If you’re a nature-lover curious to explore great state parks, Columbus, Ohio, is an excellent place to start. As part of our ongoing list of things to do in Columbus, exploring state parks is a fan favorite. Central Ohio is home to some of the most beautiful state parks in the nation — these natural gems are a must-visit! Plan an excursion to enjoy our great state’s beautiful trails and magnificent wildlife.
Grab your hiking boots and explore seven state parks near Columbus with us. The best part? They are all free of charge!
Hayden Run Falls is the only Columbus, Ohio, state park located in the heart of the city. A wooden path leads visitors to an observation deck and a beautiful 30-foot waterfall. Hike up this easy trail and enjoy a picnic by the running water.
Address: 4326 Hayden Run Rd, Dublin, OH 43017
An ideal vacation destination, Deer Creek State Park offers a variety of family-friendly recreation opportunities. Stay at the resort and enjoy the campground, golf course, and lake activities like boating and fishing. Unwind in the woodland and meadow environments, and appreciate nature at its finest.
Address: 20635 State Park Road 20, Mt Sterling, OH 43143
Hocking Hills State Park is among the highest-rated and most breathtaking state parks near Columbus, Ohio. Forbes voted it a top place to travel in 2023. Hocking Hills boasts waterfalls, cliffs, and gorges, where visitors can enjoy magnificent views. With over 25 miles of hiking trails, this state park has so much to see. The park is open year-round, so visit each season for perennial beauty.
Address: 19852 State Route 664, Logan, OH 43138
Located 45 minutes outside Columbus, Delaware State Park is ideal for lake lovers. With a marina, boat ramp, and seasonal docks, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy a perfect day in the sun. Delaware State Park is also known to have some of the best camping grounds, with easily accessible parking and electric hooks.
Address: 5202 US Highway 23 N, Delaware, OH 43015-9714
Buck Creek State Park is the perfect place for glamping. Featuring cabins with lake views, screened porches, TVs, grills, and air conditioning, you get the best of both worlds. Campers can wake up and enjoy lake swimming, hunting, boating, and hiking waiting for them outside their cabin, camper, or tent.
Address: 1976 Buck Creek Ln, Springfield, OH 45502
Note: Cabin reservations must be made at least a year in advance.
A.W. Marion is another of the most beautiful state parks near Columbus, Ohio. Located in the rural woodlands next to the calm waters of Hargus Lake, this park is perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway. It offers trails, boating activities, fishing, and even a designated dog swimming area!
Address: 7317 Warner-Huffer Rd, Circleville, OH 43113
Mohican-Memorial State Park, about 1.5 hours away from Columbus, is one of the highest-rated parks in Ohio. It has an abundance of hiking, bridle, snowmobile, and mountain biking trails across 4,541 acres. This forest is often used for research and is consistently cleaned, monitored, and protected. The views are amazing here, so don’t forget to bring your camera for lasting memories.
The state parks near Columbus, Ohio, are waiting to be discovered. For more travel ideas and things to do in Greater Columbus, check out our blog for recreation guides.
Ohio’s state parks offer free entrance without general admission, parking, or park usage fees. It is one of the few states that does not charge for state parks.
Ohio is known for its many beautiful state parks, but Hocking Hills State Park is often considered the most beautiful. This internationally acclaimed park is a must-visit, featuring stunning waterfalls, cliffs, and scenery.
Hayden Run Falls Park is one of the few parks located in Columbus. Just outside of Columbus, Ohio, is Alum Creek State Park, a popular spot for Columbus locals.
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