Ohio has 76 state parks; here are 10 that are among the most popular with visitors

CAMBRIDGE – August has arrived full swing, and with Ohio celebrating the 75th anniversary of its state parks system in 2024, it's a perfect time visit to one of the 76 locations for a worthwhile outing.

“There really hasn’t been a better time to visit your local park in the 75-year history of the Division of Parks and Watercraft then now," said Adam Sikora, manager of Salt Fork State Park in Lore City. "Our current administration understands the importance of parks to the people of Ohio and has taken the initiative to pour millions of dollars into park facilities across the state as visitation continues to soar.

"Salt Fork is very fortunate to have seen many improvements over the past few years and we are extremely excited about what’s to come in the very, near future."

Visitors can explore the natural beauty of Ohio’s biggest state park or take advantage of hiking, fishing, archery, Bigfoot and more. Salt Fork’s activities are numerous and are sure to keep you busy throughout your visit.

Here's a list of 10 popular state parks in Ohio:

1. Hocking Hills State Park

Considered Ohio’s most popular park, Hocking Hills, located in Logan, has received national and international acclaim as a top place to visit. The natural history of the region is written in the Black Hand Sandstone. Natural features, such as towering cliffs, waterfalls, and deep, hemlock-shaded gorges, provide endless scenic views in every season with distinct areas such as Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, Rock House and Whispering Cave. Amenities include a classy lodge, visitor’s center, campground with pool, cabins, picnic areas and a small fishing lake.

2. Buckeye Lake State Park

Discover Ohio’s oldest state park, a cherished day-use gem located in Millersport. Once a feeder lake for Ohio’s canal system in the 1800s, Buckeye Lake has been a magnet for tourists since the canal era ended in the early 1900s. In the 1940s and ‘50s, it was a hotspot for visitors with an amusement park and dance hall. Today, the park continues to enchant with boating, fishing, and hunting year-round. The 4.1-mile shoreline path provides shoreline access for anglers of all abilities, connecting North Shore to Lieb’s Island.

3. Kelleys Island State Park

No other state park offers a better look at Ohio’s glacial past than Kelleys Island. The island was shaped during the glacial period when massive ice sheets gouged and scoured the bedrock, eventually forming Lake Erie. Evidence of the glaciers, in the form of a large tract of glacial grooves, are visible, just a short walk from the campground. Stunning Lake Erie views can be experienced from the family-friendly beach or from the campground’s waterfront sites. Several nearby nature preserves offer excellent hiking and birdwatching opportunities.

4. Salt Fork State Park

Ohio’s largest state park, Salt Fork encompasses a stunning landscape featuring forested hills, open meadows and misty valleys decorated with winding streams. With thousands of acres of land and water, the park has something for every outdoor enthusiast. Navigate the shimmering waters with two marinas and launch ramps, traverse challenging trails catering to all levels of hikers, unravel history at the iconic Kennedy Stone House, or play golf at the top-rated 18-hole course. Overnight accommodations include a full service lodge, campground and cozy cabins.

5. Indian Lake State Park

Located in Lakeview, the landscape of the Indian Lake region was shaped by Ohio’s Ice Age, with clusters of shallow, marshy lakes. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the large wetland area in the northeastern end of the park. Once a shallow feeder lake for the Miami & Erie Canal in the 19th century, it blossomed into a beloved resort post-canal era. Today, Indian Lake offers on-the-water adventures like boating, fishing, jet skiing and swimming. On land, enjoy camping, picnicking and winter delights, including ice fishing and snowmobiling.

6. John Bryan State Park

The beauty of every season is on display at John Bryan State Park in Yellow Springs. Explore the limestone gorge, a National Natural Landmark cut by the Little Miami State and National Scenic River. With 10 diverse trails, including a public rock climbing area, the park offers splendid views for hikers. Paddlers can access the river from a launch area outside the park. Enjoy a shady campground, picturesque picnic spots and a seasonal day lodge.

7. Shawnee State Park

This Appalachian region was once used as hunting grounds by the Shawnee people. Shawnee means “those who have silver” because the Shawnee conducted considerable silver trade. As European settlers transformed the landscape in the 1700s, the region earned the moniker “the Little Smokies” for its rugged beauty. Shawnee State Park, located in Portsmouth, offers a full-service lodge, cabins and two campground areas including the new Ohio River Campground, as well as boating and fishing across two lakes. Hiking and bridle trails traverse the park and the neighboring state forest. An equestrian camp is also available.

8. Wingfoot Lake State Park

A day-use park near Mogadore, Wingfoot Lake features groves of tall trees, expansive grassy areas and a picturesque lake create a relaxing backdrop for paddling, fishing or miniature golf. Once owned by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, the park joined the state system in 2009. Spot the iconic Goodyear blimp on clear days in its hangar on the lake’s south shore. Six large picnic shelters, some featuring large fireplaces, combined with paved trails, ball courts and a disc golf course make Wingfoot Lake a great gathering place.

9. Sycamore State Park

A wooded oasis amidst vast farmland in Trotwood, Sycamore State Park's group camp areas provide unique overnight options, including one camp for 100 people with restrooms and a day-use barn, and another with a small barn, open shelter, restrooms and camping for 40 people. A primitive camp for guests with horses offers water, latrines and tie-ups. Daytime activities feature paddling, fishing, hiking, horseback riding and amenities like picnic shelters and an archery range, ensuring a memorable and varied experience.

10. Lake Hope State Park

Lake Hope in McArthur is nestled within the Zaleski State Forest in the valley of Big Sandy Run, Lake Hope State Park’s heavily forested landscape is adorned with steep gorges and narrow ridges, offering glimpses of abandoned mining and iron-producing industries. The park has a family campground, cabins and the Laurel Lodge.

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This article originally appeared on The Daily Jeffersonian: Which Ohio state park has the most visitors?