Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park: A Day of Family Fun In the Sun
One Stop Spot for Summer Adventures in Portsmouth, Ohio
Searching to find an outing in Southern Ohio that will entertain the entire family for the day. Look no further than the Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park. Grab your swim suits, bikes and a picnic lunch for a thrilling day of fun this summer that is inexpensive. Definitely add this park to your Ohio summer bucket list.
Park Entry Fee: None
Hours: Open Daily, 11-8pm
Doug Coleman Memorial Splash Pad
Pack in a day of family fun in Scioto County at the Doug Coleman Splashpad. Amongst squeals of laughter, you can find children having a blast as they cool off at the Doug Coleman Memorial Splashpad, located within the Earl Thomas Park. Kids will be delighted as they run through sprays of water and get soaked under the giant dumping bucket. Anticipation mounts as the towering red bucket slowly fills with water, once it gets filled to the brim it tips over spilling the gallons of water on the visitors below
At the low entry cost of $2.00 per person, this activity is one of the most budget-friendly places to add to your summer bucket list, especially for large families. Make sure to bring cash for entry. Vending machines are located at the splashpad, if you need a quick snack or refreshing drink. The splashpad is located within the Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park.
Hours: Open 11-7 daily, Tuesday- Saturday
Entry Fee: $2.00 fee per person for the splashpad (Cash Only)
Earl Thomas Riverside Pump Track
Try something new as you experience one of the most exhilarating family attractions in Scioto, Ohio. The Red Bull Pump Track, claims the title of the largest Pump Track in the entire state of Ohio!
If you’re unfamiliar with a pump park, it’s a course with a continuous loop of hills, raised banks, mounds and turns. Instead of peddling, riders use a pumping motion to maintain speed by utilizing their upper and lower body as they travel around the track and over obstacles. It’s fun for everyone and quite the workout! For your safety, don’t forget a helmet.
Playground
A set of swings and a large play area lie next to two shaded picnic table. A perfect combo for a blue skied day outside, especially when you pack a picnic lunch to enjoy. The play area consists of a large play structure with multiple slides, bridge, tire swing, and climbing obstacles.
While the toddler play area has a smaller slide, animal spring riders and a tunnel little ones can clamor through. Benches surround the fenced in playground so parents can sit and relax without worrying about little ones wandering off.
Other Amenities at the Park
Multiple large covered pavilions are ideal for large group gatherings. Additionally, this sprawling park contains paved walking trails, tennis courts basketball courts and wide open spaces for kicking a soccer ball or frisbee around making it an ideal spot to spend a day outside.
Nearby Activities & Restaurants
Looking for more summer activity ideas, here are 20 Family-friendly Outdoor Activities in Scioto County. Additionally, another spot to stop in is the Portsmouth Visitor Center, which has a wealth of helpful information about area events and activities.
Raven Rock State Nature Preserve
Get a widespread view of the area from atop of Raven Rock State Nature Preserve. Even though it’s adjacent to the park, this hike feels secluded and is the ideal way to escape into nature. Introduce your kids to the joys of hiking in this 2.5 mile hike. Before you go, check out this guide to hiking Raven Rock. Some pre-planning is needed before setting out on this hike because it requires a permit for entry secured 14 days in advance.
Shawnee State Park
Filled with numerous options for outdoor activities including: scenic trails, an archery range, mountain biking, plus gorgeous lakes ideal for kayaking and fishing. Easily extend your stay by booking a room or a rustic cabin at the Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center.
Buckeyes Dairy Bar
This summer treat yourself to an ice cream and a game of mini golf course.
Closing Thoughts
We guarantee your family will head home with sun-kissed noses and fun-filled memories during this budget-friendly family day trip in Ohio. Follow Discovering Anew for more Midwest Adventures. Follow Discovering Anew for more Midwest adventures, campground reviews, hikes, and outdoor family activity suggestions. Make sure to pin and save this post for later to help you decide on where your next adventure will be.
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