Ohio is home to a vast state park system that offers its visitors a large variety of exciting activities. Outdoor enthusiasts, from adventure seekers to birdwatchers, can explore Ohio through its many trails, waterways, beaches and golf courses that are spread over this scenic Midwestern landscape.
Golfing
With its six golf courses, the Ohio State Park System offers golfers of all skill levels a chance to hit the links. According to "Golf Digest's" Places to Play, the park system's courses all rate as good or outstanding. Portsmouth's Shawnee State Park Golf Course, located along the Ohio River banks, is a walker-friendly course with several water hazards and plenty of sand. The Scottish links style course Maumee Bay State Park Golf Course in Oregon is nestled on the shores of Lake Erie. Several holes bring water into play and make even short shots challenging.
Riding
Equestrian enthusiasts can choose from more than 500 miles of horse trails within the park system in Ohio. A number of Ohio's state parks border on state forests that feature 200 more miles of bridle trails. Situated on the plains of Wolf Creek Valley, Sycamore State Park in Trotwood provides 15 miles of trail, and 59 miles of trail are available along the gently rolling hills of East Fork State Park in Clermont County. In all, 24 state parks in Ohio feature horse trails.
Hiking
Ohio hiking trails are ideal for beginner through advanced hikers. The state's many parks and diverse natural landscapes feature hiking trails that stretch across gently sloping hills, as well as steep inclines and rocky terrain. East Liverpool's Beaver Creek State Park offers a network of seven trails where routes range from less than a half a mile and up to 3 miles. The 8.5-mile trail at Strouds Run State Park by Athens is a popular birdwatching route. Shorter routes also are available.
Mountain Biking
Mountain bikers can kick up some dust on the more than 250 miles of trails in the state park system. For beginners, Hueston Woods State Park offers 12 miles of mostly gentle hills and straight pathways. Bike and equipment rental is available at the park. More advanced mountain bikers prefer the Dogwood and Vondergreen trails at Beaver Creek State Park, located in East Liverpool. The trails feature tough climbs and rocky terrain.
Swimming
Many of the lakes in Ohio within the park's system are open to swimmers. Alum Creek State Park in Delaware, Ohio, has a 3,000-foot beach that is the largest in the park's system. It has sand volleyball courts, a concession stand and shower facilities. The 900-foot beach at Strouds Run State Park east bank is open during summer months and features restrooms and changing facilities.
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