Do you need a little adventure in your life? Ohio's state parks are the perfect places to explore when you need just that. The next time you find yourself with a free weekend and a sense of adventure, considering take a mini road trip to some of Ohio's best state parks. We've put together the perfect weekend itinerary for some beautiful hiking and quality time in nature. The following four state parks to visit in Ohio are some of our favorites, and we hope you enjoy exploring them as much as we do! Let's go on a little adventure...
The total trip clocks in at about 3.5 hours of drive time. To view a map of the trip in a separate tab or window, click here.
1. Hocking Hills State Park (Logan)
Hocking Hills State Park is arguably Ohio’s most beloved state park, where waterfalls, caves, unique rock formations and hiking trails abound. The park features several things to do (including zip-lining), beautiful cabins to stay in and what is quite possibly the best hiking spot in the state: Old Man’s Cave. You'll also want to check out the Rock House while you're here.
2. Caesar Creek State Park (Waynesville)
Start your second day with one of the state’s most underrated hikes at Caesar Creek State Park. The trek to Horseshoe Falls follows the park's 11.5-mile Perimeter Loop Trail. You can hike the whole loop trail to see the falls, or just park your vehicle at Flat Fork Ridge and follow the yellow markings. (After you've crossed the swinging bridge, it won't be long until you hear the falls and approach the observation area.) Part of a larger trail, the 2.4-mile out-and-back trek to Horseshoe Falls from Flat Fork Ridge is a fairly easy, eventful journey that’s perfect for a short day hike.
3. 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. (Both the rim and gorge trails can be fairly difficult to hike here, so prepare for some strenuous areas.) You can hike the North Rim all the way to the connecting Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve if you have the time. You can camp here or stay in the charming town of Yellow Springs for the night.
4. Deer Creek State Park (Mt Sterling)
End your weekend with a stay at one of Ohio's most underrated state parks and most impressive lodges. The Deer Creek State Park Lodge and Conference Center features 110 guest rooms, an indoor pool, several outdoor actives and a restaurant with sweeping views of the lake. It’s truly the perfect place to get away from it all—even if it’s just for a night or two.
Have you explored any of these state parks? What other state parks to visit in Ohio would you add to this road trip? Share your thoughts, photos and experiences with us!
For more underrated state parks in Ohio, check out our previous article: 11 Under-Appreciated State Parks In Ohio You’re Sure To Love.
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