Discover Ohio's Natural Beauty: 15 Must-Visit Parks This Spring
Spring is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful parks in Ohio. With warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, there's no better time to explore the natural beauty of this great state. Here are 15 parks to check out this spring throughout Ohio.
Hocking Hills State Park
Located in Southeast Ohio, Hocking Hills is known for its stunning waterfalls, sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations. There are miles of hiking trails to explore, making it a perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Located between Akron and Cleveland, this national park offers over 100 miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for biking, horseback riding and scenic train rides. The park also features waterfalls, caves and other natural wonders.
Mohican State Park
Located in Central Ohio, Mohican is known for its rugged terrain, including deep gorges and sandstone cliffs. The park features over 1,000 acres of forest, as well as opportunities for camping, hiking and fishing.
Alum Creek State Park
This park, located just north of Columbus, offers over 4,000 acres of outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating and swimming in the lake.
East Fork State Park
Located in Clermont County, this park features a 2,160-acre lake, as well as hiking trails, campsites and picnic areas. Visitors can also rent kayaks, canoes and paddleboards to explore the lake.
Sharon Woods Metro Park
Located in Columbus, this Metro Park offers over 750 acres of green space, as well as a fishing lake, nature center and picnic areas. There are also paved and unpaved trails for hiking and biking.
Lake Erie Bluffs
This park, located in Lake County, offers stunning views of Lake Erie from its 40-foot observation tower. Visitors can also explore the park's beaches, hiking trails and picnic areas.
John Bryan State Park
Located in Southwest Ohio, John Bryan State Park is known for its hiking trails and scenic views of the Little Miami River. The park also features a nature center, campsites and picnic areas.
Scioto Audubon Metro Park
This Columbus Metro Park features a rock-climbing wall, a dog park and a multi-use trail for hiking and biking. The park also offers opportunities for birdwatching and fishing.
Caesar Creek State Park
This park, located between Cincinnati and Dayton, features a 3,700-acre lake, as well as hiking trails, campsites and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating and swimming in the lake.
Malabar Farm State Park
This park, located in Richland County, features a historic farm and mansion, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the park's ponds and streams.
Buck Creek State Park
Located in Springfield, Ohio, this park offers opportunities for camping, hiking and fishing. Visitors can also rent boats and kayaks to explore the park's lake.
Dillon State Park
Located in Muskingum County, this park features a 1,360-acre lake, as well as hiking trails, campsites and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating and swimming in the lake.
Mill Creek Park
This park, located in Youngstown, features over 4,000 acres of green space, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas and historic buildings. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and boating in the park's lakes and ponds.
Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
This park, located on the shores of Lake Erie, is home to the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and enjoy stunning views of Lake Erie. The park also features picnic areas and a beach for swimming and sunbathing.
No matter where you are in Ohio, you're sure to find a park that's perfect for enjoying the beauty of spring. From the stunning waterfalls of Hocking Hills State Park to the peaceful serenity of Lake Erie Bluffs, Ohio's parks offer something for everyone. Grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic and explore all that Ohio's parks have to offer this spring.