9 Amazing State Parks Around Columbus That Will Blow You Away

The state of Ohio is incredibly rich in state parks, and for residents of Columbus, beautiful scenery and convenient campgrounds are just a quick drive away. At these state parks, you can enjoy lots of fun activities depending on the time of year you visit, including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, horseback riding, disc golfing, and, of course, learning about Ohio's rich wildlife and natural history. Here are nine state parks to visit near Columbus that are all within an hour's drive of the Buckeye State capitol. Add them to your Buckeye State bucket list and get ready to fall head-over-heels for the beauty of central Ohio!

1. Alum Creek State Park

This oasis for water lovers is a great state park right here in Columbus. At Alum Creek you can enjoy camping, swimming, boating, fishing, and so much more. There are trails to walk and a great fenced dog park for your four-legged pals.

Alum Creek State Park is located at 3305 S. Old State Road, Delaware, OH, 43015, and you can read more about this park on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.

2. A.W. Marion State Park

A.W. Marion is a small, quiet, and serene state park. During the summer, this is a great place to camp and enjoy picnic areas, fishing, and trail walking. During the winter, the park is also open for sledding, ice skating, and ice fishing.

A.W. Marion State Park is located at 7317 Warner Huffer Road, Circleville, OH, 43113, and you can learn more about this Ohio State Park here.

3. Flint Ridge State Park

Over 10,000 years ago, Native Americans quarried the area that is now the Flint Ridge State Park for flint, which was used to make tools like knives and spear points. There is a great museum where you can learn about this fascinating history. In addition to providing a great educational opportunity, the park also provides beautiful trails and an calming outdoor experience.

Flint Ridge State Park is located at 15300 Flint Ridge Road, Glenford, OH, 43739, and you can learn more about this historic Ohio State Park here.

4. Delaware State Park

The dense woodlands and meadows that cover this park were once the lands of the Delaware Indians. You can enjoy this park with a unique accommodation - a yurt. Three furnished yurt units are available to rent May through October.

Delaware State Park is located at 5202 U.S. Highway 23 N, Delaware, OH, 43015, and you can learn more about this Ohio State Park here.

5. Dillon State Park

This park, set in hilly valleys of the Dillon area, has room for all your favorite activities. There is a disc golf course, a bridle trail, mountain biking and hiking trails to enjoy the scenery.

You can learn more about this Ohio State Park here.

6. Buck Creek State Park

A mix of forest, meadows, and prairies make Buck Creek State Park a beautiful nature retreat. Equipped with a beach for summer fun, cross-country skiing trails for the winter, and a disc golf course for all seasons, this park is an exciting visit any time of the year!

Buck Creek State Park is located at 1976 Buck Creek Ln., Springfield, OH, 45502, and you can learn more about this beautiful Ohio State Park here.

7. Deer Creek State Park

Deer Creek State Park is located within Ohio's rich agricultural lands, giving way to incredible flora and wildlife. Enjoy an 18-hole golf course and a 9-hole disc golf course as you take in the beautiful nature.

Deer Creek State Park is located at 20635 State Park Road 20, Mt. Sterling, OH, 43143.

8. Buckeye Lake State Park

The perfect place for water sport enthusiasts, Buckeye Lake State Park has long been a favorite weekend destination for Columbusites. White Buckeye Lake does not have its own campground, you can reserve a shelter house to serve as your base while you enjoy a day on the water.

Buckeye Lake State Park is located at 2905 Leibs Island Rd. NE, Millersport, OH, 43046.

9. Madison Lake State Park

The 106-acre lake at Madison Lake State Park is a great place to enjoy sailing, rowing, or canoeing. Enjoy a one-mile hiking trail through woodlands and along the lake, then stop at the fully equipped picnic area for a snack!

Madison Lake State Park is located at 4860 E Park Dr., London, OH, 43140.

There are so many relaxing parks and so many activities to enjoy, and all just an hour or less outside of the city! If you want to learn more about the parks and their amenities, make sure you visit the Ohio State Parks website.

Which Ohio State Park is your favorite to visit when you're near Columbus? Let us know in the comments below!