Posts with tag 'Family-Friendly Activities'
29
Love a Beach Vacation? Visit These 7 Places Around Northeast Ohio
Who needs an expensive trip to the East or West Coast for a beach vacation? Northeast Ohio is home to a number of scenic beaches that rival those in any other state. Thanks to their convenient location, you can even head out for a day-long getaway.
Get your summertime sand-and-water fix at these fun-filled beaches near Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and other Northeast Ohio cities.
Baylor Beach Park
8777 Manchester Ave. SW, Navarre, OH 44662
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Ohio's beautiful countryside is the setting for Baylor Beach Park, just 30 minutes from Akron and an hour's drive from Cleveland. Named after its founding family, Baylor Beach Park has been a popular Northeast Ohio getaway since 1955. The two-acre lake includes diving boards and water slides, while a nearby one-acre lake is available for paddleboats, aquabikes, and "funyaks." If you want to stay on dry land, enjoy a friendly game of miniature golf, volleyball, basketball, or cornhole. Admission is $8-$10 for guests aged 3 and up. Park hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Baylor Beach Park is maintaining social distancing rules by limiting daily guests, so arrive early.
Nelson Ledges Quarry Park
12001 Route 282, Garrettsville, OH 44231
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Have you ever marveled at pictures of daring swimmers leaping off a cliff into the water below? Indulge your adventurous spirit at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park. Grown-ups can get the thrill of jumping off centuries-old 50- to 60-foot cliffs, while kiddies splash around in their own shallow roped-off area in the clear, spring-fed water. With other activities such as scuba and snorkeling, fishing, and hiking, the whole family will find endless entertainment. Admission is $10-$12, with reduced rates for kids aged 4-14. Nelson Ledges is open daily, with day passes good until 8 p.m. Swimming is allowed 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. while lifeguards are on duty.
Lakeview Park
1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain, OH 44052
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Ironically, although Lorain is situated on Lake Erie, there was originally no lakefront recreation available to city residents. That changed in 1917 when city officials purchased 42 acres of land that later became Lakeview Park. The spacious beach provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Take a break for a stroll through the historic Rose Garden, shaped like a wheel with eight spokes to honor the local Rotary Club. Lunch is served with a lakeside view at the Sunset Café, which also offers a limited concession menu throughout the afternoon. Lakeview Park is open seven days a week from sunrise - 11 p.m., with lifeguards on duty between noon - 6 p.m.
Clay's Park Resort
13190 Patterson St. NW, North Lawrence, OH 44666
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2020 marks the 72nd year Clay's Park Resort has been serving as a favorite summer retreat in Northeast Ohio. Founder Otis Clay's descendants carry on his tradition at the 10-acre, sandy-bottom lake that features dueling water slides and zip lines along with a barrel roll, inflatables, and a kids' splash pad. Unlimited use of kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards is included with park admission. There's plenty of fun to be had on the ground with miniature golf, sand volleyball, basketball, and life-sized foosball. Admission fees are $20-$30 and $6 for kids ages 3-5. Park hours are noon - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Clay's Park is adhering to a specific number of guests daily, so follow their Facebook and Twitter pages for updates.
Edgewater Park Beach
6500 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway, Cleveland, OH 44102
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In 2013, Cleveland Metroparks assumed operational control of six lakefront parks formerly run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. A subsequent multi-million dollar upgrade included formation of Lakefront Reservation, an outdoor oasis in the heart of downtown Cleveland and site of Edgewater Park Beach. With 9,000 feet of shoreline, there's lots of room for swimming, sunbathing, and yes, surfing when the wind is right. Bring Fido along to play and swim in the roped-off, leash-free area at the western end of the beach. Landlubbers can hang out at the pier and fish or just take in the views. Adjacent Perkins Beach isn't open for swimming, but it's a great spot to look for beach glass, shells, or driftwood. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily, with lifeguards on duty from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Kelleys Island State Park Beach
920 Division St., Kelleys Island, OH 43438
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The short ferry ride to Kelleys Island State Park enhances the sense of "getting away from it all." Along the north side of the island, you'll find a pristine 100-foot beach with stunning views. Water depth changes gradually, so there's a generous shallow area for kids. If you'd rather be on water than in it, a public boat launch and kayak rentals are available. Explore the six miles of hiking trails that include scenic vistas and historic sites. Leashed dogs are welcome in specific beach areas, so bring the whole family along. Kelleys Island State Park is open 24/7.
East Harbor State Park Beach
1169 N. Buck Rd., Marblehead, OH 43440
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Situated on a peninsula that extends into Lake Erie, East Harbor State Park Beach is surrounded by wetlands that offer sightings of Ohio birds and wildlife. The two-mile lakefront stretch includes a 1,500-foot beach with plentiful shade trees. While pets are not allowed on the beach, leashed dogs are permitted in other areas of the park such as the picnic area, where you and Fido can enjoy views of the shoreline. East Harbor State Park is open around the clock, year-round.
Just Another Day at the Beach
Where would you like to spend your summer vacation in Ohio? Let us know in the comments below.
10
Northeast Ohio: How to Spend 24 Hours in Hartville
Hartville is a historic village that's home to approximately 3,000 people, and each year this charming spot draws upwards of two million visitors. Explore the delights Hartville has to offer with this look at how to spend a fun 24 hours in this popular community.
WHERE TO STAY
Quail's Covey Bed & Breakfast
3631 Swamp St. NE, Hartville, OH 44832
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Visit Quail's Covey Bed & Breakfast and you'll truly enjoy the comforts of home. The stunning Tudor-style house features a comfy great room and cozy sunroom where you can read, play games or simply relax. Stroll the peaceful grounds and view the gardens, waterfall, koi pond, and bass-filled lake with swans Gracie and George. Fall asleep to the sounds of waterfalls and wildlife, then wake to the scent of Charlotte's homemade apple dumplings. Call 330.312.0083 for reservations.
Comfort Suites Hartville-North Canton
953 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
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Visiting Hartville became even more convenient with the opening of Comfort Suites Hartville-North Canton, the first hotel of any kind in the area. Pet-friendly Comfort Suites is within walking distance of the famous Marketplace & Flea Market, hardware store, and other Hartville attractions. Hotel amenities include free WiFi and hot breakfast, flat-screen TVs, fitness center, heated pool, and hot tub. Call 330.587.4347 for reservations.
WHERE TO SHOP
Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market
1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
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Recognized as one of the top 20 flea markets in the United States, family-owned Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2019. The 12-acre grounds, largest in the country, accommodate 1,000 vendors displaying everything from antiques to collectibles to fresh produce. There's also a full calendar of events such as specialty markets, craft workshops, and movie nights. Weather isn't cooperating? No problem! Spend the day browsing the three-acre indoor marketplace, which includes dozens of vendors along with Sarah's Market Fresh Grill and The Coffee Mill. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
The Shops at Hartville Kitchen
1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
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From jewelry by Alex and Ani and Pandora, to bags from Vera Bradley and Brighton, The Shops at Hartville Kitchen have something for everyone. Shop for gifts or treat yourself to figurines by Swarovski, shoes by Crocs, or apparel from Life is Good. Don't forget to browse the Children's Shoppe for toys, clothing, and other essentials. The Shops at Hartville Kitchen is open 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday through Saturday.
Hartville Hardware & Lumber
1315 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH, 44632
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Hardware stores may not be on the must-see list in other cities, but Hartville Hardware & Lumber is on a level of its own. Founded in 1947 as a general farm store, Hartville Hardware has grown to become the largest independent hardware store in the country. With nearly seven acres under its roof, the store includes unique features such as Idea House, a complete 1,850-square-foot showcase home, and the Row House, a facade of various architectural styles. Check out the Farm and Pet area, which features a section of the original livestock auction barn from Hartville Hardware's humble beginnings. Hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday.
Best Bib and Tucker
127 Mill St. SE, Hartville, OH 44632
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Tired of looking at the same things in national clothing store chains? It's easy to put together a one-of-a-kind wardrobe at Best Bib and Tucker. Mother-and-daughter team Barb and Megan Wise's stylish boutique combines high-fashion consignment items with a carefully curated selection of jewelry, handbags, and accessories from their buying trips to Chicago. Sign up for the BBT newsletter and get birthday discounts, secret sales, and other perks. Hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
WHERE TO EAT
Peace, Love & Little Donuts
115 S. Prospect Ave., Hartville, OH 44632
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Peace, Love & Little Donuts is the result of a fortunate mistake made by founders Ron and Marci when their used fryer produced tennis ball-sized cakes. By the time the couple realized they had simply assembled the machine incorrectly, they had a hit on their hands. The range of creative flavors, including salted caramel macchiato, Fruity Pebbles, and Robert Brulee, is enough to make Homer Simpson's head spin. Phone ahead and your order will be ready for pickup when you arrive. Hours are 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday, and 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sunday.
Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery
1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
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Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery is part of the same family-owned group operating Hartville Hardware, Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market and Hartville Collectibles. After more than 50 years, Hartville Kitchen is still serving tasty homemade meals created from the recipes handed down by grandma Soloma Miller. The menu features comfort food classics such as hot roast beef sandwiches, chicken noodle soup, and breaded pork chops. Don't leave without pastries, pie, or breads from the onsite bakery. Plan a special night out at one of Hartville Kitchen's dinner shows featuring comedians, musical actsm and tribute bands. Hartville Kitchen is open 11 p.m. - 8 p.m. every day but Wednesday and Sunday.
Carlo's Trattoria
733 W. Maple St., Hartville, OH 44632
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Italian restaurants are appropriate for every occasion from a family dinner to a romantic date night for two. In fact, true love led to the opening of Carlo's Trattoria when the restaurant's namesake met his future wife on a cruise ship and followed her back to her hometown of Hartville. Carlo's signature dish is the plate-sized stromboli, a turnover-style sandwich loaded with cheese, sauce, and fillings. Other customer favorites include chicken Parmigiano and lasagna. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday.
WHERE TO ENJOY NATURE
Quail Hollow Park
13480 Congress Lake Ave. NE, Hartville, OH 44632
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When you want to spend some quiet time away from it all, you're just minutes from scenic Quail Hollow Park. Explore the 700 acres of meadows, marshes, and woods on foot, horseback, or mountain bike or try your luck fishing in Shady Lane Pond. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails. The nature center is open weekends for live animal exhibits and interactive educational programs. Cross-country skiing, skating, and sledding are available Saturdays and Sundays during winter for a minimal fee. Quail Hollow Park is open sunrise to sunset seven days a week.
The 'Hart' of Ohio
Which activities in Hartville will capture your fancy?
17
Pitch a Tent at These Northeast Ohio Campgrounds
There's no doubt that summer vacations will be different this year, but that doesn't mean you can't get out of the house and enjoy some family fun. If you're looking for the ultimate socially-distant vacation, camping is a great idea!
There are a ton of excellent campgrounds in Northeast Ohio, some of them with just as many amenities as a luxury resort. Take a look at a few of our favorite camping getaways.
Timber Ridge Campground
51900 Portman Road, Amherst, OH 44001
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If you're looking for a full-service campground with plenty to do, Timber Ridge is a great option. They have 30- and 50-amp RV hookups, and you can choose from either shaded and wide-open spaces.
The entertainment options at this campground are virtually endless, from game rooms and playgrounds to an indoor lap pool and a catch-and-release pond. Gather up the family to enjoy some time on the shuffleboard and basketball courts and don't forget to set aside some time for adult activities like cornhole, bingo, and musical entertainment.
Pier-Lon Campground
5960 Vandemark Road, Medina, OH 44256
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A campground known for its Christian Family Values, Pier-Lon is popular among both overnight and seasonal campers. One of the most popular attractions is the 5-acre lake where you can swim and enjoy catch-and-release fishing.
Other fun things to do here include paddleboard, hayrides, horseshoes, ladder golf, disc golf, baseball, and volleyball. There are also plenty of craft opportunities and planned activities. The campground offers full hookup sites, water/electric sites, and group camping areas.
The Lake
2678 S. Hametown Road, Norton, OH 44203
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A favorite among locals since 1955, The Lake is a fun, family-friendly campground where you'll find weekly social events, a gorgeous 6-acre swim lake, a goat petting zoo, batting cage, miniature golf, and an arcade. The campgrounds also offer basketball, tennis, disc golf, and GaGa ball.
There's no tent camping here, but if you have an RV, you'll enjoy the daily, monthly, or seasonal campsites with both water and electricity.
Wood's Tall Timber Resort
1921 Tall Timber Road NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663
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If you want to enjoy the great outdoors, you'll love the 157-acre Wood's Tail Timer Resort. A favorite among locals and visitors, this campground features a 7-acre lake and incredible amenities including miniature golf, ziplining, and a target range. You can also go fishing, boating, or hiking and the kids will love the playground and game room.
This resort offers a wide variety of camping experiences, including tent camping with no electricity and 30- and 50-amp electric RV hookups. If you're looking for a bit more luxury, you can also rent a house, cottage, mini-cabin, or a camper cottage.
Hickory Lakes Campground
23 Township Road 1300, West Salem, OH 44287
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For a fun and relaxing getaway with your family and friends, you can't go wrong with Hickory Lakes Campground. The grounds feature several private lakes where you can boat, fish, and swim. There's also a swimming pool and bike trails. You'll never have to worry about getting bored — there are plenty of fun planned activities that are guaranteed to keep everyone entertained.
This campground offers tent camping with water and electric, RV hookups, or cabin rentals. They also have a recreation barn that's perfect for larger activities.
Lake Wapusun Campground
10787 Molter Road, Shreve, OH 44676
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Located in Ohio's Amish Country, this huge campground is popular among both locals and visitors. They have 300 campsites, most of which are in wooded areas, 30-amp RV hookups, and A-frame and trailer rental cottages.
You'll love spending your time at the swimming beach, fishing in the five lakes (the largest is 23 acres), and enjoying live entertainment. There's also a game room, tennis and basketball courts, horseshoe pits, and rowboat and paddleboat rentals.
Atwood Lake Park
9500 Lakeview Road NE, Mineral City, OH 44656
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This campground offers both RV and tent camping, patio cabins, and vacation cabins. It's also known for its incredible amenities including a beach, fishing pier, playgrounds, activity center, basketball court, sand volleyball, shuffleboard, and even a dog park!
If you want to get out and enjoy the area, you can spend some time on the campground's hiking trails or climb up the observation tower to take in the incredible review.
American Wilderness Campground
17273 Avon Belden Road, Grafton, OH 44044
American Wilderness offers primitive camping, tent and RV camping with electric and water, and cabin rentals. The campsites are all quite large, giving you plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the peace and quiet.
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You'll never get bored here — there's a swimming lake with a sandy beach, an 11-acre stocked fishing lake, two playgrounds, and a huge game room. You can also try your hand at adventure gem mining, rent a boat, go hiking or biking, play basketball or volleyball, or spend some time at their adventure park! There are plenty of planned activities for campers and pets are also welcome.
Clay's Park Resort
13190 Patterson St. NW, North Lawrence, OH 44666
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This 500-acre facility gives visitors plenty of space to spread out. They offer cabin rentals, motorhome camping, "glamping" tents, travel trailer camping, and traditional tent camping. Best of all, when you rent a space, you'll also get access to the resort's 10-acre Adventure Water Park.
This resort also features an indoor heated pool, 18-hole miniature golf, and 20-acre fishing lake. You can also visit John O's Restaurant and Pub, visit the country store, rent a boat, and rent golf carts to get you from place to place. Looking to get active? Pick up a game of tennis, basketball, or volleyball, or head out to the trails to go hiking or biking.
Akron-Canton Jellystone Park™
12712 Hoover Ave. NW, Uniontown, OH 44685
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Located in Stark County, this campground offers visitors over 80 tent camping and RV sites and 8 luxury cabins. Once you're settled in, there's plenty to do, including an 18-hole miniature golf course, a giant activity barn, a gem mine, and even visits from Yogi Bear! They even have a shop where you can enjoy handmade ice cream and rootbeer.
If you have children, you'll definitely want to consider this exciting family-friendly adventure.
Summer Under the Stars
Are you ready for your next summer camping adventure?
12
Natural Wonders You Need to See Around Cincinnati
Powerful yet serene, waterfalls are the masterworks in Mother Nature's portfolio. Dramatic shots of waterfalls are often featured as highlights on travel and nature shows, giving them an exotic appeal. But you may be surprised to learn there are a number of breathtaking waterfalls on display within a two-hour drive from Cincinnati.
With summer on the way, it's the perfect time to plan some exciting day trips. Add these locations around Cincinnati to your list and prepare for some great waterfall viewing.
Sharon Woods
11450 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241
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The natural delights of Sharon Woods are so spectacular that you'll find it hard to believe you're only 20 minutes outside of Cincinnati. As the oldest of the Great Parks of Hamilton County, Sharon Woods features not one but three waterfalls, including Buckeye Falls and the Lower Falls. See all three along the Gorge trail, which is less than a mile long with low difficulty. Park admission is free, but there is a $3 parking fee for Hamilton County residents. Sharon Woods is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Ludlow Falls
110 Covington Ave., Ludlow Falls, OH 45339
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Many waterfalls are found in parks or nature reserves, but Ludlow Falls is part of a picturesque rural landscape in the small town with the same name. Just over an hour's drive from Cincinnati, the waterfall is under a bridge right by the post office, so it can go unnoticed by travelers. Follow the path from the nearby park for best access. With a 15-foot drop, Ludlow Falls is definitely a hidden gem in the area.
Hayden Falls
4326 Hayden Run Rd., Dublin, OH 43017
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Hayden Falls sits slightly north of Columbus, approximately two hours away from Cincinnati, and it's definitely worth a road trip. A boardwalk and overlook, with the backdrop of the 35-foot waterfall, allows for scenic photo opportunities. The gorge habitat, with its array of rare and endangered plants, completes the picture. Hayden Falls is open 24/7, with convenient onsite parking.
Indian Run Falls
700 Shawan Falls Dr., Dublin, OH 43017
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If you're heading out to Hayden Falls, double your fun with a stop-off at Indian Run Falls. Today the falls are mere minutes from downtown Dublin, but at one time the area was home to members of the Wyandot tribe, which is how the site got its name. Indian Run is actually two waterfalls, on the main and upper levels, which are traversed by a bridge. The City of Dublin has also added trails and observation decks to enhance visitors' experience. Hours are dawn to dusk, seven days a week.
Greenville Falls State Scenic River Area
9140 Covington-Gettysburg Rd., Covington, OH 45318
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Less than 90 minutes from Cincinnati, just past Dayton, you'll find the 92-acre Greenville Falls State Scenic Area. A network of trails leads visitors past historic features along the river, with interpretive signs explaining the significance of each one. The visual centerpiece is the 20-foot waterfall, where you may catch sight of wildlife populating the grounds. Water also left its mark forming a natural limestone arch along the river. Greenville Falls State Scenic River Area is open year-round from 8 a.m. - sunset.
Clifton Gorge Nature Preserve
2381 State Route 343, Yellow Springs, OH 45387
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Between Clifton Gorge Nature Preserve and adjacent John Bryan State Park, considered by many visitors to be the most beautiful state park in western Ohio, the village of Clifton is home to a number of natural delights. A series of waterfalls in the preserve, including Amphitheatre Falls, is formed by the Little Miami River passing through a 40-foot deep limestone gorge. After your visit, make a quick side trip to Clifton Mill, the largest of 47 remaining grist mills in the United States. A pair of man-made waterfalls tumble alongside the quaint building, presenting a charming picture of nostalgic Americana.
Fallsville Falls Wildlife Area
10211 Careytown Rd., New Vienna, OH 45159
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The alliterative and slightly redundant name of Fallsville Falls Wildlife Area is a throwback to a town from the past that no longer exists. Now this area, about an hour from Cincinnati, is known for the 15-foot waterfall that cascades stairstep-style in a small wooded gorge. As you enter the area via the gravel road leading from the parking lot, you'll hear the waterfall before you see it. Fallsville Falls is open 24//7 all year long.
Clifty Falls State Park
1501 Green Rd., Madison, IN 47250
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Head over to neighboring Indiana, roughly an hour and 20 minutes away, and take in the quartet of waterfalls at Clifty Falls State Park. Big Clifty, Little Clifty, Tunnel Falls, and Hoffman Falls fluctuate with the weather and seasons, presenting an ever-changing display inviting multiple visits. Pick up a map at the Nature Center and take pictures of seven waypoints to complete the Four Falls Challenge. Park entrance fee for out-of-state vehicles is $9. Summer hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.
Go With the Flow
Which waterfalls around Cincinnati will you be chasing this year?
5
Where to Cast a Line Around Northeast Ohio
There are few pastimes as simple, serene, and satisfying as fishing. Whether catching for sport or for feeding your friends and family, fishing is a fantastic outdoor activity that we can't get enough of. When we're looking to get in touch with nature, we grab our tackle boxes and head out to these great fishing holes around Northeast Ohio.
Headlands Beach State Park
9601 Headlands Rd., Mentor, OH 44060
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Why not spend the afternoon fishing on the beach? As the longest natural beach in the Buckeye State, Headlands Beach State Park is a wonderful place for shore fishing. Lake Erie is full of fun fish to angle for, including coho salmon, bluegill, rock bass, sucker, and bullhead. Pack a swimsuit in your tacklebox so you can swim and sunbathe after you've reeled in a few crappie and trout.
West Branch State Park
5570 Esworthy Rd., Ravenna, OH 44266
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Located in Portage County, West Branch State Park features a 2,300-acre lake for both on- and off-water fishing. Whether you love relaxing on the boat with a line in the water or wandering a bank to find hidden fishing holes, West Branch State Park offers enough variety that you'll never tire of. With fishing gear and supplies available at the West Branch Marina, you can bring a few first-time anglers out with you and show them the ropes.
Springfield Lake
2459 Canfield Rd., Akron, OH 44312
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A hidden gem right outside of Akron, Springfield Lake Park is a gorgeous, well-maintained park that offers an abundance of shoreline. A popular park for family gatherings, we love taking the kids out to Springfield Lake for a day of fun. While you catch channel catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass, your kids can enjoy playing on the jungle gym. Keep in mind that this park can get busy throughout the summer months, so be sure to come early if you want to find a peaceful, secluded spot to cast a line.
South Bass Island State Park
1523 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
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Who says you can't turn a fishing trip into a vacation? When we want to get away from it all (without going too far from home, that is) we stay-put in Put-in-Bay. This lovely village on South Bass Island in Lake Erie is an exceptional place to spend a long weekend for relaxation, recreation, and reeling in a few fish. Grab your rod and stroll down to South Bass Island State Park and do a little fishing in the lake. This portion of the lake has an abundance of fish species to hook, including steelhead trout, yellow perch, walleye, and smallmouth bass.
Pymatuning State Park
6100 Pymatuning Lake Rd., Andover, OH 44003
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All anglers know that you don't need to rush to natural waterways to find a good fishing hole. Pymatuning State Park features the manmade Pymatuning Reservoir that offers the same level of quality fishing you'd find in other lakes around Ohio. Split across the Pennsylvania state border, fishing either side of the Pymatuning Lake will allow you to reel in bluegill, largemouth bass, black crappie, and smallmouth bass.
Atwood Lake Park
9500 Lakeview Rd., Mineral City, OH 44656
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If you're looking for a cozy campsite for a weekend of fishing, Atwood Lake Park is calling your name. Grab the wife, the kids, and even the family dog so that you can all enjoy the many amenities of this family-friendly park, including the beach, basketball center, hiking trails, and volleyball court. For fishing, you can launch your boat from their courtesy dock or sit and fish off the pier.
Portage Lakes State Park
5031 Manchester Rd., Akron, OH 44319
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A boat and a fishing pole are all you need for unlimited angling in Portage Lakes State Park. With the freedom to explore eight spectacular lakes, Portage Lakes State Park offers limitless opportunities to fish without venturing too far from downtown Akron. While you can head to any lake and cast a line, we encourage all anglers to do a little research before venturing out. For instance, Turkeyfoot Lake is a great place to snag both largemouth bass and sunfish, and while neighboring West Reservoir is also great for largemouth bass, the crappie numbers are quite low. We suggest looking at stock levels of fish in all of the lakes and planning your trip according to which fish you'd like to reel in.
Highlandtown Wildlife Area
18416 Steubenville Pike, Salineville, OH 43945
Hunting and fishing go together like peanut butter and jelly, and there's no better place to do both than in the Highlandtown Wildlife Area. An expanse of 2,265-acres awaits outdoor enthusiasts who help keep the great outdoors thriving by assisting with population control. The Highlandtown Wildlife Area Pond is best to fish in the late afternoon either from the banks or on the water. The bass and crappie in the pond can get quite large but do remember that this is a popular hunting area for locals and visitors alike. For a quieter trip, make sure you try to avoid the crowds by going in the off-hours.
Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park
301 Huntington Beach Dr., Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
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The vast Lake Erie has too many great fishing spots to list, but we thought we'd leave you with just one more before you grab your reels and head out. Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park features the T-shaped Harbor View Boardwalk offering great views of Lake Erie and leads you to the lighthouse, which is where locals say the best fishing holes are located. Along with a fishing pier, there are also fishing charters available. If you've never fished but would love to give it a go, chartering your own private fishing boat for a few hours on Lake Erie will surely get you hooked!
Reel 'Em In
Where's your favorite fishing spot around Northeast Ohio? Drop us a line in the comments and tell us which fishing holes we should check out next!
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