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April Dray

April Dray is the Ohio staff writer for Only In Your State and a lifelong Ohioan with a B.S. in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in Ohio newspaper reporting, she brings real editorial credibility to her coverage of the Buckeye State's hidden gems, local restaurants, and overlooked destinations. When she's not on deadline, she's out in the field hunting for Ohio's next great story.

The Lighthouse Road Trip On The Ohio Coast That’s Dreamily Beautiful

Discover a scenic lighthouse road trip along the shores of Lake Erie in Ohio.

Map highlighting a road trip route along Ohio's lighthouses, featuring key locations and a blue path.

Take A Thrilling Road Trip To The 9 Most Abandoned Places In Ohio

Explore nine abandoned and eerie locations in Ohio on a road trip spanning just under 9.5 hours.

Ruins of a stone building surrounded by bare trees and overgrown vegetation, with a brick chimney still standing.

Not Many People Realize That These 13 Things Are Actually Illegal In Ohio

Discover 13 bizarre and unusual laws still in effect in various cities across Ohio.

A close-up of a wooden mouse trap with a yellow bait holder and metal spring mechanism.

Meet the Locals

15 Funny Words And Phrases That People From Ohio Say

Ohioans have unique slang and phrases that distinguish them from others.

aerial shot of the ohio state football stadium with empty seats

This Moderate, 2-Mile Trail Leads To Dundee Falls, One Of Ohio’s Most Underrated Waterfalls

Dundee Falls in Ohio is a hidden gem waterfall hike that offers a scenic and less crowded experience.

A serene waterfall cascading over moss-covered rocks in a lush green setting.

Vacation Rentals

This Ohio Cabin Hiding In Hocking Hills Has A Heated Waterfall Swimming Hole

The Cliffs at Hocking Hills is a luxury cabin in Ohio featuring a heated waterfall swimming hole and unique amenities.

A serene outdoor scene featuring a waterfall, a pond, and a deck with string lights surrounded by lush greenery.

The Hike In Ohio That Takes You To Not One, But TWO Insanely Beautiful Waterfalls

Cascade Park in Ohio offers a scenic 1.2-mile loop trail featuring two impressive waterfalls.

A serene waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs into a calm pool, surrounded by lush greenery.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

These 10 Swimming Spots Have The Clearest, Most Pristine Water In Ohio

Discover the top 10 swimming beaches in Ohio, known for their clear, pristine waters and family-friendly environments.

Silhouette of a lifeguard chair against a vibrant sunset over the ocean.

Visit These 7 Creepy Ghost Towns In Ohio At Your Own Risk

Explore seven eerie ghost towns in Ohio, each with its own creepy history and abandoned charm.

Two white houses at a road intersection, with power lines and a bridge in the background under a clear blue sky.

Visit The 18 Very Best Restaurants In Ohio For Unforgettable Meals

Discover 18 of the best restaurants in Ohio, each offering unique cuisine and atmospheres.

Exterior of a brick building with a sign for "Syd's the Sandwich" and black awnings, located on a city street.

According To FBI Statistics, These Are The 10 Most Dangerous Cities In Ohio

FBI statistics reveal the ten most dangerous cities in Ohio based on crime rates per capita.

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11 Haunted Places In Ohio That Are Super Creepy

Explore some of the most haunted places in Ohio, each with its own eerie history and ghostly encounters.

A view of an empty theater stage with red curtains and rows of yellow seats in front.

Caves & Rock Formations

An Unexpected Salt Mine Is Hiding Underground In This Lake In Ohio

Cargill’s Salt Mine beneath Lake Erie in Ohio is a massive, otherworldly salt mine that produces millions of tons of rock salt annually.

An underground mining tunnel with machinery and a pile of extracted material, illuminated by overhead lights.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

It’s No Secret Why These 10 Lakes Are The Best In Ohio

Discover the best lakes in Ohio for fishing, boating, and family fun.

A serene lake view with a grassy shore and a wooden bench, surrounded by lush green trees under a partly cloudy sky.

Here Are The 13 Most Beautiful Places In Ohio That You Must Visit ASAP

Discover some of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in Ohio, from natural wonders to historic estates.

A serene waterfall cascades over rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery and a stone bridge above.

Hotels & Resorts

This Resort RV Park In Ohio Was Recently Named One Of The Most Beautiful In The Country

Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, is a top-rated RV resort offering luxury accommodations and proximity to major attractions.

Aerial view of a lakeside RV park with green trees, winding roads, and parked RVs along the water's edge.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

These 6 Ohio Quarry Lakes Are Perfect For A Day Of Fun In The Sun

Discover some of Ohio's best quarry lakes for swimming, scuba diving, and enjoying beautiful scenery.

A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees under a partly cloudy sky.

6 Incredible Ohio Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Ohio offers several scenic and enjoyable train rides perfect for day trips with family and friends.

A vintage train in maroon and white parked beside a historic train station on a sunny day.

14 Unique Day Trips In Ohio That You Can’t Take Anywhere Else In The World

Discover the best day trips in Ohio to refresh and escape daily routines.

A red roller coaster twists and turns over a scenic waterfront, with riders enjoying the thrill on a sunny day.

11 Surprising Firsts That Ohio Can Proudly Claim

Ohio has been a pioneer in various significant societal changes and innovations.

Downtown Cleveland at dusk

11 Little Known Water Parks In Ohio To Visit Before Summer Ends

Discover 11 lesser-known water parks in Ohio perfect for a family trip before summer ends.

A busy water park with colorful umbrellas, slides, and many people enjoying the pool on a sunny day.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

If You Didn’t Know About These 8 Swimming Holes in Ohio, They’re a Must Visit

Discover eight of the best swimming holes in Ohio for a refreshing summer experience.

The Hidden Beaches Road Trip That Will Show You Ohio Like Never Before

Discover some of the best hidden beaches in Ohio for a perfect beach day.

Map of Ohio highlighting a road trip route to hidden beaches, featuring locations like Geneva and Mosquito Lake State Park.

Aqua Adventures Is A Floating Waterpark In Ohio That’s Fun For The Whole Family

Land of Illusion's Aqua Adventures in Middletown, Ohio, offers a unique floating waterpark experience with various activities for all ages.

A sandy beach with a vibrant inflatable water park and people enjoying the water on a sunny day.

You’ll Enjoy Thrills and Fun At The 6 Best Waterparks In Ohio

Ohio offers numerous impressive water parks, both indoor and outdoor, for year-round fun and thrills.

A colorful water play area with slides, fountains, and playful structures surrounded by greenery under a cloudy sky.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Here Are 6 Swimming Holes in Ohio That Will Make Your Days Epic

Discover some of the best secluded swimming holes in Ohio for a refreshing summer experience.

This Two-Day Hippie Festival In Ohio Is An Absolute Blast

A colorful peace sign made of flowers in front of a decorated van at a festival, with tents in the background.

Vacation Rentals

Stay In This Cozy Little Creekside Cabin In Ohio For Less Than $60 Per Night

Arrowhead Ridge Cabin in Butler, Ohio, offers an affordable, off-the-grid nature retreat for travelers.

A small, charming cabin with a green and brown exterior, surrounded by trees and featuring a screened porch.

12 Places In Ohio Way Out In The Boonies But So Worth The Drive

Discover some of the most remote and unique places to visit in Ohio, from themed inns to historic mills.

A white barn with a green roof, featuring a mural and various items displayed outside on a sunny day.

The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Ohio Who Loves Waterfall Hikes

Discover some of the best waterfall hiking trails in Ohio, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

A serene forest scene featuring a small waterfall cascading into a calm stream, surrounded by lush green trees.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

7 Places In Ohio That Are Like A Caribbean Paradise In The Summer

Discover hidden summer paradises in Ohio, including beaches, water parks, and waterfront dining spots.

A beachside restaurant with colorful signs, outdoor seating, and umbrellas, overlooking the water on a sunny day.

The National Veterans Memorial And Museum Is Right Here In Ohio And It’s A National Treasure

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio, offers a unique and engaging way to honor and learn about veterans' stories.

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Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

5 Lazy River Summer Tubing Trips In Ohio To Start Planning Now

Discover the best spots for river tubing in Ohio, offering natural lazy rivers and various water activities.

A group of people floating on yellow rafts in a lush, green river surrounded by trees on a sunny day.

Most People In Ohio Don’t Know About Our Old German And Italian POW Camp

Camp Perry Proving Ground in Ohio housed German and Italian POWs during World War II and played a significant role in the war effort.

Aerial view of a lakeside camp with tents, fields, and trees along the shoreline.

8 Glorious Campgrounds In Ohio Where No Reservation Is Required

Discover several Ohio campgrounds where no reservations are required for a spontaneous nature retreat.

A green and white tent nestled among trees in a misty forest, with a dirt path leading towards it.

Camp Right On The Water With This Unique Floating Campsite In Ohio

Unique floating tents for camping are available at Treasure Island Park in Troy, Ohio, offering a one-of-a-kind experience on the Great Miami River.

These 10 Camping Spots You’ll Only Find In Ohio Are Simply Perfect

Discover ten of the best campgrounds in Ohio, each offering unique outdoor experiences and amenities.

This Magical Waterfall Campground In Ohio Is Unforgettable

Whispering Falls Campground in Ohio offers a unique camping experience with its own waterfall and scenic views.

A serene river scene with flowing water over rocks, surrounded by lush green trees and shrubs.

9 Spectacular Spots in Ohio Where You Can Camp Right on the Lake

Discover nine spectacular spots for lake camping in Ohio, offering stunning views and various amenities.

9 Campgrounds In Ohio That Are Picture Perfect For Camper And RV Trips

Discover nine top RV camping spots in Ohio, each offering unique amenities and family-friendly activities.

A campsite with RVs and tents surrounded by trees under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

These 6 Ohio Campgrounds Have Comfortable And Spacious Yurts You Can Stay In

A yurt surrounded by vibrant wildflowers, overlooking a serene lake and rolling hills under a partly cloudy sky.

These Are The Top 5 State Parks For Camping In Ohio And You’ll Want To Visit Each One

Ohio offers some of the best camping experiences in the Midwest with over 70 campgrounds, highlighting five top state parks.

A picnic table by a calm pond, surrounded by grass and trees, with a small building in the background.

Wildlife & Farms

Get Lost In More Than A Mile Of Beautiful Lavender Plants At Lavender Trails In Ohio

Lavender Trails in Orrville, Ohio, offers a serene and colorful experience with over a mile of lavender plants and various special events.

A wooden sign reading "Lavender Trails" with decorative elements, set in a grassy field with lavender plants in the background.

Hike Through Ohio’s Rock Maze For An Adventure Like No Other

Worden's Ledges Loop Trail in Hinckley Reservation, Ohio, features unique 1940s carvings and offers a captivating hiking experience.

A stone sculpture resembling a figure sits among trees and rocks in a wooded area, with a path leading further into the forest.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

5 Lake Erie Beaches In Ohio That’ll Make You Feel Like You’re At The Ocean

Discover five stunning Lake Erie beaches in Ohio that offer a perfect summer getaway with natural sand, fresh water, and beautiful views.

Waves gently rolling onto a sandy beach under a clear blue sky.

These 12 Places In Ohio Amish Country Are Unique And Worth Visiting

Ohio Amish Country offers a variety of charming and unique attractions, making it one of the best day trips in the state.

A scenic farm with a red barn, windmill, and a person walking with a cow through lush greenery and gardens.

Experience Holiday Magic From The 1800s At Christmas Candlelighting In Ohio’s Historic Roscoe Village

Roscoe Village in Ohio offers a nostalgic Christmas experience with historic tours, festive events, and charming shops.

A large crowd gathers at night, holding candles near a decorated tree in a festive outdoor setting.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

11 Little Known Beaches In Ohio That’ll Make Your Summer Unforgettable

Discover eleven hidden beaches in Ohio that offer unique and unforgettable summer experiences.

Here Are The 10 Most Dangerous Places To Live In Ohio

Lists the ten most dangerous places to live in Ohio based on crime rates.

Historic stone courthouse with a clock tower, surrounded by trees and flags, under a cloudy sky.

Sample Unlimited Tacos At The Upcoming Columbus Taco Fest In Ohio

Columbus Taco Fest in Genoa Park offers a weekend filled with diverse taco options, drinks, and live entertainment.

A bustling food truck festival with crowds enjoying various food options under a sunny sky.