Ohio is one of the most attractive states in the Midwest, with diverse and beautiful landscapes.
If you love spending time outside, you will fall in love with Ohio’s outdoors. There’s plenty to do and experience. You’ll find endless outdoor activities, from extensive state parks and mountain trails to historical sites and unique fairs.
Locals and visitors alike enjoy immersing themselves in the state’s magical outdoors. While prioritizing safety, we share some safe and fun outdoor activities in Ohio.
1. Hiking and Biking
Ohio has plenty of opportunities if you love the wilderness. The entire state is filled with state and national parks, state and national forests, and nature preserves.
You will get a better idea with this list of parks and wilderness areas.
The rugged hills and forests of the Allegheny Plateau and the Appalachian provide amazing opportunities for hikers and bikers looking to tackle exceptionally wild and scenic trails.
Some of the trails popular with bikers and hikers include both paved and wild trails like:
- The Kelleys Island State Parks and Preserves
- The Western Reserve Greenway
- The Great Miami River Trail
- The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail
- The Bike and Hike Trail
2. Boating and Kayaking
Ohio boasts many rivers, lakes, and reservoirs that have popularized water sports. Whether you like kayaking and canoeing or cruising powerboats, you will find various opportunities that appeal to your taste.
The state may not have sea access, but large water bodies like Lake Erie, Ohio River, and Grand Lake St. Mary’s are just as great for lovers of water activities.
Among the safest and most fun water activities in Buckeye State are canoeing and kayaking. With lakes, reservoirs, and a network of rivers and streams across the state, you have dozens of sites known for canoeing.
Many of the popular places offer guided tours designed for families, such as Burning River Adventures on the Cuyahoga River, Loveland Canoe on the Miami River, and Birch Bark Canoe Livery on Mad River.
3. Fairs and Festivals
The state that boasts both the Rock and Roll and the Rhythm and Blues Music halls of fame has a rich culture, which manifests throughout the year in fairs and festivals.
With hundreds of events occurring across the state year-round, you just have to mark your calendar to see what’s coming up near you.
Some of the best festivities to keep an eye on include the Ohio State Fair, Ohio River Paddlefest, Celina Lake Festival, All Ohio Balloon Festival, Ohio Renaissance Festival, and the Dublin Irish Festival.
For cannabis enthusiasts, the Ohio Marijuana Expo has become the biggest annual cannabis-related event.
While recreational marijuana remains illegal as of July 2023, attendees can still learn more about marijuana cards, patient benefits, and the workings of the industry.
4. Nature Walks and Camping
The high number of parks and reserves in Ohio offer excellent opportunities for nature lovers who want to experience scenic spots, observe wildlife, and camp.
If you’re into nature walks, you can take part in guided explorations of the state’s open preserves. There are plenty of these expeditions in the summer, and are generally family-friendly.
Alternatively, you could go camping in many of the campgrounds available year-long. These tend to offer different camping styles depending on your preference.
If you prefer setting up tents, primitive campgrounds are available, as well as RV sites and cabins with both electric and non-electric options.
5. Indoor Skydiving
Most people find skydiving fascinating. But even with modern advancements, the activity carries risks, many of which cannot be foreseen.
You’ve probably always wondered what it’s like to free-fall thousands of feet above ground. You can now experience something similar with indoor skydiving.
Plan a trip to iFLY Cincinnati indoor skydiving center, a facility designed to mimic skydiving but in a controlled environment.
The activity is safe and overseen by an instructor. You’ll be floating inside a large structure known as a wind tunnel. If you’re not up for real skydiving for safety reasons but would like to know what it feels like, try indoor skydiving.
Final Thoughts
The rich history, cultural diversity, and spectacular landscapes make outdoor activities in Ohio endless. You definitely have options for fun and safe pursuits regardless of what interests you.
