Posts with tag 'Parks'

Did you know that every June 15 is Nature Photography Day? While there's never a bad time to capture the natural beauty of Ohio, this day provides the perfect excuse to explore the scenery of your favorite communities and take some great photos in the process. Whether you're exploring glacial, urban waterfalls in Northeast Ohio, gorgeous gardens around Columbus, or an ancient, world-renowned historic site near Cincinnati, you're sure to capture something special. Start your photography journey with our guide to nine of the best places around Ohio to capture nature for Nature Photography Day.

Berea Falls Scenic Overlook

136 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, OH 44017

One of the cool things about Ohio cities is how opportunities for nature photography are seamlessly integrated into urban landscapes. The Berea Falls Scenic Overlook, located a short drive from the heart of Cleveland, is one great example. After the glaciers receded following the last ice age, melting water formed rivers that reshaped the landscape. The Berea Falls were created by water from the Rocky River, carved through the abundant sandstone around Berea. There's so much natural beauty to capture here, with a different look every season.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

6947 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

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Also located a short drive from Cleveland is the vast Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which features some of the most spectacular scenery that you'll find anywhere in Ohio. The park is located around the Cuyahoga River, with a mix of forests, rolling meadows, and farmland, all connected with an extensive, well-maintained trail system. Brandywine Falls is one of the most popular natural sites within the park and a perfect destination to seek out for nature photography. There's a viewing deck near the falls that makes it easy to get a great photo, as well as a nearby trail that allows you to capture images from various angles.

Mill Creek Park

123 McKinley Ave., Youngstown, OH 44509

Did you know that Ohio is home to the second-largest metropark in the United States, behind only Central Park in New York City? Mill Creek Park covers more than 2,500 acres, with a diverse selection of attractions located within park borders. There are beautiful gardens, lush wetlands, waterfront scenery, historic structures, and so much more to capture. Spend your day near the historic Lanterman's Mill, the Fellows Riverside Gardens, or the Ford Nature Center. The D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center is the ideal place to start your journey at Mill Creek Park.

Topiary Park

480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

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If you love art just as much as you love nature, then the Topiary Park in Columbus is one destination on our list that you definitely won't want to miss. It's home to one of the world's largest, most impressive topiary gardens, with 80 perfectly maintained life-size topiaries. The topiaries are laid out in a way that recreates a painting from the post-Impressionist era painter Georges Seurat.

Historic Clifton Mill

75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316

Located less than an hour west of Columbus, you'll find the idyllic, natural setting of Historic Clifton Mill. Home to one of the few working grist mills in Ohio, Historic Clifton Mill is a great destination for blending nature and historical photography. The mill itself is a beautiful structure, which has been preserved to look and work just as it did during its heyday. The natural woodlands, serene creek, and gently flowing waterfalls surrounding the mill provide endless opportunities for capturing the perfect photo.

Schnormeier Gardens

8701 Laymon Rd., Gambier, OH 43022

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With more than 50 acres of beautifully manicured gardens to explore, Schnormeir Gardens will keep you coming back again and again for nature photography. Many of the gardens here were created in the Chinese and Japanese styles, with abundant water features blending in with natural scenery. There are lakes, waterfalls, streams, woodlands, bridges, and beautiful, exotic plants to discover. Spring and summer are ideal times to visit for photography, with so many of the plants within the gardens in full bloom.

Loveland Castle

12075 Shore Dr., Loveland, OH 45140

Part historic landmark, part tribute to an order of knights, Loveland Castle is unlike any other destination on our list. It is, after all, a castle that looks like it was plucked straight from the medieval era and dropped into modern-day Ohio. The castle itself is more than worthy of some dedicated time with the camera, and the natural beauty around Loveland Castle makes this a fun destination for nature photography. While you're there, check out the on-site museum to learn more about how and why a stone castle was built in the 1920s around the corner from Cincinnati.

Serpent Mound Historical Site

3850 OH-73, Peebles, OH 45660

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Here's another truly unique destination with a history that stretches back thousands of years to a time when Ohio looked very different than it does today. The Serpent Mound was built by the Adena tribe of Native Americans who called the area home thousands of years ago, stretching for 1,300 feet and built in the shape of a serpent. It's the largest effigy mound of its kind in the world and still stands out among the wooded, hilly landscape even after thousands of years. So if you want to capture something unique to Ohio which can't be found anywhere else, this is the perfect place to find it.

Krohn Conservatory

1501 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202

The Cincinnati area is also home to some more conventional locations for nature photography, including some like the Krohn Conservatory, which doesn't even require you to leave the city. Created in 1933, the Krohn Conservatory is home to thousands of plants from around the world, with different "houses" holding plants from different parts of the world. The Palm House replicates a tropical rainforest environment, while the Desert House is attuned to plants that thrive in an arid, hot landscape with minimal rainfall. The Krohn Conservatory is also home to the Orchid House, which showcases orchids from all around the world, and the John Carroll Bonsai Gallery, which highlights the unique techniques used to grow bonsai trees.

Frame Your Next Ohio Adventure

These nine destinations are just the start of what you'll find in Ohio. From limestone caverns deep underground to the rolling, rustic landscape of Amish Country, there's so much to explore. What will you capture next?

Ohio is such a beautiful state, offering so many lovely opportunities for family vacations and quick getaways. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to relax or a grand adventure to get the adrenaline pumping, Ohio is the place to be. Here are nine places to consider taking your family for a memorable summer vacation. 

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Peninsula, OH 44264

Cuyahoga National Park is a 33,000-acre park in Northeast Ohio. Inside the park, you can follow the 87-mile towpath along the Cuyahoga River, admire Brandywine Falls, and take a tour of the wetlands. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs through the park, and rides are just $5 a person. Visitors also enjoy the Canal Exploration Center, where they can learn about the construction and early operation of the canal.

If you're looking for places to stay, there are several options inside Cuyahoga National Park, including the Inn at Brandywine Falls and the Stanford House, a nine-bedroom, historic home. 

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870

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Those who love an adrenaline rush will enjoy a vacation at Cedar Point, one of the nation's largest amusement parks. Located in Sandusky, the park offers 17 roller coasters, a thrilling water park, and an endless selection of kid-friendly rides. There's also an on-site mini-golf course, musical performances, brew tours, and more.

Cedar Point is also known for its beach. Along the shores of Lake Erie, this beach has soft sand, quiet waters, and paddleboard rentals. There are plenty of hotels in and around Sandusky, within easy reach of the park. Some guests also stay at Lighthouse Point, the on-site RV campground.

Downtown Dayton

Dayton, OH 45402

If you prefer a faster-paced, more urban vacation spot, then a trip to downtown Dayton could be perfect for your family. Dayton is a mid-sized city about an hour from Columbus with many fun attractions. If you stay in a hotel downtown, you'll be within easy reach of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and Dayton Art Institute.

Another great place to visit in Dayton is the Wright Cycle Company Complex. Here, you can learn how Orville and Wilbur Wright, the inventors of the airplane, once made and sold bicycles.

Amish Country

Millersburg, OH 44654

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Ohio's Amish Country is centered in and around Millersburg in Holmes County, home to about 37,000 Amish people. This quiet community is a lovely place to relax in nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can browse local shops selling baked goods, locally made cheese, and crafts. Eat at a real Amish restaurant, or learn about Amish culture on a guided tour. There are plenty of places to stay in Amish Country, including some quaint bed and breakfasts and RV parks. 

Put-in Bay

Put-in-Bay, OH 43456

Put-in-Bay is a village on the island of South Bass in Lake Erie. The village and surrounding island offer fun for all ages. There are several wineries to explore, and guests can go hiking at Oak Point State Park or South Bass Island State Park. Perry's Cave Family Fun Center offers a mini-golf course, butterfly house, and a climbing wall, along with tours of the limestone caves. 

Several ferries offer service to and from South Bass Island from the mainland. Once on the island, most people stay in a lakeside cottage or condo for the duration of their vacation.

Hocking Hills State Park

Logan, OH 43138

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Hocking Hills State Park is a great place to immerse yourself in nature. The park offers seven hiking areas, including Rock House and Ash Cave. Old Man's Cave is a popular mountain biking trail offering both a medium and hard loop for bikers of various skill levels. The park also offers guided nature tours throughout the week, many of which are designed with kids in mind.

There are cabins for rent on-site in Hocking Hills State Park. They also offer both RV and primitive tent cabin sites. Guests can enjoy on-site dining at Hocking Hills State Park Dining Lounge. The park is a short drive from Cincinnati, making it convenient for weekend getaways.

Downtown Cleveland

Cleveland, OH 44113

A vacation in downtown Cleveland is a great choice for families who like museums and a faster pace. The downtown area is quite walkable, offering attractions like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Cleveland Museum of Art. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is fun for all ages, too.

Those who love nature may enjoy a visit to Cleveland's Edgewater Beach or the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve. West Side Market is a popular destination for "foodies," selling locally grown produce and prepared foods.

Marietta

Marietta, OH 45750

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Marietta is one of the first towns settled in the Northwest Territory of the United States. As such, it's rich with history and a great place to visit with family. Learn about the village's history at the Campus Martius Museum or the Ohio River Museum, or see a show at the historic Peoples Bank Theater.

There are plenty of historic homes to admire in Marietta. Nature lovers often enjoy walking or cycling along the Marietta River Trail or watching the sunset along the Ohio River. Marietta has a bustling restaurant scene with plenty of cafes, Italian restaurants, and barbecue joints.

Village of Marblehead

Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440

Marblehead is a tiny village on the Marblehead Peninsula along Lake Erie. The population is just under 1,000, although the village does receive a lot of tourism in the summer months. Once in Marblehead, you can relax on the sandy beaches, sip wine at one of the island's wineries, or browse the art galleries.

Marblehead is known for its lighthouse and the longest continually lit U.S. lighthouse on the Great Lakes. It was also the first lighthouse to employ a female lightkeeper. In the summer, guests can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy a stunning view of Lake Erie and its islands.  

Relax in Ohio

Where will you vacation in this great state? From nature to museums, there truly is something for every family.

With signs of habitation dating back to 13,000 BC, Ohio has a rich and colorful past. No matter what you learned in history books, it can't compare to seeing it with your own eyes. Whether it's a castle in Northeast Ohio, a covered bridge near Columbus, or a library in Cincinnati, a visit to these incredible sites will give you a new appreciation of our state.

Squire's Castle

North Chagrin Reservation, 2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094

If you're fascinated by the fictional royalty of Game of Thrones or real-life royalty of Queen Elizabeth and her family, don't miss Squire's Castle. Located at North Chagrin Reservation, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890s and patterned after German and English baronial castles. The gatehouse also serves as the trailhead for one of the North Chagrin's more scenic routes, and there's an adjacent picnic area that includes grills and seating. North Chagrin Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Maltz Performing Arts Center

Case Western Reserve University, 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

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The design and backstory of Maltz Performing Arts Center are as compelling as the events that take place inside it. Founded in 1850 as a temple for the local Reform Jewish congregation, the building has a unique heptagonal shape to fit the lot's odd configuration while approximating a circle, symbolizing unity. Thanks to the creative architecture and stunning interior, the building was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. A partnership between the Temple and Case Western Reserve University led to the creation of the Performing Arts Center, which hosts a number of concerts, lectures, and other cultural activities.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303

While many historical buildings bear the name of their original residents, that's not the case with Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term that translates to "stone quarry," which is a nod to the property's most prominent natural feature. The estate served as the home for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, but they also generously opened their doors to the public for frequent community events. Hours are 10 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for ages 6-17.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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Natural and man-made history combine to spectacular effect at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The 13-acre facility, located just two miles from downtown Columbus, is anchored by the John D. Wolfe Palm House. This glass greenhouse, which dates back to 1895, features 43 species of palms, including fiddle-leaf figs that were part of the original plantings. Seasonal and visiting exhibitions supplement the lush gardens and botanical biomes on permanent display. Franklin Park Conservatory is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.

Decorative Arts Center of Ohio

145 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130

Do you think of art as something that requires specialized skill or talent? The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio has a mission to awaken the creative spirit in everyone. Programming includes themed exhibits, classes, workshops, and lectures aimed at making art accessible to all. Welcome the new year with the upcoming exhibit, "Hindsight: The Art of Looking Back," which is particularly appropriate for exploring the past. "Classrooms" are located in the Reese-Peters House, a Federal/Greek Revival-style home built in 1835 and widely acclaimed as the finest house in Lancaster. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Mink Hollow Covered Bridge

Arney Run Park, 2340 Meister Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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Covered bridges, once a common sight around the countryside, have become rare but treasured relics of the past. Only about one in 10 have survived to the present day, with Mink Hollow Covered Bridge being one of the more picturesque structures. At a length of 54 feet, this charming "house bridge" boasts the longest official name of any bridge in the country: Mink Hollow over Arney Run in Oil Mill Hollow near the Borcher's Mill Covered Bridge. Dog-friendly Arney Run Park is also a great spot for hiking, photography, bird-watching, and picnicking. Park hours are dawn till dusk, 365 days a year. 

National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting

8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester, OH 45069

Before social media and television, news and entertainment were transmitted across radio waves. The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting highlights the development and impact of radio technology, both locally and globally. Cincinnati native Powel Crosley Jr., once dubbed "the Henry Ford of radio," was the driving force behind the Bethany Relay Station, which broadcasted from the building that now houses the museum. Other attractions include displays of early wireless transmitters and a fully-equipped ham station where you can observe the workings of shortwave radio. The museum is open weekends from 1 - 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for everyone aged 16 and older. 

The Mercantile Library

414 Walnut St. #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Established in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of only about two dozen membership libraries that still exist in the country. Spread across the 11th and 12th floors of the building, the library holds more than 80,000 volumes on subjects ranging from contemporary fiction and poetry to travel and history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Salman Rushdie, and Julia Child are just a few of the exciting guest lecturers who have appeared at the Mercantile. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.

Carillon Historical Park

1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409

Kitty Hawk may be the site of their first flights, but the dreams of the Wright Brothers first took hold in their hometown of Dayton. Carillon Historical Park shines a light on the Wright Brothers and other regional pioneers of transportation and industry. The 65-acre open-air museum includes displays such as the Wright Brothers National Museum, Great 1913 Flood Exhibit, and Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. Carillon Historical Park is open 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 3-17.

Yesterday Is History, Tomorrow Is a Mystery

What site in Ohio is associated with a significant memory from your own past?

Winter is a wonderful time for family fun around Ohio, with indoor and outdoor activities that offer something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying some skiing in Northeast Ohio, watching some pro sports with the family in Columbus, or doing some stargazing at a historic observatory in Cincinnati, there's something to look forward to in every corner of Ohio this winter. Our latest guide has all of the delightful details on nine great places for winter family fun around Ohio this year.

Northeast Ohio

Alpine Valley Resort

10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

Just west of Cleveland you'll find Alpine Valley Resort, the perfect place to enjoy some winter sports with the whole family. While it's not the largest ski resort, its smaller size makes it an ideal learning destination for any family members who are still learning how to ski or snowboard. The resort features seven trails from beginner to advanced, along with a terrain park. There's also a talented team of instructors ready to teach visitors of all ages the basics of skiing and snowboarding.

Akron's Lock 3

200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308

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The temperature may be dropping, but that only means that the fun is heating up in downtown Akron at Lock 3. This is where you'll find Akron's most popular outdoor ice skating rink, along with loads of other fun outdoor attractions. There's a nine-hole miniature golf course, rentable igloos where you can enjoy a meal in a unique setting, and fire pits where you can warm up. You'll also find a busy schedule of events during the holidays, like breakfast with Santa and dinner with the Grinch.

MAPS Air Museum

2260 International Pkwy., North Canton, OH 44720

For a great mix of education and family fun, try a visit to the fascinating MAPS Air Museum, which allows you to get hands-on with some of history's most impressive aircraft. You can actually sit in the cockpit of many historic aircraft, and see what it's like to be a pilot. There are also tons of interesting educational exhibits that trace aviation history from the early 1900s to the present day.

Columbus Area

Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065

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In most cities that are fortunate enough to have both an aquarium and zoo, you'd have to make two trips to enjoy both attractions. That's not the case at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, where you can enjoy it all in one fun-filled day. There are thousands of animals to see in countless habitats, and plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy along the way as you explore. You'll also find special experiences that allow you to feed the animals, see how the zoo works behind the scenes, and see fascinating shows like Dive into Adventure.

Columbus Blue Jackets Game at Nationwide Arena

200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH 43215

The Blue Jackets are Ohio's only NHL team, and they're located close to home in Columbus! A trip to Nationwide Arena to see a Blue Jackets game is a great way to enjoy a winter evening with the family, and see some of hockey's biggest stars up close. There are special family ticket packages available, which include tickets to the game, food, and drinks for one price. On some nights, those family ticket packages even include the opportunity to skate on the ice before the game with the Blue Jackets mascot or try your luck on the ice with some slap shots after the game.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

157 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219

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A massive indoor playground for both body and mind, LEGOLAND Discovery Center consistently ranks as one of the most popular attractions for families around Columbus. Kids will love building unique creations, racing LEGO cars, enjoying fun rides, and exploring a scaled replica of the city of Columbus made from more than 1.5 million LEGO blocks. Catch a popular LEGO movie at the 4D cinema, or take a behind-the-scenes factory tour to see how your favorite LEGO products are created.

Cincinnati Area

Cincinnati Observatory

3489 Observatory Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45208

Did you know that Cincinnati is home to one of the world's oldest public telescopes still in use today? The Cincinnati Observatory is the perfect place to plan a fun, educational family outing that will allow you to explore the stars. Visit at night to participate in the Astronomy Evenings program, which includes a guided tour and an opportunity to look at the stars through the observatory's telescopes. Or stop by during the day to see the facilities and take a historic walking tour of the lovely area around the observatory.

Bumper Cars on Ice at Fountain Square

520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Bumper cars on ice. If those four words won't get your kids excited this winter, what will? Every year, Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati is transformed into an icy playground, with bumper cars on ice and so much more. Buy a full pass to enjoy both bumper cars and ice skating, or simply choose one ticket for your favorite activity. The rink is open seven days a week and is also available for event rentals if you're planning an outing with a larger group. You can rent all of the equipment that you'll need at the rental stand, including dual-blade skates that make it easier for younger kids to learn the basics of ice skating.

Cincinnati Museum Center

1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203

Located in the beautifully restored Union Terminal, the Cincinnati Museum Center mixes education and entertainment in a way that few attractions can match. The Cincinnati Museum Center is home to the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Cincinnati Children's Museum, the Cincinnati History Library & Archives, and a state-of-the-art Omnimax Theater. The latest featured exhibit is The Science Behind Pixar, which provides a fascinating look at how some of the most popular movies in the world are made.

Your Own Winter Wonderland

How will you turn Ohio into your own winter wonderland this year?

Lazy rivers, coursing streams, meandering creeks – Ohio has a lot to offer when it comes to great paddling water. If you're in search of a place for your next kayak adventure in the Buckeye State, then you're in luck! These nine Ohio rivers flow through landscapes ranging from remote countryside to urban centers, but they all have one thing in common: they're great places to explore by kayak.

Little Miami River

320 Victor Stier Dr., Milford, OH 45150

One of Ohio's best paddling streams flows right through Cincinnati and its outlying suburbs. The Little Miami River is a picturesque, meandering stream that traverses an ever-changing landscape ranging from open countryside and secluded forests to small towns and urban communities. It also has some of the cleanest water in the state, and in 1973 was designated Ohio's first National Scenic River. There are dozens of great access points along the way, but the Little Miami River Access site in Milford, OH is a great place to start. Scenic River Canoe Excursions also offers guided trips in the area.

Cuyahoga River

300 Stow St., Kent, OH 44240

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The Cuyahoga River winds through the heart of Northeast Ohio. It begins as barely a trickle but grows steadily until it becomes a broad, mighty watercourse when it enters Lake Erie in Cleveland. One of the best places to explore the Cuyahoga by kayak is the Kent, OH area, where the river tumbles between rock walls and is shaded by a canopy of trees that hide it from the suburbs beyond. John Brown Tannery Park is a great launch site in Kent and also serves as a hub for Crooked River Adventures, which offers guided river trips. This section of the Cuyahoga River can be challenging during full spring flow, but by summer, the waters are typically slow and easily navigable.

Scioto River

5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123

The Scioto River is the longest river that lies entirely within the state of Ohio. It traverses 231 miles through the heart of the state, passing through Columbus on its way to meet the Ohio River at the state line. There are a lot of great kayaking opportunities along the Scioto's course. Paddlers in the Columbus area are fond of Scioto Grove Metro Park, a beautiful 620-acre urban oasis in the city that offers two launch sites – one at either end of the park – for easy put-in and take-out. The Scioto River is also known for great catfish and smallmouth bass fishing, so you might want to pack a rod and reel. 

Big Darby Creek

1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway, OH 43119

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The charming Big Darby Creek is like a magnet to canoe and kayak enthusiasts in the Columbus area. The creek flows 84 miles through Union and Madison Counties, eventually feeding the Scioto River. Along the way are numerous places to launch a kayak, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park being a local favorite. Darby Creek is surprisingly wild considering its proximity to the city. It's not uncommon to see beaver cuttings along the shoreline and turtles sunning themselves on rocks and trees near the bank. The park's official put-in site is just off Alkire Road, near the confluence of Big Darby Creek and Little Darby Creek.

Mohican River

3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842

The Mohican River flows through a landscape of secluded forests that looks as though it has been virtually unchanged since the first pioneers settled Ohio. Located about halfway between Columbus and Cleveland, Mohican State Park is a great place to explore the river. The park marks the spot where the Clear Fork Mohican River and the Black Fork Mohican River meet to form the river's main stem, and there are abundant kayaking opportunities in the area. It's a truly charming corner of the state. In addition to the state park, nearby Mohican Adventures Canoe Livery and River Zen Campground & Launch offer launch sites and camping.

Grand River

1122 Harpersfield Rd., Geneva, OH 44041

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The Grand River meanders through 102 miles of Northeast Ohio's Trumbull, Ashtabula, and Lake counties, passing through mostly picturesque rural communities on its way toward Lake Erie. It's a broad and tranquil river in summer and fall, perfect for paddling. Harpersfield Covered Bridge Metro Park is a popular place to put in, and launching here provides an opportunity to paddle under one of Ohio's oldest and longest covered bridges. From here, it's about 8 miles downriver to Hidden Valley Metro Park, and this section includes a scenic river gorge. Guided trips are available through Grand River Canoe Livery.

Mill Creek

316 W. North Bend Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45216

Offering a great stretch of urban paddling, Mill Creek flows through the heart of Cincinnati and is accessible at several spots along the way. It's a beautiful stream that offers a unique perspective of the city that few ever see. A local organization of paddling enthusiasts known as the Mill Creek Yacht Club helps maintain the stream and organizes group kayaking events. Put-in at the Playground at Caldwell Nature Center for a float trip through the city down to the next take-out at Millcreek Road, or continue down to Evans Recreation Area, the last stop before the Mill Creek Barrier Dam.

Mahoning River

75 N. Leavitt Rd. NW, Leavittsburg, OH 44430

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Drifting lazily through Northeast Ohio (and a bit of Western Pennsylvania), the Mahoning River snakes through tranquil forests, open farmland, quiet communities, and industrial landscapes alike. It's become an increasingly popular paddling stream in recent years, and the aptly named Canoe City Metro Park in Leavittsburg is an ideal place to get on the water. The park includes an easily accessible public launch and is a starting point for guided trips through Mahoning River Adventures. Wetlands along the river are popular for bird watching as well. 

Great Miami River

2000 US-40, Vandalia, OH 45377

Crisscrossing Southwestern Ohio for 160 miles before emptying into the Ohio River west of Cincinnati, the Great Miami River offers some of the best kayak water in the Cincy area. The river offers an established paddling route, known as the Great Miami River Water Trail, including numerous parks, access areas, and various put-ins and take-out spots along this beautiful, slow-rolling river. Taylorsville Metro Park and Island Metro Park – both in the Dayton area – offer excellent kayak launch sites that are part of the water trail, as well as riverside campsites that are open to paddlers.

Ride the River

Ohio has a lot of great paddling spots, including some we may have missed. Let us know your favorites in the comments section below!