Hidden Gems in Ohio State Parks: Unleash the Explorer Within
Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than Ohio’s state parks, where the great outdoors awaits. With over 70 parks scattered throughout the Buckeye State, you’ll find endless opportunities to hike, bike, camp, and soak up the natural beauty. In this article, we’ll guide you to the hidden gems in Ohio state parks that will leave you in awe. Buckle up and let’s dive in!
Getting Here: Maps and Transportation
Before we embark on this journey, let’s get you to Ohio. The state is easily accessible by air, land, and water. Here are a few transportation options:
- Nearest Airport: John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) – 10 miles east of Columbus, Ohio
- Nearest Harbour: Lake Erie Islands (Put-in-Bay) – 80 miles north of Cleveland, Ohio
- Train Station: Amtrak’s Union Station in Columbus, Ohio (WASE) – 4 miles north of downtown Columbus
- Bus Station: Greyhound’s Columbus Station (COL) – 3 miles north of downtown Columbus
Now, let’s get you to the state parks. Here are a few hidden gems with directions from major cities in Ohio:
- Rocky Fork Gorge ( Bainbridge, OH)
- From Columbus: Take US-33 E (23 miles, 30 minutes)
- From Cincinnati: Take I-71 N (120 miles, 2 hours)
- From Cleveland: Take I-71 S (160 miles, 2.5 hours)
- Kelleys Island State Park (Kelleys Island, OH)
- From Columbus: Take US-23 N (140 miles, 2.5 hours + 20-minute ferry ride)
- From Cleveland: Take I-90 W (80 miles, 1.5 hours + 20-minute ferry ride)
- From Cincinnati: Take I-75 N (230 miles, 3.5 hours + 20-minute ferry ride)
- Tar Hollow State Park (Tar Hollow, OH)
- From Columbus: Take US-23 S (90 miles, 1.5 hours)
- From Cleveland: Take I-71 S (150 miles, 2.5 hours)
- From Cincinnati: Take I-71 N (100 miles, 2 hours)
Facilities and Conditions
Ohio state parks offer a range of facilities and activities to suit every interest. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect at our hidden gems:
- Rocky Fork Gorge:
- 100 campsites with electric hookups
- 5 hiking trails (10 miles total)
- Fishing (smallmouth bass, panfish)
- Swimming pool
- Picnic areas and playgrounds
- Kelleys Island State Park:
- 35 campsites with electric hookups
- 6 hiking trails (15 miles total)
- Fishing (yellow perch, smallmouth bass)
- Swimming beach
- Visitor center and picnic areas
- Tar Hollow State Park:
- 70 campsites with electric hookups
- 13 hiking trails (17 miles total)
- Fishing (smallmouth bass, panfish)
- Swimming pool
- Disc golf and picnicking areas
Things to Do and Prices
Ohio state parks offer a variety of activities to keep you entertained. Here are a few things to do at our hidden gems:
- Rocky Fork Gorge:
- Hike the Rocky Fork Gorge Trail (3.5 miles, moderate)
- Go fishing or boating on the gorge
- Swim at the pool (fee: $5 adults, $3 kids 6-11)
- Camp (fee: $20-$30 per night)
- Kelleys Island State Park:
- Explore the Marblehead Lighthouse (free)
- Go biking or kayaking on the island
- Swim at the beach (free)
- Camp (fee: $20-$30 per night)
- Tar Hollow State Park:
- Play disc golf (fee: $5 adults, $3 kids 6-11)
- Hike the Tar Hollow Ridge Trail (4.5 miles, moderate)
- Go fishing or boating on the lake
- Camp (fee: $20-$30 per night)
Public Facilities Near the State Parks
Need a place to stay or grab a bite? Here are some public facilities near our hidden gems:
- Rocky Fork Gorge:
- Hotels: Comfort Inn (13 miles, Bainbridge, OH), Holiday Inn Express (15 miles, Chillicothe, OH)
- Restaurants: Leo’s Family Restaurant (5 miles, Bainbridge, OH), The Winchester Brewery (10 miles, Winchester, OH)
- Grocery Stores: Walmart (15 miles, Chillicothe, OH), Kroger (10 miles, Winchester, OH)
- Kelleys Island State Park:
- Hotels: Kelleys Island Hotel (in park), Island House Hotel (in park)
- Restaurants: Kelleys Island Restaurant (in park), Doc’s Beach House (in park)
- Grocery Stores: Kelleys Island General Store (in park)
- Tar Hollow State Park:
- Hotels: Quality Inn (15 miles, Chillicothe, OH), Hampton Inn (20 miles, Lancaster, OH)
- Restaurants: The Roundhouse Restaurant (5 miles, Tar Hollow, OH), The Smokehouse Restaurant (10 miles, McArthur, OH)
- Grocery Stores: Walmart (20 miles, Chillicothe, OH), Kroger (15 miles, Lancaster, OH)
Reviews
Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what others have to say about our hidden gems:
- Rocky Fork Gorge: "This park is a hidden gem! The gorge is stunning, and the hiking trails are well-marked. We camped here for a weekend and loved every minute of it." – Sarah P.
- Kelleys Island State Park: "We took the ferry to Kelleys Island and spent the day exploring the park. The beach is beautiful, and the visitor center is full of island history. Can’t wait to come back!" – John D.
- Tar Hollow State Park: "This park is perfect for families! The campground is clean and well-maintained, and the disc golf course is a blast. We’ll definitely be back!" – Emily W.
Conclusion
Ohio state parks are full of hidden gems just waiting to be explored. From hiking and biking to fishing and swimming, there’s something for every interest and skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing getaway, these state parks are sure to impress. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to experience the great outdoors in Ohio!
FAQs
Q: What are the hours of operation for Ohio state parks?
A: Most state parks are open from dawn to dusk, but hours may vary depending on the park and time of year.
Q: Can I bring my pet to Ohio state parks?
A: Yes, pets are allowed in Ohio state parks, but must be kept on a leash and under control.
Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish in Ohio state parks?
A: Yes, a valid Ohio fishing license is required to fish in state parks.
Q: Can I reserve campsites in Ohio state parks?
A: Yes, campsites can be reserved online or by calling the park office.
Q: What are the fees for camping in Ohio state parks?
A: Camping fees range from $20 to $30 per night, depending on the park and amenities.
