With more than 70 state parks in Ohio, we've got plenty of beautiful places to visit and explore here in the Buckeye State. From mossy gorges and state forests to hidden waterfalls and stunning lakeshores, there's always something photo-worthy you'll find in an Ohio state park. The following are 11 of our favorite state parks (listed in no particular order) that we think just don't get enough attention.
1. Salt Fork State Park (Lore City)
A popular place to camp, this stunning state park features 14 hiking trails, fishing, swimming, miniature golf and more. There's so much to do here. Salt Fork State Park is located at 14755 Cadiz Rd., Lore City, OH, 43755.
2. Indian Lake State Park (Lakeview)
In addition to lake access for boating, swimming, and fishing, several picnic spots, hiking trails, and playgrounds abound at this 800-acre state park. You'll find it at 12774 OH-235, Lakeview, OH, 43331.
3. Alum Creek State Park (Delaware)
Alum Creek Reservoir holds 3,387 acres of water and is open to fishing, boating, ice fishing, ice boating, and swimming. Alum Creek Lake was constructed in the 70s as part of the Flood Control Act of 1962. This state park in Ohio is located at
3305 South Old State Rd., Delaware, OH, 43015.
4. Mohican State Park (Loudonville)
Surrounded by the 4,525-acre Mohican-Memorial State Forest, this beautiful state park sits just outside of the quiet, small town of Loudonville near Columbus. You'll find it at 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH, 44842.
5. Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park (Garrettsville)
Portage County is home to this 160-acre park, which features rugged cliffs, hidden waterfalls, unique hiking trails, and diverse plant life. There are three miles of trails that take hikers along the rim of the ledges and into the gorge. Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park is located at 12440 OH-282, Garrettsville, OH, 44231.
6. Kelleys Island State Park (Kelleys Island)
With stunning views of Lake Erie and ancient ruins to explore, this beautiful campground almost makes you forget you’re in Ohio. It's a particularly beautiful place to camp. Kelleys Island State Park is located at 920 Division St., Kelleys Island, OH, 43438.
7. Lake Hope State Park (McArthur)
Surrounded by the Zaleski State Forest and centered on Lake Hope is this gorgeous 2,983-acre Ohio state park. (Legend has it, its historic Hope Furnace is haunted.) You'll find this serene state park at 27331 OH-278, McArthur, OH, 45651.
8. Paint Creek State Park (Bainbridge)
In addition to the usual outdoor activities, this 5,652-acre park in Ohio features an amphitheater and even mini golf. Paint Creek State Park is located at 280 Taylor Rd., Bainbridge, OH, 45612.
9. John Bryan State Park (Yellow Springs)
This gorgeous 752-acre park surrounds Clifton Gorge. You'll get great views of the gorge and the Little Miami River here. John Bryan State Park is a truly special state park, located at 3790 Ohio 370, Yellow Springs, OH, 45387.
10. Quail Hollow State Park (Hartville)
In addition to multiple hiking trails, this beautiful state park features herb gardens and the Carriage House Nature Preserve. Quail Hollow State Park is located at 13480 Congress Lake Avenue, Hartville, OH, 44632.
11. Deer Creek State Park (Mt. Sterling)
In addition to an impressive lodge and conference center, you'll find gorgeous scenery and boating opportunities at Deer Creek State Park . It's located at 22300 State Park RD., 20, Mt Sterling, OH, 43143.
Have you paid a visit to any of these state parks in Ohio before? What is your favorite state park to visit in Ohio? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
Ohio just isn't home to numerous superlative state parks... we also have one of the most beautiful, underrated national parks in the country, and it's one you'll definitely want to visit!
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