State parks are perfect for getting outdoors to do some serious leaf peeping and hiking as a chill fills the air and pumpkin spice is top of mind. Here are some top spots to visit and stretch your legs.
Great Council
The inaugural fall for Ohio’s newest state park in Xenia deserves a visit to the trails and a stop by the Little Miami River as its waters reflect fall’s colors.
John Bryan
John Bryan surrounds Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve where a deep cut in the Little Miami River offers spectacular views of dolomite and limestone gorges. Nearby Yellow Springs is a perfect fall small-town visit.
Hueston Woods
Just west of Cincinnati, Hueston Woods offers plenty of activities to supplement your peeping from golfing to camping, cabins, lodge rooms and a raptor rehabilitation center.
Paint Creek
Just outside Hillsboro sits Paint Creek. A kayak or boat trip offers stunning views of the park’s reservoir lake fringed with limestone outcrops. Nearby Highlands Nature Sanctuary offers added hiking opportunities.
Rock Fork
Located just a few miles apart, Rocky Fork and Paint Creek sit on the very edge of the Appalachian Plateau. The lake at Rocky Fork offers 31 miles of shoreline along with hiking and camping opportunities. While there, visit “Crabbie,” the world’s largest horseshoe crab at 7592 OH-124.
East Fork
On Cincinnati’s east side, East Fork is one of Ohio’s largest state parks and provides accessible leaf views from car or foot at the beach or dams.
