It’s no secret that Ohio’s nature scene is beautifully impressive; but what might be a secret to you are the following serene outdoor spots. While many of these might be known to locals, these nature getaways are not nearly as popular as, say, Ohio’s Hocking Hills State Park, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, or Franklin Botanical Gardens in Columbus. In no particular order, here are some of the most scenic places in Ohio where nature will completely relax you:

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Have you been to any of these places? What other lesser-known or secret spots in nature do you think should have made the list?

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most scenic places in Ohio

Which state parks should I visit in Ohio?

With 83 distinctly beautiful state parks within our borders, Ohio nature lovers have an abundance of natural destinations to explore. The popular Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a sanctuary nestled between Cleveland and Akron along the Cuyahoga River. The northern region of the park is home to the Canal Exploration Center where visitors can learn about the unique history of this 19th-century waterway. Just east of Toledo, the Maumee Bay State Park boasts 1,336-acres of recreation areas on the shimmering shores of Lake Erie. Home to over 300 species of birds, this park is the perfect place to take in the scenery and spot native wildlife as you traverse boardwalk trails through tranquil meadows and marshes.

Does Ohio have any natural wonders?

If you are in the mood for an unforgettable getaway, venture out to explore the many hidden gems across the Buckeye State’s diverse landscapes. On South Bass Island, the remarkably beautiful Crystal Cave is the home of the world’s largest known geode. Visitors can journey 35 feet underground to explore the sights of this 15,000-year-old natural wonder which is now home to a charming winery. In Marshallville, the Johnson Woods sprawls over 200-acres of some of Ohio’s oldest woodlands with trees towering over 120 feet tall. The Glen Helen Nature Preserve in Yellow Springs is a beloved spot covering 1,000-acres with 25 miles of trails winding through 400-year-old trees, rugged limestone cliffs and stunning waterfalls, and of course the famous “Yellow Spring”.

Where should I go to take photos of Ohio?

Ohio is an ideal setting for nature photographers and our landscapes offer breathtaking backdrops of stunning waterfalls, lush woodlands, rugged gorges, and pristine lakes. At Hocking Hills State Park, unique rock formations and rushing waterfalls make for an idyllic area to capture our state’s beauty. Tucked between Cincinnati and Columbus, the Clifton Gorge State Natural Preserve is home to an astoundingly gorgeous dolomite and limestone gorge with easily accessible overlooks along short foot trails. About 40 miles south of Clifton Gorge, discover the peaceful ponds and meandering meadows of the Fallsville Wildlife Area. Here visitors can snap a shot of the placid waters of Clear Creek or venture out to catch a glimpse of the park’s waterfalls.