Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserves encompasses 956 acres of woodland trails, rivers, and natural rock formations in Lucking County. With over 10 miles of trails winding through the preserve, you can make a whole day of it. Enjoy towering cliffs, riverside views, and a heart-pumping hike.
The Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve in Lancaster is over 554 acres of beautiful nature. Take a hike up to the Jacob's Ladder rock formation, a Black Hand Sandstone formation towering 250 feet above the valley of Arney Run. The three-mile-long trail has two separate loops of moderate difficultly because of their steepness.
Cedar Falls is one of the most picturesque hiking locations in Hocking Hills. Check out the route that passes through Cedar Falls for a real challenge. This isolated chasm is blooming with hemlock and characterized by steep rock walls, grottos, and waterfalls.
In Monroe County, the Lamping Homestead area offers camping, picnicking, fishing, canoeing, and a scenic hiking trail with two loops, one at 3.5 miles and the other at one and a half mile. A two-acre pond at the site is stocked with bluegill, bass, and catfish.
The Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve in Yellow Springs is a 268-acre preserve that protects a spectacular dolomite and limestone gorge. It became a landmark in 1968 and encompasses a two-mile stretch of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River.
]]>John Bryan State Park is the most scenic state park in western Ohio. With a beautiful limestone gorge cut by the Little Miami River, and dense forestry throughout the 752 acres, John Bryan provides a uniquely scenic experience for any hiker.
Nelson Kennedy Ledges might seem like a relatively small state park at just 167 acres, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in beautiful features and a thrilling experience. From rugged cliffs to diverse plant life, it features four scenic hiking trails sure to please even the pickiest of hikers.
If you're looking for a larger park, Caesar Creek might be more to your liking with 3,741 acres of clear blue waters, scattered woodlands, meadows, and steep ravines. Supplement your hike with some boating or fishing in the creek, and bring the whole family along!
Mohican State Park encompasses over 1,110 acres and is adjacent to another 4,525-acre state forest. It's well known locally for its outstanding beauty as one of Ohio's most unique natural regions. The Clear Fork Gorge, hemlock forest, and scenic Mohican River are all highlights in the Mohican State Park.
The Zaleski State Forest is the second largest forest in Ohio with several hiking trails including the main 26-mile trail, a 10-mile day loop and easy access to the Moonville Rail Trail. With a wide variety of plant and animal life, you need to experience the scenic hikes in Zaleski.
]]>Indian Lake is a 5,000-acre lake that offers a wide variety of water-related recreational opportunities. Rent a jet ski from one of the nearby water sport shops or bring your own, then ride the waves by day, and warm yourself by the campfire at night.
Rocky Fork State Park is home to a 2,080-acre lake which is an ideal spot to go jet skiing on any warm day, but it's also a great place to catch some bass, muskellunge, or walleye fish if someone in your family is more of a fisherman! Spend a whole weekend at Rocky Fork.
South Bass Island is one of the top watersport enthusiast spots in all of Ohio! It's a tiny two-by-four-mile island, but the fun on the water goes on for days and days! Bring out your jet ski, or rent one from the shop, and then experience the joy of freedom on the water.
Geneva-on-the-Lake takes you to one of the all-time greatest jet skiing spots on scenic and massive Lake Erie. The whole town lives and breathes watersports, so even if you're just a rookie, you can rent a jet ski, and then get some specialized training and become a master in no time!
Cowan Lake State Park is home to a scenic and beautiful lake of nearly 1,000 acres and beautiful inlets laden with the American lotus water lily. It's a great place to take out the jet ski and then just relax on the water or on one of the many woodland trails!
]]>The acquisition of land for Pike State Forest began in 1924 with the objective of returning abused hill farms and damaged timber lands back to being productive forests. Now with over 12,084 acres of land, Pike State Forest has become an ATV off-roader's dream.
R Adventure Park in Hocking Hills, is the nation's first and only ATV rental and training facility focused on family-oriented riding. So if you've been holding off on taking the family off-roading, then wait no more, because R Adventure Park is exactly what you're looking for!
Renegade Ridge was founded only in 2010, but it has quickly become one of the premier ATV parks in Eastern Ohio. They're home to over 25 miles of well-kept and well-marked trails, so whether you're a beginner or a veteran, these trails are sure to be a blast.
Bear Creek Ranch KOA is home to dozens of fun outdoor activities when you're looking for an escape from the everyday, but none more fun than the miles and miles of trails available for ATV off-roading. With beautiful scenery, and a helpful, friendly staff, Bear Creek is a must-see.
Situated in the hills of southeastern Ohio, Wayne National Forest sprawls across a quarter million acres. More than 300 miles of trails are available for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV riding. Nothing quite compares to taking in the rustic beauty of the Applachian foothills on the back of an ATV.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>At Briarcliff MX, riders will find three different levels of motocross track, so it’s suitable for even the least experienced rider! There are 2.5 miles of trail loop to explore. The facility has a gradual to moderate elevation change (30-40 feet) making it a nice, well-rounded track.
TV Land MX is a massive dirt bike track with regularly-scheduled races and demos for you to enjoy or participate in. With rough terrain through the woods including rocks, water crossings, and many difficult obstacles, this track is not for the faint of heart.
Pusheta Creek MX Park is a long winding track that's ideal for dirt bikers both new and experienced. With no annual membership fees and standard open practice every day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can hone your skills or just have some fun here!
Route 62 MX was built off the feedback of real MX riders to ensure you get the greatest experience for your money. They have an indoor track for winter racing with pit stalls available. They have three outdoor tracks of varying degrees of difficulty, so there's something for everyone.
East Fork Motocross Park has tracks built through the woods as well as man-made dirt tracks of varying degrees of difficulty so there's something for every level of Motocross rider to enjoy and test their skills. Don't miss the East Fork MX Park!
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West Creek Reservation is a great place to go trail running, because they are dedicated to keeping the environment around them preserved, clean, and pristine. You'll appreciate the healthy and vibrant plant life on miles of running trails.
Three Creeks is named for the point where Alum Creek, Big Walnut Creek, and Blacklick Creek join as one. You'll be able to spot owls, blue herons, and more than one hundred different species of birds on your run. You might even spot a beaver, mink, coyote, or deer!
Little Beaver Creek Greenway is a great place for trail running for beginners and experts alike. The trail can accommodate mountain bikers, wheelchairs, cross-country skiers, or people just looking for a nice walk, too!
This 587-acre park makes for a wonderfully scenic trail run. The area also features a pristine 13-acre lake and a rustically beautiful forest. There are five trails to choose from to go for a run, including the .4-mile Lake Trail, the 1.2-mile Mitchell Ridge Trail, the 1.2-mile Wildcat Hollow Trail, the half-mile Greenbrier Trail, and the half-mile CCC Trail.
This 11-mile trail near Harrison County is among the best locations for running. The trail is located in the beautiful Appalachian foothills. The route is mostly easy, but can be relatively bumpy in certain areas. Keep in mind that this area is shared with cyclists and walkers, as well.
]]>Before your big day of off-roading, you're going to need to charge yourself up with a good breakfast and coffee. At the FullBrooks Cafe in Nelsonville, you can get a full hearty breakfast along with a few cups of great coffee, and top it off with a slice of homemade pie.
First and foremost, one of the best places to go off-roading in Ohio is the Tecumseh Trails in Hemlock, Ohio. If you consider yourself an off-roading enthusiast, then you need to check out the Tecumseh Trails with its vast landscape of streams and hills. With 1,000 acres of space and more than 45 miles of trails, this is an ATV rider’s paradise!
This New Lexington spot is a classic. The atmosphere at Sideliners is perfect after a long day—it’s a cozy space with funny and quirky decorations. This is a great place to unwind, have a couple of brews, and enjoy yourself.
If you just can't bring yourself to head back home yet, then you don't have to leave your amazing off-roading location. This rustic location with access to Wayne National Forest is great for hiking and having a picnic before you head home!
]]>Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places to go on a birdwatching hike because it's home to species of birds that are nearly impossible to see anywhere else. Bald eagles, yellow-rumped warblers, dunlins, and more, abound here! The refuge was established as a habitat for waterfowl and other migratory birds.
The Black Swamp Bird Observatory aims to inspire appreciation, enjoyment, and conservation of birds and their habits through education and outreach. At this lush observatory, catch sight of the gray-cheeked thrush, northern saw whet owls, and nearly 150,000 other birds! It’s simply incredible.
The Walborn Reservoir comprises nearly 2,500 acres of terrain and open water. Dozens of species of birds are native to the area and make their home in this reservoir. If you're looking for a great place to have a nice hike and watch beautiful birds, this is it.
The Birding Station at Jeffrey Point boasts almost 10,000 impressive acres of grassland, woodlands, wetlands, and more. The Birding Station features an immense array of bird species and serves as one of the most important birding areas in the state.
The Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area in Curtice is 558 acres of marshland on Lake Erie located 13 miles east of Toledo. The water levels that create the marsh environment provide optimum vegetation for wetland wildlife and unique species of birds.
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The Mohican River is a great way to spend a relaxing day kayaking down a slow-paced river that's especially great for new kayakers, and there's no shortage of kayaking supplies from rental stores nearby.
The Little Miami River is one of Ohio's most historic and beautiful areas. You can take your kayak through one of the most scenic rivers in the state, so it's a must-see experience for veteran kayakers and newcomers alike!
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Lake Erie is an Ohio vacation hot spot that is especially conducive for those just starting out with a kayak and a paddle. With dozens of species of fish, small, easy-going tributaries, and scenic views of the forestry for miles around, this is sure to be a memorable experience!
The Grand River stretches between two Great Lakes boasting 90 miles of scenic beauty, but it seems to be naturally designed to serve as a great kayaking spot for outdoor enthusiasts of every skill level. Whether you're looking for a relaxing scenic tour of nature or something a bit more challenging, the Grand River is a must!
Camp Hi on the American Heritage River is a prime spot for beginner kayakers because of its calm waters, scenic views, and accommodating guides. You can discover a new love for kayaking while not getting into white water danger in the process!
]]>Pick up all the bait you’ll need for your next fishing outing at Hamilton Bait & Tackle in Fairfield. This local shop carries live, frozen, and packaged bait as well as gear, rods, reels, and a variety of tackle.
For all kinds of bait and tackle, head to Harbor Bait and Tackle in Painesville. This shop carries all of the best bait for any fishing trip on Lake Erie and its surrounding tributaries.
At Mark’s Live Bait-Tackle and Ammo in Ravenna, you’ll find live bait and tackle and you can even get your fishing license before you head out for a day on the water. Mark’s Live Bait-Tackle and Ammo is also well-known for its large seasonal ice fishing inventory.
Go Fish & Go Hunt is your one-stop-shop for all fishing and hunting supplies. The shop is loaded with a variety of live bait and tackle for any type of fish you’re after.
Mary’s Bait Shop is a local shop serving Central Ohio for more than 40 years and specializing in fishing, hunting, and archery gear and supplies. Mary’s Bait Shop carries a large stock of specialty and staple fishing items, including hard and soft bait, lures, and more.
As a family owned and operated business, Rickard’s Bait and Tackle has you covered with all of the fishing supplies you need for a day out on Lake Erie. Whether you’re fishing walleye or bass, Rickard’s Bait and Tackle carries every type of bait for a catch.
Pozzie’s Lakeside Bait & Tackle in Lorain is a full-service fishing bait and tackle shop specializing in live bait. They also stock an extensive tackle inventory so you can be sure you have everything you need for great fishing on Lake Erie.
Head to Geneva Bait and Tackle for live bait, such as minnows and nightcrawlers, as well as fishing tackle, ice, and beverages. Find other supplies such as K.O. Wobblers, Tite-Lok rod holders, Hula Poppers, and more.
Centrally located in the walleye and smallmouth bass capital of the world, Hi-Way Bait, Tackle & Lodging is the best place to pick up fishing lures, live and frozen bait, ice, and more. Make sure to schedule in a stop at Hi-Way Bait, Tackle & Lodging when you’re planning your perfect fishing retreat.
On The Way Live Bait & Tackle in Cincinnati carries plenty of bait and tackle for a day or weekend out on the lake or river. If you’re a fishing enthusiasts, you’ll find worms, nightcrawler, crickets, and plenty more.
]]>Burr Oak State Park is one of the most gorgeous spots in Ohio to take a backpack out into the wilderness and enjoy the sights. The rustic allure in its 2,593-acre scenery of wooded hills and valley farms will have you coming back again and again.
Caesar Creek State Park is full of shimmering waters, dispersed woodlands, meadows, and ravines in 3,741 acres of gorgeous outdoors. You can take a boat out on the water and go fishing, spend the day hiking, and pitch a tent to sleep under the stars.
East Fork State Park is one of the largest state parks in Ohio encompassing over 4,800 acres of gorgeous greenery, rugged hills, and open meadows for one of the most scenic backpack camping trips you can find in the United States.
Tar Hollow State Park is a twisting park passed through forest roads in over 600 acres of deep ravines and dense woodlands. The rich greenery and vast variety of tree and plant species is sure to give you some of the best views you'll get on a camping trip!
Shawnee State Forest makes for a backpacker’s paradise. Here, you’ll find a 40-mile backpacking trail that meanders through rough terrain. This trek can be quite strenuous, so it’s recommended that you have some experience before taking on this challenge.
]]>If you’re in Ohio and looking for a great weekend getaway, then make your way to Hocking Hills State Park, one of the most popular recreational areas in the state. This sprawling park features miles of tranquil trails and waterfalls, as well as caves and cliffs for the more adventurous thrill-seekers.
Located in the Northern part of Hocking Hills State Park, Cantwell Cliffs is a remote hiking destination meant for more advanced hikers. It’s a challenging hike, but those who are up to the challenge will be rewarded with one of the most stunning views in all of Hocking County. The narrow trail winds through the deep valley, steep cliffs, and there is a rock shelter.
In the southernmost part of Hocking Hills State Park, visitors will encounter Ash Cave—the largest recess cave in the state. To get to the cave, visitors must make their way through a short but narrow gorge lined with incredible flora. Upon arrival at the cave, visitors can soak in the stunning views of the horseshoe-shaped cave and cascade.
Campers can head to Happy Hills, a beautiful campground located near the state park attractions that features both spacious campsites and cabins for larger parties. A stay at Happy Hills includes access to a private fishing lake, playground, and modern facilities for showering and doing laundry. Wi-Fi and cable television are also available throughout the campground so you won’t feel like you’re far from home!
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Just 20 minutes away from Hocking Hills State Park, a visit to the Logan Antique Mall is a must for any lover of antiques. Featuring over 100 vendors, visitors can comb through a variety of furniture, pottery, glassware, and memorabilia from every decade. Logan Antique Mall is also open seven days a week.
Another place not to miss in the scenic Hocking Hills is a visit to downtown Nelsonville. Dozens of galleries and retail shops line the streets carrying everything them from unique gifts, fine art, handmade soap, fabrics, antiques, and more. Special events are also on the schedule every month, so be sure to check the calendar when planning your visit.
For a comforting meal after a long day of exploring, head to Rhapsody, a casual fine dining restaurant located in downtown Nelsonville. Rhapsody is famous for its comfort food prepared from locally-grown produce and ingredients, such as house-made cheese spreads and locally-raised chicken dishes.
]]>This lake park is designated as a premier largemouth bass fishery. The use of gas-powered motors is prohibited, which makes this reservoir the perfect place for a quiet day of fishing. Currently, the lake is only open dawn to dusk from Friday through Sunday. It does have a boat ramp, fire rings, and picnic tables, but you won’t be able to camp on site. The town of Vinita is proud to have this lake open to the public for some excellent fishing.
The Wildlife Department stocks Medicine Creek with rainbow trout in the winter months, but the fishing here is good all year long. It’s family friendly and easy for kids to access because granite rock lines the banks of the creek. For anyone that needs to pick up live bait, ice, and other supplies before hitting the water, the Little Dam Bait Shop right in Medicine Park is a reliable option. After your day of fishing is through, you can enjoy restaurants and shops within walking distance.
Lake Eufaula is one of the premier vacation spots in Oklahoma, but it’s also one of the most popular fishing destinations. It’s the largest lake in Oklahoma. You’ll find bass, crappie, sunfish, catfish, and walleye. There is a kid’s pond, perfect for when you have youngsters not ready for the lake, and there’s even an enclosed fishing dock for colder months. Fishing is so popular in the area, the park has a tackle shop and a marina.
Grand Lake is one of the top bass fishing lakes in the country and it hosted the 2016 Bassmaster Classic. With more than 1,300 miles of shoreline, it might be difficult to figure out where to start, but the Bernice Area is a good place to put your line in the water and get a taste of what’s available. You’ll find smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie, multiple varieties of catfish, and hybrid stripers. People fish off the bridge and on the banks at the park. Check the fishing reports to make sure the lake levels aren’t too high to get into the park.
Lake Tenkiller is a water paradise with year-round fishing. The lake has black bass, striped bass, crappie, walleye, bream, and trout stocked in the river below the dam. You’ll find three heated fishing docks if you like to fish in the winter. Field and Stream ranked Lake Tenkiller as one of the best fishing holes in the country. There are plenty of places to put your boat in the water or just fish from the shore. You’ll also find many local resources to help you figure out the best spots around the lake to catch the fish you’re hoping. If you are coming in from the Tahlequah, Oklahoma, area and you’re in need of some gear for catching crappie, stop in at S & S Spoons for handmade crappie spoons.
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For all of your hiking, climbing, and exploration gear needs, head to Appalachian Outfitters in Peninsula. As one of Ohio’s largest outdoor specialty stores, Appalachian Outfitters carries an extensive lineup of products, sportswear, and gear that hikers love.
Outdoor Source is an independent outdoor retailer that specializes in the very best outdoor apparel and equipment for any hiking adventure. Based in Columbus, the dedicated staff can help you pick out the right gear from the best brands in the business, such as Patagonia, the North Face, Smartwool, and much more.
Benchmark is an independent outdoor shop located in Cincinnati that has been in the outfitting business since 1974. Beyond the extensive inventory and top-notch brands, Benchmark can offer hiking enthusiasts expert advice and help when it comes to finding tailor-fit gear that suits any outdoor needs.
Great Miami Outfitters is a premium supplier of outdoor and hiking gear, apparel, and supplies located in Dayton. This shop is conveniently located near the Twin Valley Backpack Trail and a vast park system so you can stock up on everything you need for a day out hiking. From trekking poles and water bottles to the best footwear and apparel, Great Miami Outfitters has it all.
Since 1932, Geiger’s has been the one-stop-shop for families looking for women's and men's clothing, footwear, accessories and gear for snow sports, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The locally-owned shop has expanded to three locations in Ohio and carries high-quality hiking boots and apparel in brands like Merrell, KEEN, Salomon, and more.
Kames Sports was founded in 1963 and provides Northeast Ohioans with a place to find high-quality outdoor gear for hunting, hiking, motocross, and everything in between. Be prepared for any hiking trip with apparel from brands like TRAILCREST, Rocky, and more.
Sun & Ski in Cincinnati specializes in making your outdoor dreams come true. This specialty shop offers the best in hiking gear, clothing, and shoes in brands like Salomon, Merrell, Sperry, and more. For friendly, personalized service and an easy shopping experience, make your way to Sun & Ski for everything hiking-related.
Delamere & Hopkins has been a Cincinnati staple among the outdoor community for over 23 years. This outdoor gear shop sells the best products and apparel for fishing, hiking, hunting, and any other outdoor pursuit. Not only do they provide the gear but they also organize a number of classes and trips for the local community to enjoy.
One of the most important things anyone who loves hiking must have is a great pair of shoes. If you’re in need of some fresh, comfortable gear for your feet, then head to Vertical Runner. This friendly specialty store has everything you need for a quick race or longer hiking adventure. Find locations in Brecksville, Hudson, and Wooster, Ohio.
The Backpackers Shop is a family-owned and operated shop that is well-equipped with the best in backpacking and hiking gear in the Cleveland area. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to lend a helping hand to help you pick out the right hiking footwear and accessories.
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The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls in Logan is the perfect alternative to winter camping in Ohio. Located in a peaceful setting, you’ll find several lodging cabins and cottages to choose from. Each cabin is designed so you can enjoy a dose of nature with modern amenities.
What’s better than a cozy cabin to escape the cold? A cozy cabin with a hot tub! At Oakwood Cabins in New Plymouth, you can enjoy a large hot hub, gas log fireplace, and a fully-equipped kitchen to make your winter getaway a memorable one.
The view from Ash Ridge Cabins is wonderful any time of the year. However, it’s especially amazing during the winter months. At Ash Ridge Cabins, you can relax in a steaming hot hub, cozy up by the fireplace, or sit on the porch and enjoy a hot cup of coffee at one of the many gorgeous cabins available.
For another warm and cozy cabin option, check out Lazy Lane Cabins in Logan. These comfortable cabins are located right near Hocking Hills State Park, Old Man’s Cave, and Ash Cave so you can enjoy a winter hike to see the frozen waterfalls and still hike back to a warm bed in the evening.
There’s nothing like beautiful fresh snow and you can enjoy it with a stay at one of Cherry Ridge Retreat’s luxury cabins. Located on 140 acres, these cabins are secluded, and offer a fireplace as well as everything else you might need to relax and keep warm in style.
Experience total relaxation in the beautiful woods at Evergreen Place cabins. These cabins are located near a number of Hocking Hills attractions and provide everything you—and up to seven of your family members or friends—need to enjoy a winter escape.
Blackfork Cabins in Perrysville offers rustic, unique cabins that any outdoor enthusiast will appreciate. During the winter months, stay cozy in one of the many cabins while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Mohican country.
The Chalets broke ground in 1988 and are home to some of the first cabins in the Hocking Hills area. With over 50 beautiful and comfortable cabins, there’s plenty of space for you to relax while surrounded by nature.
Mohican Pines Cabin Rentals is the perfect place to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature. Cozy up to the fire at one of the gorgeous cabins available for rent. Mohican Pines is an easy drive from Loudonville, Butler, Perrysville, and Ashland.
Buffalo Lodging Company offers a number of cozy cabins perfect for couples or small families as well as a few larger cabins that can hold 2-3 families. Every cabin is well-equipped with fresh decor, hot tubs, and outdoor fire pits, making this the perfect winter retreat.
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