Ohio destinations, parks and attractions

Are you going on a road trip to Ohio, looking for tips about the destinations so you and your party can enjoy it, be comfortable and not spend a fortune?

Here are some of the top destinations in Ohio and tips about visiting them

National parks and monuments in Ohio

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, Xenia, OH.

Throughout his life, Charles Young overcame countless obstacles in his ascent to prominence. In spite of overt racism and stifling inequality, Young rose through the military ranks to become one of the most respected leaders of his time. A well-rounded man with a steadfast devotion to duty, Young led by example and inspired a generation of new leaders.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Cleveland and Akron, OH.

Though a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. Walk or ride the Towpath Trail to follow the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal.
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park, Dayton, OH.

Three exceptional men from Dayton, Ohio, Wilbur Wright, Orville Wright and Paul Laurence Dunbar, found their creative outlet here through accomplishments and failures, and finally success. However, these men offered the world something far greater, they offered the world hope, and the ability to take a dream and make it a reality.
First Ladies National Historic Site, Canton, OH.

First Ladies National Historic Site consists of two properties in downtown Canton, Ohio - the home of First Lady Ida Saxton-McKinley and a small visitor center with an exhibit and film. Come learn about how the position of First Lady has evolved over time to include a public role.
Hopewell Culture National Historic Park, Chillicothe, OH.

Nearly 2000 years ago, American Indians built dozens of monumental mounds and earthen enclosures in southern Ohio. These earthwork complexes were ceremonial landscapes used for feasts, funerals, rituals, and rites of passage associated with an American Indian religious movement that swept over half the continent for almost 400 years. Come walk among the earthworks and experience the past.
James A Garfield National Historic Site, Mentor, OH.

A front porch can serve many purposes. For some, it is a place to enjoy the breeze on a warm summer night. For others, a perch from which to keep eyes on what's happening in their neighborhood. In 1880, James Garfield used his front porch as a platform to greet thousands of well-wishers during his presidential campaign. Today, the porch serves as a gateway to the story of the Garfield family.
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, Sixteen States: IA,ID,IL,IN,KS,KY,MO,MT,NE,ND,OH,OR,PA,SD,WA,WV.

The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail is approximately 4,900 miles long, extending from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the mouth of the Columbia River, near present day Astoria, Oregon. It follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition as well as the preparatory section from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Wood River, Illinois.
North Country National Scenic Trail, Seven States-New York to North Dakota MI,MN,ND,NY,OH,PA,VT,WI.

Come to the North Country. Trek the hills and valleys. Stand on the shores of lakes and streams from glaciers 10,000 years before. Clear-flowing water, red/gold of autumn, a fairyland of snow, open prairies, and distant horizons paint the land. Historic sites along the way tell how America settled and grew as a nation. From North Dakota to Vermont, adventure is never far away.
Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, Put-in-Bay, OH.

Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial was established to honor those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie, during the War of 1812, and to celebrate the long-lasting peace among Great Britain, Canada and the U.S. The Memorial, a Doric column, rising 352 feet over Lake Erie is situated 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world.
William Howard Taft National Historic Site, Cincinnati, OH.

High atop one of Cincinnati's most prominent hilltops stands the two-story Greek Revival house where William Howard Taft was born and grew up. Hard work, a good education, and an interest in civic duty are attributes that made the Taft family outstanding leaders over the years. The environment that shaped Taft's character and philosophy is highlighted on a visit to the site.

Ohio State parks and historic sites

Alum Creek StatePark - Located near Ohio's capital city, Alum Creek is a popular boating, camping, and biking destination.
Madison LakeStates Park -Lying within the vast Darby Plains of Ohio, Madison Lake State Park provides a peaceful day-use getaway for visitors of all ages. The 106-acre lake attracts anglers and offers excellent sailing, rowing and canoeing opportunities.
A.W. MarionStates Park -This rural park offers rolling woodlands and the quiet waters of Hargus Lake which offers fishing, boating, camping, and hiking.
Buckeye LakeStates Park -Ohio's oldest state park remains a beloved day-use destination. The 3,100-acre lake provides wonderful boating and fishing.
Deer CreekStates Park -In the heart of Ohio's agricultural country of Pickaway and Fayette Counties, this resort park offers a modern lodge, cabins, large family campground and loads of boating and recreational amenities.
DelawareStates Park -Lush woodlands, expansive meadows and a shimmering 1,300-acre reservoir blend to create Delaware State Park located in central Ohio, north of Columbus.
Buck Creek StatePark - Located in west-central Clark County, Buck Creek State Park encompasses C.J. Brown Reservoir and is surrounded by rich agricultural lands.
Lake LoganStates Park -In the rolling Appalachian foothills of southeastern Hocking Valley, Lake Logan is one of the best fishing lakes in the state. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day on the secluded 400-acre lake or take a scenic stroll.
Mt Gilead StatePark - Located in Morrow County near the center of the state, Mt. Gilead State Park is a peaceful, wooded park. The 191-acre park offers picnicking, fishing and hiking as well as a full-service campground.
Great SealStates Park -The history of the Shawnee nation and Ohio's early statehood is centered in the rugged hills of Great Seal State Park. The COVID-19 State Memorial is also located at Great Seal.
Tar HollowStates Park -Tar Hollow State Park’s twisting park and forest roads pass through dense woodlands. Located in southeast Ohio, popular activities include camping, hiking, and wildlife watching.
Hocking Hills StatePark - Located in southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park has received national and international acclaim as a top park to visit.
Dillon StatePark - Located near Newark, this large park with modern campground and cozy cabins offers hiking, fishing, boating, stargazing, and sledding in winter.
John BryanStates Park -John Bryan, in western Ohio, offers 752 acres of scenery plus a stunning limestone gorge cut by the Little Miami State and National Scenic River. Great spot for hiking and camping.
Scioto TrailStates Park -Nestled within the beautiful 9,000-acre Scioto Trail State Forest in Ross County, Scioto Trail State Park’s 218-acres are a wooded refuge just south of Chillicothe.
Kiser LakeStates Park -The quiet and relaxing atmosphere of Kiser Lake State Park makes it a favorite Ohio getaway for camping, fishing, and paddling.
Lake Hope StatePark - Located in southeastern Ohio, the 2,983-acre Lake Hope State Park is a natural paradise. The entire park lies within the 28,614-acre Zaleski State Forest in the valley of Big Sandy Run.
Malabar Farm StatePark - Located in Pleasant Valley of Richland County, Malabar Farm represents the diversity of the glaciated Appalachian Plateau region and was the dream of the Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Louis Bromfield.
Paint Creek StatePark - Located amid the breathtaking scenery of the Paint Creek Valley in southwest Ohio, the 5,652-acre Paint Creek State Park features a 1,148-acre lake with fine fishing, boating, swimming and camping opportunities.
Mohican StatePark - Located in northeastern Ohio, the 1,110-acre Mohican State Park and the adjacent 4,525-acre state forest offer outstanding opportunities for visitors to explore one of Ohio's most stunning natural regions.
Burr OakStates Park -Visitors find a blend of modern convenience and wilderness spirit here. Burr Oak offers a rustic full-service lodge with family suites and a cozy campground with easy access to the lake.
Pike LakeStates Park -587-acre Pike Lake State Park is located in the midst of the scenic wooded hills of southern Ohio. The small 13-acre lake is surrounding by state forest lands contributing to the park's rustic charm.
Indian Lake StatePark - Located in west-central Ohio, Indian Lake State Park offers 5,100 acres of water for a variety of on-the-water recreational opportunities. Visitors can camp, boat, fish, jet-ski, swim, and picnic at this year-round destination.
Lake WhiteStates Park -Picturesque 333-acre Lake White is nestled between the ridges of southern Ohio's rugged hills. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy boating, water skiing and fishing at this scenic 92-acre park.
Rocky Fork StatePark - Located in southern Ohio, Rocky Fork offers a variety of outdoor activities including camping, fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. The campground features a variety of sites, perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
Blue RockStates Park -Surrounded by rich agricultural lands, this region was home to both Native Americans and early pioneers. A large reservoir offers a variety of boating and fishing options.
Caesar Creek StatePark - Located in southwest Ohio, the 3,741-acre Caesar Creek State Park offers some of the finest outdoor recreation in Ohio amidst the park's sprawling lakes, wildlife areas, meadows and ravines.
Cowan Lake StatePark - Located in southwest Ohio, this 1,775-acre park offers a peaceful lake setting complete with scenic inlets and wooded shoreline. Swimming, fishing, sailing, and kayaking are popular at the lake.
Lake AlmaStates Park -In the midst of some of Ohio's most rugged, scenic territory of Jackson and Vinton counties lies 292-acre Lake Alma State Park. A quiet 60-acre lake and a gentle creek meandering through a wooded valley provide a restful setting for park visitors.
Strouds RunStates Park -A total of 2,606 acres of uninterrupted hardwood forest sprawl over the many hills and coves of Strouds Run State Park. The rugged terrain and scenic lake provide visitors a unique wilderness escape in southeastern Ohio.
Jesse OwensStates Park -Jesse Owens State Park is a success story in environmental stewardship, conservation and reclaiming land for outdoor recreation.
SycamoreStates Park -Sycamore State Park, located in western Ohio, is the perfect retreat for groups of all sizes. Several group camp areas provide unique overnight options.
Lake LoramieStates Park -The 913-acre Lake Loramie and surrounding park offer a quiet retreat in rural western Ohio. Amenities include family campground, sandy beach and hiking trails on the historic canal towpath.
Wolf RunStates Park -The rugged hills of southeastern Ohio provide the setting for 1,046 acres of scenic woodlands and cool, clean waters in Noble County.
Jackson LakeStates Park -Although relatively small, 106-acre Jackson Lake State Park boasts some of the most scenic country in Ohio. The park's serene lake is a focal point for excellent fishing and provides the ideal setting for a peaceful retreat.
StonelickStates Park -Tucked away in the rolling highlands of southwest Ohio, 1,058-acre Stonelick State Park offers a quiet retreat for visitors.
Salt Fork StatePark - Located in eastern Ohio, Salt Fork State Park encompasses a diverse and beautiful landscape. This magnificent area is Ohio’s largest state park, with 17,229 acres and a resort lodge.
Little MiamiStates Park -This linear park offers 50 miles of paved trail and paddling access along the Little Miami State and National Scenic River.
Adams Lake StatePark - Located in Ohio's Bluegrass region -- one of the state's most scenic and interesting areas -- Adams Lake State Park has much to offer true nature lovers.
Shawnee StatePark - Located in the Appalachian foothills near the banks of the Ohio River, Shawnee State Park is nestled in Shawnee State Forest. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, boating, and camping.
Van BurenStates Park -Originally inhabited by the Shawnee, the area surrounding Van Buren State Park is rich in woods and agricultural lands. The park's 296 acres offer a calm, peaceful retreat with camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking opportunities.
Forked RunStates Park -Forested hills, a picturesque lake and the lazy Ohio River characterize 791-acre Forked Run State Park.
Grand Lake St MarysStates Park -Originally constructed as a feeder reservoir for the Miami-Erie Canal, Grand Lake St. Marys offers boating, fishing, camping and more.
East ForkStates Park -One of Ohio's largest state parks, East Fork offers boating, hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities in southwest Ohio, just a short drive away from Cincinnati.
Findley StatePark - Located in northeast Ohio, the 838-acre Findley State Park offers camping, paddling, fishing, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, and picnic shelters.
Hueston WoodsStates Park -Modern facilities and outdoor adventures await at Hueston Woods State Park. A large campground offers electric and non-electric pet-friendly sites and a comprehensive equestrian camp area.
Portage LakesStates Park -Outside of Akron, the most popular activities at this day-use park include boating, swimming, and fishing.
BarkcampStates Park -Discover what Ohio's forests looked like prior to settlement. The park's picturesque hills and quiet lake offers tranquil camping, fishing, hiking, and paddling experiences.
East HarborStates Park -Ohio’s 1,831-acre East Harbor State Park, located on the shores of Lake Erie, has unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Marblehead LighthouseStates Park -Marblehead Lighthouse is one of Lake Erie's best known and most-photographed landmarks.
Mary Jane ThurstonStates Park -Situated along the historic Maumee River in northwest Ohio, Mary Jane Thurston State Park offers a variety of day-use and overnight activities.
Catawba Island StatePark - Located in northwest Ohio, Catawba Island State Park is a small, 10-acre day use park that primarily provides boating access to Lake Erie.
Quail HollowStates Park -Quail Hollow is a 701-acre landscape of rolling meadows, marshes, and pine and deciduous woods surrounding a 40-room manor. Scenic woodland trails, gardens and the house offer a variety of natural and cultural experiences for visitors.
Wingfoot LakeStates Park -Outside Akron, Wingfoot Lake offers visitors numerous ways to spend their day outsides. The wooded hills and picturesque lake create a relaxing backdrop for paddling, fishing, or miniature golf.
Independence DamStates Park -525-acre Independence Dam State Park is situated along the banks of the beautiful Maumee River. The river is ideal for boating, fishing or a scenic canoe trip.
Kelleys IslandStates Park -Kelleys Island State Park is located on the northern shores of Kelleys Island, along Lake Erie. Camping, boating, fishing, swimming, and birdwatching are popular activities.
South Bass IslandStates Park -Perched atop the white cliffs of South Bass Island in Lake Erie, this unique 33-acre park offers camping, fishing, and swimming near one of Ohio's top tourist destinations-- Put-In-Bay.
Oak PointStates Park -This 1.5-acre park is a companion to South Bass Island State Park. It is a lovely location to watch the sunrise.
Middle Bass IslandStates Park -Middle Bass Island is situated in the western basin of Lake Erie. A boater's paradise, the park offers visitors a glimpse at Ohio's glacial and cultural past.
Jefferson LakeStates Park -Tucked away in eastern Ohio, Jefferson Lake State Park is one of Ohio's quieter parks. Nestled in oak and hickory wooded hills, this 962-acre park offers privacy and peaceful scenery in all seasons.
Maumee BayStates Park -Maumee Bay State Park offers 1,336 acres of the finest of recreational facilities in the Midwest in a unique natural lakeside environment for Lake Erie.
North Bass IslandStates Park -North Bass Island State Park is a 593-acre primitive getaway for island enthusiasts. The park offers primitive camping, hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching, and shoreline fishing.
Tinkers CreekStates Park -Tinkers Creek State Park is currently managed by Summit Metroparks as part of Liberty Park.
Guilford Lake StatePark - Located in northeast Ohio on the west fork of the Little Beaver Creek, Guilford Lake State Park offers a quiet fishing lake and lakeside camping.
West Branch StatePark - Located near Akron, the park's large modern campground offers full service sites and easy access to boating, fishing and hiking.
Lake MiltonStates Park -Nearly 1,700 acres of the best recreational waters in Ohio are found at Lake Milton State Park. Boating, swimming and fishing are popular at this day-use park. Its scenic shoreline provides habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds.
Harrison Lake StatePark - Located in the midst of gently rolling hills in northwest Ohio, the 142-acre Harrison Lake State Park offers wooded splendor in an agricultural region.
Beaver Creek StatePark - Located in Northeast Ohio, the park’s wilderness and rugged landscape offers visitors a true outdoor adventure.
Punderson StatePark - Located in northeast Ohio, this 741-acre features a natural lake, resort manor house, family cabins, golf course, and scenic family campground.
Nelson-Kennedy LedgesStates Park -The 167-acre Nelson-Kennedy Ledges offers rugged cliffs and diverse plant life. A day-use park, it is popular for picnicking and hiking.
Mosquito Lake StatePark - Located in northeast Ohio, Mosquito Lake is one of the largest lakes in Ohio with over 7,000 acres of surface area. Facilities include campground, boat launch ramps, dog park, and disc golf course.
Headlands BeachStates Park -This day-use park in northeast Ohio offers a half-mile-long natural sand beach, the largest in the state. Spend the day at the beach, fishing, or paddling the waters of Lake Erie.
Geneva StatePark - Located on Ohio's northeastern shoreline, 698-acre Geneva State Park reflects the character and charisma of Lake Erie.
PymatuningStates Park -On the Ohio-Pennsylvania border, Pymatuning Lake is one of the finest walleye and muskellunge lakes in the country. The park offers cozy cabins, large campground plus a variety of land and on-the-water fun.

Ohio Seasons, bugs, topography and climate

Ohio's weather goes from one extreme to the other. Summer are hot, with temperatures reaching up to 90°F (32°C) and moderate humidity. Winters are cold with snow in northern Ohio, especial lake-effect snows near Lake Erie. Year round, the southern part of the state experiences slightly warmer temperatures.

Ohio Camping tips

Ohio State Parks (866-OHIOPARKS or reserveohio.com)

Many state park campgrounds are open year-round for four seasons of fun. Reservations, which can be made up to six months in advance, are required to book your cozy campsite. Rates and amenities vary by park.

Visit the reservation site to choose a campground, type of campsite, and dates of arrival.

Although facilities may differ at individual state parks, each campsite includes level parking pad, a picnic table, and a fire ring.

Make, Cancel or Change a Reservation

Contact an Office

State Park Offices

Watercraft Offices

There are both state parks and private campgrounds in Ohio.