Ohio is filled with stunning nature, and summer provides plenty of opportunities to experience it first-hand.
So put on your hiking boots, grab your binoculars, and explore Ohio in the following way.
Hunting
Ohio’s rich hunting heritage draws enthusiasts from far and wide. With an abundance of game species, including deer, turkey, and small game, the state provides ample opportunities for hunters to immerse themselves in the thrill of the chase.
The varied terrain, from dense forests to open fields, adds an extra layer of excitement to the hunting experience. As you navigate through Ohio’s carefully managed hunting grounds, you’ll not only hone your skills but also forge a connection with the natural world that is unparalleled. You can visit this website to check for more information.
Ohio’s commitment to responsible and sustainable hunting practices is evident in the careful management of its wildlife populations. The state’s game management programs ensure a healthy balance, providing both a challenging experience for hunters and maintaining the ecological equilibrium. Whether you’re an experienced hunter or a newcomer to the sport,
Ohio’s dedication to responsible hunting creates an environment where both the tradition and the natural beauty of the state are preserved for future generations.
Camping
Ohio offers plenty of outdoor camping experiences for people of all ages and tastes, from tenting to RVing – you will never be short of choices when it comes to campgrounds in this state! Spend your weekend reconnecting with nature. The state offers an abundance of camping opportunities ranging from rolling hills and mountain views, cascading waterfalls, fishing ponds, national and state parks with camping facilities, and more.
Kelly’s Island State Park stands out as an unusual campground because it sits on an island in Lake Erie. Offering both RV and tent sites with electrical hookups, this beautiful campground is an ideal place for those interested in discovering Lake Erie’s beaches, fishing, or boating opportunities.
Salt Fork State Park (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salt_Fork_State_Park) is a well-known camping location just southwest of Columbus that features an enormous lake. Here you’ll find hunting, fishing, swimming, boating, golfing, and hiking opportunities as well as naturalist programs offered in this state park.
Fishing
Fishing can be a fantastic way to enjoy time on the water, regardless of experience. Ohio offers plenty of lakes and rivers with opportunities for novice and veteran anglers alike to fish for bass, pike, or perch. Making sure that you have proper fishing rods, reels, nail clippers for cutting line, and needle-nose pliers to remove hooks is essential when fishing; additionally, be sure to bring sun safety gear such as wide-brim hats or sunglasses as sun safety is of utmost importance when fishing for bass or perch!
Ohio is home to more than 160 sport fish species and provides recreational anglers with many recreational fishing opportunities. New tools available to anglers assist them with using data to find the optimal place to cast their line; using the Where to Fish tool they can enter their zip code and type of target fish before selecting whether they prefer high abundance populations or trophy-sized populations.
Canoeing/Kayaking
Ohio’s scenic waterways provide kayakers with endless kayaking adventures, from serene paddles along Lake Erie to exploring Sheldon Marsh Nature Preserve wetlands. Whatever type of paddling adventure you seek out there are endless opportunities in Ohio!
For those seeking something a bit more adventurous can explore Big Darby Creek in Columbus – located just southwest of the city, this State and National Scenic Water Trail is perfect for beginners as well as families.
Ohio offers several great spots for paddling trips. One such river is the tranquil Walhonding River in Walhonding County – class I river provides an idyllic escape from city life while providing an enjoyable float through forested valleys. For longer paddling expeditions, Ashland County’s Mohican River (class I river), known as the “Camp and Canoe Capital of the World,” provides ample campsites and canoe liveries making this ideal location to experience nature firsthand.

Horseback Riding
Horseback riding provides an exciting way to explore Ohio’s natural landscapes and woods. Many trail riding stables such as Marmon Valley Farm in Zanesfield, which you can see here, Spotted Horse Ranch in Laurelville, and Uncle Buck’s Riding Stable in New Marshfield provide guided horseback rides through their parks or throughout the Hocking Hills region.
Biking trails provide another great way to experience Ohio’s rugged landscape. Ride either the multi-use paved Little Miami Scenic Trail that runs south from Cleveland through Cuyahoga National Park to Akron or take on more primitive rides such as Maple Bridle Trail near Holbrook Hollow.
Visit Dayton’s Wegerzyn Gardens for an exquisite outdoor experience, boasting ten formal gardens – including a Children’s Discovery Garden and Swamp Forest trail – as well as a 35-acre lake, athletic fields, and dog park facilities.
Ziplining
Zip line adventures provide an exhilarating outdoor adventure, providing an exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping outdoor experience like no other. Soar over wildlife on safari zip lines at The Wilds or see Southern Ohio trees from a whole new perspective in Hocking Hills; either way, there are numerous opportunities to fly high with fun.
The first step of ziplining is arriving at the course and getting equipped (source: https://www.quora.com/How-do-you-make-a-zip-line). Next step? A trip leader conducts “Ground School”, with safety lectures and demonstration of proper zipline technique demonstration. And that’s it – now let the fun begin!
Columbus’ Smale Riverfront Park provides an outdoor activity perfect for families. This picturesque greenspace features splash pads and playgrounds for kids as well as paved pathways ideal for biking, walking, and rollerblading – making this attraction one of Columbus’ must-see outdoor attractions! Whether you’re visiting for just the day or planning a romantic weekend getaway.
Ice cream and the outdoors go hand in hand; local shops in Butler County like The Cone and Flub’s offer delicious treats in Butler County the Cone or Flub’s have delicious varieties and toppings that will please even the pickiest palates. Or, for something truly spectacular in Butler County with a dash of history, you can check out Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve, featuring 500-million-year-old fossils, or climb Serpent Mound near Ohio Brush Creek.