gordon of VisitOhioToday.com

Oddfellows is an eatery with a difference – sure, the food is great, but there are also four duckpin bowling lanes and ten arcade games. There is a bittersweet back story to this place in the form of the dream of two people that went south due to circumstances, then continued to fulfill the dream! Discover the story on their Our Story page.

• Address: 526 2nd St, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
• Phone: 740-529-2470 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Lofts Coffee Company and Roastery

Lofts Coffee Company and Roastery roast their own coffees, have a full bakery, and serve food, wine, and cocktails.  They also make K-cups, which are filled with fresh roasted and fresh ground coffee.  Their coffee pods are 100% recyclable and filled to order.

You can also purchase coffee from Lofts online, from a pack of 12 pods to a 5lb whole bean bag, and you can even create your own blend by choosing the percentage of Dark Roast, Medium Roast, and Light Roast beans.

• Address: 842 Gallia St, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
• Phone: 740-354-3597 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Portsmouth Festivals

There are two main annual festivals held in Portsmouth.

River Days

River Days – held over Labor Day weekend with family fun and live music on the riverfront in Portsmouth and the surrounding area.

Winterfest

Photo credits: Cindy Gordon of VisitOhioToday.com

Winterfest – mid-November through the end of December, Winterfest takes place in Boneyfiddle’s Market Square. With millions of lights, an ice skating rink, carriage rides, and much more seasonal fun!

Let’s Discover Things to Do in Portsmouth Ohio

Have you visited Portsmouth yet? What was your favorite thing to do there? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experience.

Southeast Ohio has a lot to offer visitors. Here are some of our suggestions: Things to do in Athens, Things to do in Chillicothe, and Things to do in Logan. If you are visiting Hocking Hills, be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Hocking Hills!

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc, are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com, and we can get it updated.

To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.

The post Things to Do in Portsmouth Ohio appeared first on Visit Ohio Today.

About Lake Hope State Park

Lake Hope State Park covers an area of 2,983 acres and is a heavily forested region. The park surrounds the 120-acre lake.

Most of the region’s forest was cut to fuel the industry in the area, but the land recovered and is now a second-growth forest. Oak and hickory trees dominate.

Wildlife such as deer and wild turkey are in this park, and beavers are also in numbers here. Look out for them near the quiet inlets of the lake!

Activities and Facilities

Boating

The lake has one boat ramp along State Route 278. Hand-powered crafts and electric motor boats are permitted. The Boathouse has canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and paddle boats for rent in spring, summer, and fall.

Swimming

There is a 600-foot beach where visitors can swim. There is a beach house with restrooms and a sun deck and patio, a boathouse with shelter, and concessions.

Fishing and Hunting

Fish in Lake Hope include bluegill, catfish, crappie, and largemouth bass. Anglers will need a valid Ohio fishing license, and Ohio fishing regulations apply. A downloadable fishing map is available.

Hunting is not available in the park but is permitted in the adjacent Zaleski State Forest.

Trails

There are eight hiking trails and eight mountain biking trails in this park.

Camping and Cabins

Lake Hope State Park Campground has 46 electric sites and 143 non-electric sites. Two camper cabins have some furnishings. There are heated showerhouses, flush toilets, pit latrines, waste disposal, and laundry facilities.

With the widest variety of cabins of any of the Ohio state parks, Lake Hope has Standard and Legacy cabins. All of these cabins are well-equipped with kitchen, bathroom with shower, living room with cable TV. A few of each type of cabin are pet-friendly.

Laurel Lodge is a fully furnished rustic lodge that can accommodate up to 24 guests. Featuring a stone woodburning fireplace, large patio with picnic tables and charcoal pit, and a fire ring with bench swings surrounding it. For more information about Lake Hope State Park Campground, check their website.

More Activities

• Picnicking: several picnic areas with tables and grills
• Shelterhouses: 3 reservable shelterhouses
• Nature Center: located near the campground
• Restaurant: Lake Hope Dining Lodge
• Basketball courts | Horseshoe pits | Playground
• Sledding
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Ice Skating
• Ice Fishing

Where is Lake Hope State Park Located?

• Address: 27331 State Route 278, McArthur, Ohio 45651
• Phone: 740-596-4938 | Website | Facebook

Location Map for Lake Hope State Park

Let’s Visit Lake Hope State Park!

Have you been to Lake Hope State Park or any of the other Ohio State Parks? Which is your favorite? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experience.

If you are a nature lover, you may like to know more about Caesar Creek State Park, Kiser Lake State Park, and Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park.

For everything you need to know about Hocking Hills, see our Ultimate Guide to Hocking Hills.

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc, are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com, and we can get it updated.

To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.

The post Lake Hope State Park appeared first on Visit Ohio Today.

About Penitentiary Glen Reservation

Penitentiary Glen was named by settlers because of the deep gorge that divides the park. With a vertical 100-foot ascent, once at the bottom, it was so difficult to get out that they considered it like a prison or penitentiary!

Activities at this park include hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and birding. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources designated this as a ‘Watchable Wildlife’ site.

Nature Center

The Nature Center features an interactive ‘Nature Calls’ exhibit where visitors can discover the sounds of the wildlife they may encounter in the park. There are seasonal art shows and a photography show each year. The Nature Center building may also be rented for private functions.

Nature Play is an acre of land for children to engage in nature discovery activities interactively.

Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center

Each year, this Wildlife Center rehabilitates nearly 2,000 animals. Special attention is given to animals whose populations are in decline.

Trails

There are seven trails at Penitentiary Glen Reservation, six of which can be used by bikers, and one of which can be used by horseback riders. A trail map is available online.

Miniature Steam Train Rides

Lake Shore Live Steamers are miniature steam-powered engines that take visitors through the woodlands to the rim of the gorge on selected dates. These train rides are sometimes part of the park’s special events.

More Activities and Facilities

Photo credits: Cindy Gordon of VisitOhioToday.com

Where is Penitentiary Glen Located?

• Address: 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Rd, Kirtland, Ohio 44094
• Phone: 440-256-1404 | Website | Facebook

Location Map for Penitentiary Glen

Let’s Visit Penitentiary Glen Reservation

Have you been to Penitentiary Glen Reservation? What was your favorite activity there? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experience with us.

While you are in the area, you may like to visit Holden Arboretum, which is also in Kirtland.

If you are enjoying a visit as a couple or a group of adults, or even a solo visit, Wineries in Geneva are relaxing and enjoyable places to visit. Our suggestions include Ferrante Winery, Hundley Cellars, and M Cellars. We also have a comprehensive directory of Ohio Wineries.

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc, are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com, and we can get it updated.

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The post Penitentiary Glen Reservation appeared first on Visit Ohio Today.

About State Parks in Southeast Ohio

All state parks in Ohio are maintained by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). They are also all free to enter, with no parking fees. Across the state, parks vary greatly in their landscape, facilities, and activities. The state parks in southeast Ohio are mostly rambling, rocky, and hilly with many trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

In this list, we are giving the addresses and contact details, the size of the park, and the facilities and activities available at each location. Please note that if you wish to fish or hunt, a license is usually required.

Map of State Parks in Southeast Ohio

Hocking Hills State Park

Situated in Logan, Hocking County

• Address: 19852 State Rte 664, Logan, Ohio 43138
• Phone: 740-385-6842 | Website | Facebook

Lake Logan State Park

Situated in Logan, Hocking County

• Address: 30442 Lake Logan Rd, Logan, Ohio 43138
• Phone: 740-385-6842 | Website
• Check out our article about Lake Logan!

Tar Hollow State Park

Situated in Laurelville, Hocking County

• Address: 16396 Tar Hollow Rd, Laurelville, Ohio 43135
• Phone: 740-887-4818 | Website | Facebook

Lake Hope State Park

Situated in McArthur, Vinton County

• Address: 27331 State Rte 278, McArthur, Ohio 45651
• Phone: 740-596-4938 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Lake Hope State Park!

Great Seal State Park

Situated in Chillicothe, Ross County

• Address: 4908 Marietta Rd, Chillicothe, Ohio 45601
• Phone: 740-887-4818 | Website
• Check out our article about Great Seal State Park!

Scioto Trail State Park

Situated in Chillicothe, Ross County

• Address: 144 Lake Rd, Chillicothe, Ohio 45601
• Phone: 740-887-4818 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Scioto Trail State Park!

Paint Creek State Park

Situated in Bainbridge, Ross County

• Address: 280 Taylor Rd, Bainbridge, Ohio 45612
• Phone: 937-393-4284 | Website

Pike Lake State Park

Situated in Bainbridge, Ross County

• Address: 1847 Pike Lake Rd, Bainbridge, Ohio 45612
• Phone: 740-493-2212 | Website | Facebook

Lake White State Park

Situated in Waverly, Pike County

• Address: 2767 State Rte 551, Waverly, Ohio 45690
• Phone: 740-493-2212 | Website

Shawnee State Park

Situated in West Portsmouth, Scioto County

• Address: 4404 State Rte 125, West Portsmouth, Ohio 45663
• Phone: 740-858-6652 | Website
• Check out our article about Shawnee State Park!

Lake Alma State Park

Situated in Wellston, Jackson County

• Address: 422 Lake Alma Rd, Wellston, Ohio 45692
• Phone: 740-384-4474 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Lake Alma State Park!

Jackson Lake State Park

Situated in Oak Hill, Jackson County

• Address: 921 Tommy Been Rd, Oak Hill, Ohio 45656
• Phone: 740-682-6197 | Website

Forked Run State Park

Situated in Reedsville, Meigs County

• Address: 63300 State Rte 124, Reedsville, Ohio 45772
• Phone: 740-378-6206 | Website
• Check out our article about Forked Run State Park!

Burr Oak State Park

Situated in Glouster, Athens County

• Address: 10220 Burr Oak Lodge Rd, Glouster, Ohio 45732
• Phone: 740-767-3570 | Website | Facebook

Stroud’s Run State Park

Situated in Athens, Athens County

• Address: 11661 State Park Rd, Athens, Ohio 45701
• Phone: 740-767-3570 | Website

Jesse Owens State Park

Situated in McConnelsville, Morgan County

• Address: 4470 E State Rte 78, McConnelsville, Ohio 43756
• Phone: 740-453-4377 | Website | Facebook

Wolf Run State Park

Situated in Caldwell, Noble County

• Address: 16170 Wolf Run Rd, Caldwell, Ohio 43724
• Phone: 740-732-5035 | Website
• Check out our article about Wolf Run State Park!

Blue Rock State Park

Situated in Blue Rock, Muskingum County

• Address: 7924 Cutler Lake Rd, Blue Rock, Ohio 43720-9728
• Phone:740-453-4377 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Blue Rock State Park!

Dillon State Park

Situated in Nashport, Muskingum County

• Address: 5265 Dillon Hills Dr, Nashport, Ohio 43830-9568
• Phone: 740-453-4377 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Dillon State Park!

Muskingum River State Park

Situated in Zanesville, Muskingum County

This state park is 112 miles along the Muskingum River at Zanesville to the Ohio River at Marietta with a series of 11 locks, 10 of which are in operation. This navigation system is on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Address: 1390 Ellis Dam Rd, Zanesville, Ohio 43701
• Phone: 740-453-4377 | Website | Facebook

Salt Fork State Park

Situated in Lore City, Guernsey County

• Address: 14755 Cadiz Rd, Lore City, Ohio 43755
• Phone: 740-439-3521 | Website | Facebook

Barkcamp State Park

Situated in Belmont, Belmont County

• Address: 65330 Barkcamp Rd, Belmont, Ohio 43718-9733
• Phone: 740-484-4064 | Website

Ohio State Parks

Check out our other regional lists of Ohio state parks:

• Central
• Northeast
• Northwest
• Southwest

Let’s Visit State Parks in Southeast Ohio!

Have you visited any of the 22 state parks in southeast Ohio? Which is your favorite? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experiences with us.

Do you wonder how to keep your kids amused during school vacation times? We have some suggestions for you!

• Things to Do in Ohio with Kids
• Indoor Water Parks in Ohio
• Indoor Playgrounds in Ohio
• Resorts in Ohio

You can be sure kids and adults will have a blast at these places in Ohio!

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com and we can get it updated.

To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.

The post State Parks in Southeast Ohio appeared first on Visit Ohio Today.