Craving a family vacation filled with outdoor adventures? Well, you’ve found it! Shawnee State Park is a forested area in Ohio which is stunningly beautiful and makes a perfect family getaway full of adventures in the Midwest.

Located in southern Ohio, it’s a hidden gem which offers visitors a host of outdoor activities including: horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, fishing and mountain biking. It truly is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream vacation. The Shawnee State Forest, dubbed the “Little Smokies of Ohio”, is known for its wide spreading forested hills adorned with a hazy blue color drifting from the ridges.

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Who knew this area would be one of the most secluded and scenic hiking spots in the Midwest. Rich with history, the Ohio River region was once the hunting grounds for the Shawnee Indians and now contains the Shawnee State Park. This Ohio State Park area is a prime place to visit during the summer due to the numerous lakes and waterways, including the Scioto River and Ohio River.

The Shawnee State Park is home to a modern wooded campground, as well as the impressive Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center, which makes it easy to create memories and savor time together as a family around a crackling fire.

WHAT TO EXPECT

During our brief stay, we noticed that this beautiful area and trail system were mostly unused, which means we reaped the benefits of secluded trails all to ourself.

Relatively 2 hours from the major cities of Dayton, Columbus and Cincinnati makes this location an easy day trip or quick overnight getaway. Plus, it’s less than a 5 hour drive from the border of Michigan, so we knew we needed to visit. Now that it’s on your radar, here is a thorough guide to help you start planning a trip to Shawnee State Forest in Ohio.

* In collaboration with Shrpa and the Portsmouth Scioto County Visitors Bureau, part of our stay was covered. All opinions and reviews expressed are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through any links in this post, I receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

For reference our family of six visited Memorial weekend for 3 days. We stayed over night in a cabin at the Shawnee Lodge and hiked with our four children, ages 5, 7, 9, 11. We appreciated that it was a kid-friendly area and there were ample things to do for families.

We’ve created a guide to the best things to do at Shawnee State Park in Ohio to help you plan your vacation. There is a plethora of tips, information and pictures of our adventures to share, so let’s get started.

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Video of outdoor activities at Shawnee State Park in Ohio

Cost All Ohio State Parks are free to visit, so this can be an inexpensive trip packed with tons of outdoor adventures.

Length of Stay I’d recommend at least 3-5 days so you can relax, while taking your time exploring the area. We stayed 3 days and could have easily stayed longer.

WHAT TO BRING

Layers for hiking
Hiking footwear (we especially preferred to have sturdy hiking sandals like Keens, Chacos, and Tevas in the summer for creek crossings)
A quality Hiking Backpack, plus water and snacks! Check out our essential list of items we keep in our hiking backpack.
Bikes & helmets (There are multiple options for biking from mountain biking to a pump track)
Swim suits, beach towels and sand toys
Kayaks/ Paddleboards
Bow and arrows for archery range

WHEN TO VISIT

Spring Hikes containing water features will be at their peak time in spring, particularly during the rainy months of April and May.

Summer The warmer months is the busiest season to visit the state park. Summer is prime time for water sports. Most trails are shaded so it’s quite enjoyable for hiking. On hot days take a dip in Turkey Creek Lake or Roosevelt Lake. If you stay at the Lodge, you can advantage of the spacious outdoor pool.

Fall A visit in Autumn can be lovely with the jewel- toned shades of fall leaves and the weather is cool and comfortable.

Winter The Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center are open year round, so in winter snow covered trails create a unique experience with stunning landscapes and solitude on the trails. Use yaktraks on your boots to help with traction on trails. Plus, the lodge has an indoor pool and hot tub to utilize.

TIPS & FAQ’s WHEN VISITING SHAWNEE STATE PARK

Verizon and AT& T have good cell reception and coverage throughout the park.
Visiting the Nature Center is a great spot to head when you first arrive to grab maps and gain helpful information about monthly programs. It is open Memorial Weekend- Labor Day.
Dogs are allowed at Shawnee State Park. However, dogs must be leashed or restrained in recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas and on designated trails. The Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center even have designated pet friendly cabins. In addition, Ohio River Campground has two dog parks that your furry friends will love. Whenever we camp with our dog, we appreciate having a vest harness with handle while hiking.
Where Does the Smokey Blue Hue Come From? The unique hue is created from the moisture in the air from miles and miles of forested land.

HISTORY OF SHAWNEE STATE PARK

Shawnee State Park began in 1922 and with the efforts of the CCC in the 1930’s most of the lakes, roads and trails were formed and built in the 1930’s. During your visit, you can learn more history about the development of the park at the nature center. A historic cabin built by the CCC is located next to the nature center and you can go inside to tour it during operating hours.

WILDLIFE & FLORA

Sprawling in all directions, a trip into the Shawnee State Forest is a chance to get away and recharge amongst the woodland beauty. Covering 63,747 acres of land, it has been aptly nicknamed "The Little Smokies of Ohio". Keep your eyes open during your visit for wildlife. During our hikes, we spotted white tailed deer, squirrels, lizards, and even a bald eagle soaring above the treetops. While hiking at Raven Rock my children even discovered a lizard sunning itself on the sandstone cliff.

From intricate details and colors of mushrooms to vast towering trees, both were a welcome sight along the trails. Distinct spotted sycamore trees and sugar maples were easy to spot along the trails, as well as, tulip popular and American beech. From leafy emerald ferns and rich lime mosses cover the sandstone cliffs and alongside the trails.

WHERE TO STAY IN OR NEAR SHAWNEE STATE PARK

Portsmouth, Ohio has available lodgings nearby from campgrounds, cabins and hotels. Whether you prefer a rental property through VRBO or a hotel, you’ll find the best deals on what’s available through bookings.com.

If you’re looking for a place to stay to surround yourself in the natural beauty of the area, look no further than Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center or the State Park Campgrounds.

Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center

Staying two nights in the rustic cabins was the perfect way for our family to be in the center of all the outdoor activities that the Shawnee State Park and Forest provide, plus still have access to amenities like an indoor and outdoor pool and dining restaurants. Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center is open year round offering both guests rooms and cabins. Stunning views, friendly service, and a variety of accommodations can appeal to everyone including; Internet, air conditioning, tv, a game room and pools. With a gorgeous view, the large outdoor pool is quite the draw with chaise lounge chairs for relaxing. In the evenings, the lounge is inviting with oversized leather chairs and large fireplaces that create a relaxing ambiance.

Our family stayed in a rustic family cabin. We appreciated that we still had full access to all the amenities at the Lodge and it was only a short bike ride to the lodge. The fully furnished cabins included two bedrooms, a bathroom and shower, living room with TV, and a kitchen with cooking supplies, so it was great for our large family of six.

STATE PARK CAMPGROUNDS

Campsite options include both electric and full-service hookups depending on the campground you select. Desiring to camp overnight, Shawnee State Park provides two different options: Turkey Creek Campgrounds and Ohio River Campground.

Turkey Creek Lake Campground

Across from Turkey Creek Lake is the first campground. For those wanting to be surrounded by nature, Turkey Creek State Park is an ideal choice for families.

Both tents and trailers can camp at the heavily wooded sites, options of both electric and non-electric. Amenities include: camp store, hiking trails, a playground, putt-putt golf, and a sand volleyball court. Dogs are allowed in the campground and beach area leashed.

Ohio River Campground

Recently built on the land that was the golf course, Ohio River Campground, is a full hookup campground by the Ohio River. With 80 sites to choose from, this modern campground is great for families with kids or pet owners. Within the campground is a splash pad, pump track and playground to keep kids entertained, plus two dog parks for your pups. Reservations for camping can be made 6 months in advance for Ohio state parks. Reservations for day-use facilities, cabins and lodge rooms can be made up to one year in advance. Daytime visitors are also able to use the splashpad, dog park and playground. With free entry to Ohio state parks this is a budget-friendly destination for families.

TIPS WHILE CAMPING AT SHAWNEE STATE PARK

Bring bikes (and helmets) for the campground to make it to easy to get to the bathrooms, playground or nearby Turkey Creek Lake
Check In/ Out 2 pm

SAMPLE 5 DAY ITINERARY

Day 1 Arrive/ Hike Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve/ Swim at Lodge/ Pizza & Billiards at Tecumseh Lounge

Day 2 Visit Nature Center/ Kayak & Swim at Turkey Creek Lake/ Bonfire

Day 3 Explore nearby town of Portsmouth/ Visitor Center/ Portsmouth Flood wall/ Market Street Cafe/ Hike Raven Rock

Splash Pad/ Earl Thomas Riverside Park and Pump Track

Day 4 Hike Trails at State Park/ Swim at Olympic Size Pool/ archery range/ Oddfellows for dinner

Day 5 Mountain Bike/ Playground/ Ice cream at Buckeyes & play putt putt golf / Head Home

For additional trip ideas check out SHRPA for complete adventure ideas.

TOP THINGS TO DO AT SHAWNEE STATE PARK

Shawnee is best known for its amazing hikes and scenery, but there is a plethora of ways to explore the area. There is truly something for the whole family. Adults and kids alike will love these outdoor activities.

Learn at the Shawnee State Park Nature Center

When visiting Shawnee State Park, make a stop by the Nature Center. The cute A-framed building is located by the dam and near the trailheads. Kids will enjoy the natural playground, mud kitchen, tunnel, live animals and touring the historical cabin.

Get your chance to hold local wildlife like snakes, amphibians and reptiles. The state naturalists provide helpful information and unique experiences. Grab maps and check out the weekly scheduled programs offered. Find out more information here, about our recent visit and what to expect.

Relax at the Lake

With an abundance of lakes and waterways, Shawnee State Park has several options for sandy public beach access for swimming, fishing, kayaking or canoeing.

Soak up sun by heading to Turkey Creek Lake, the larger lake located within the state park. Cross over to the beach via the bridge, which leads to the sandy swim area. Enjoy countless hours swimming and playing. Adjacent to the campground, walk over to the camp store for mini golf, kayak rentals, or grab some munchies from the camp store. Other noted features are restrooms as well as disc golf. If you want to hike, scenic hiking trails circle the lake and providing beautiful views..

Roosevelt Lake, the smaller sized lake, is still a great choice, especially for groups of people. It contains a large beach area for day use, grills, and a nice modern waterfront playground. Additionally, Roosevelt features a volleyball net for those who want to be active, as well as pavilions to rent, onsite restrooms, disc golf, and a large parking lot.

Hike the Trails at Shawnee

There are miles of trails interconnecting throughout the park and Shawnee State Forest, as well as may preserves nearby. The trails are well marked with signs, but we still found it helpful to have a map on hand for reference. Wide variety of trails rated from easy to rugged, you will encounter trails with rocky terrain, stair climbs, boulders, and cliffs. We felt safe hiking with our four children, ages 5-11, who are well versed in following safe hiking practices and rules while exploring much of the area. We quickly learned that each hike had unique features from large boulders, creek crossings, and lake views.

Ohio Hanging Rock.

This gem of a hike is 4.4-mile loop trail and is ideal for those desiring some solitude. Ohio Hanging Rock Trail features ravines, a small waterfall and massive moss-covered outcroppings. Surprisingly, we had the trail to ourselves to explore, for the 3 hours our family hiked.

Raven Rock State Nature Preserve

Experience a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail in Portsmouth, Ohio. This rewarding hike is the perfect length for families to enjoy. It took us about 1.5 hours to complete with plenty of shade as we traversed through numerous switchbacks, inclines, and around rocky boulders, all of which made for an interesting and scenic trail.

Rated moderate, this trail rewards visitors with a birds eye panoramic view of the of the Ohio River Valley, foothills and the local school, which are quite lovely to behold. Here’s what you can expect when hiking Raven Rock.

View of the Ohio River Valley from Raven Rock

Copperhead Lookout Tower

One of the most noteworthy structures in the Shawnee State Forest is the Copperhead Fire Tower. Although The fire tower still stans as a monument, even though it is no longer in service. It has been replaced by aircraft surveillance. Hike out to view this monument that symbolizes the efforts of the forest rangers of long ago.

Kayak at Turkey Creek Lake or Roosevelt Lake

Boating rentals are available offering canoe and kayak options for families wanting to enjoy the lakes. Desiring a longer trip, there are guided kayak trips that will take you down the Scioto River.

Play on the Playgrounds

Kids will get there fill of play since there are multiple playgrounds situated throughout the state park. On the top of the hill by the lodge is a modern play structure for the cabins and lodge guests. Whereas visitors for the day can appreciate the play areas by Roosevelt Lake and campers can utilize the playgrounds by Turkey Creek Lake Campground.

Explore on Horse Back

One of the best ways to explore the area is by horseback. If hiking isn’t your thing, let the horses do the work as you experience the beauty of Shawnee State Forest from atop a reliable horse. . Choose from varying length trips from 1 hour to 2 hours at this family-owned and operated stable. Children as young as 3 years of age can ride, by doubling up with their parents. Expect to see wildlife on the paths including white tailed deer, scampering squirrels and birds. If you're an animal lover like my children, make sure to venture around the stables to view peacocks, chickens, turkeys and, of course, pet the horses. *During our visit, the property and trails were undergoing some changes. Bring either cash or check for payment. Call ahead for reservations

Cost $35 per rider

Cool Off in the Swimming Pool at the Shawnee Lodge

Take a dip in the enormous outdoor pool to cool off during your stay. Chaise lounge chairs make it easy for parents to relax poolside with a stunning view overlooking the foothills. There is also a kiddie pool which is great for toddlers and babies to splish and splash. The outdoor pool is open Memorial Day- Labor Day.

If the weather isn’t ideal, the spacious indoor pool is open for guests of the lodge or cabins to enjoy. Kids can jump and play in the refreshing water, while parents take a break in the hot tub. Pool towels are a nice feature of the lodge.

Pack a Picnic

There are picnic tables scattered throughout the park. I highly recommend packing a picnic lunch. Some ideal spots are located by the lakes, with grills and a playground to utilize.

Disc Golf

Black Bear Disc Golf is situated in the Shawnee State Park. The course is hilly and wooded, with a couple of open holes. Most of the course is hilly and in the midst of wooded lanes. Traversing over 2.8 miles of differing terrains it is considered and advance course. Just wanted to try it out, stop in by the lodge near the playground and you’ll find baskets. Use the restroom and then enjoy food and drinks by the 12 & 13 hole near the Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center. Dogs are welcome on the course.

Mountain Bike

Recently completed, a diverse mountain biking trail system is an added feature of the park. The trails are all single tracks and include various obstacles, switchbacks, berms, inclines, jumps and bridges. The trails include options from easy to intermediate and are quite the workout. Many can be combined to add additional mileage.

Park at the lodge and find the trail head up the hill, past the playground on the left, over a small wooden bridge and you’ll spot a wooden swing near the top of the hill. Check out www.trailfork.com, for details about the current trail conditions, best course direction, and in-depth information like difficulty levels.

Archery Range

Take aim and let it fly at the Shawnee State Archery Range. This spacious area contains over 8 targets spread out over varying distances. The targets are all static. No broadhead arrows allowed. There are also picnic tables set up along the road to watch one another shoot.

Even if don’t own a bow, the Nature Center holds special days where they bring bow and arrows and instruct visitors on the basics.

Fishing

Fishing is allowed in the Shawnee State Park. Bass, bluegill, trout and catfish, are all found in the lake waters. An Ohio state fishing license is required for those 16 years an older. Additionally in the spring a huge trout tournament is held and they stock the lake with trout for the Shawnee State Park Trout Derby.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Doug Coleman Memorial Splashpad & Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park

As the summer heats up, children can cool off at the Doug Coleman Memorial Splashpad while getting sprayed and soaked under the giant dumping bucket. For only $2.00 per person, this activity is one of the most budget-friendly places to add to your summer bucket list.

Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park & Red Bull Pump Track

Try something different by experiencing one of the newest attractions in Scioto, Ohio, the Red Bull Pump Track. This track holds the title of the largest Pump Track in the entire state of Ohio! Besides the pump track, the park has scenic trails picnic tables, basketball courts, playground, swings and a splash park making it an fun location for families.

Portsmouth Floodwall Murals

Spend a couple hours in Portsmouth learning about the history of the area in a unique way. The artistic murals decorating the walls and buildings tell a tale of the Shawnee tribe, industrial era, and influential people and business in the Scioto area.

RESTAURANTS

Buckeyes Dairy Bar

Personally, summertime doesn’t feel complete without a tasty treat of ice cream! Stop in at Buckeye Dairy Bar for lunch with your favorite ice cream, shake or banana split.

Relax under the shady oak trees at picnic tables while you recharge with a classic American menu of Buckeye burgers, fries, or a pizza. After a leisurely meal outside, the family can test their skills on a charming miniature golf course. Play through water obstacles and over bridges that are surrounded by flowering shrubs, ornamental grass, blue spruce and Japanese maples

With affordable prices, friendly customer service and a picturesque landscape, you’re guaranteed to have an enjoyable time. The 18 hole putt-putt golf course is open seasonal from April - October. Prices are $6.00 for 18 holes. On Mondays, 1 child plays for free with a paying adult.

OddFellows

Indoor Pool and Hot Tub at Shawnee Lodge

Looking to change up the same boring food, then head over to Oddfellows to satisfy your appetite. Combined with a family-friendly atmosphere, delicious & unique food, plus entertainment, you can’t go wrong.

Market Street Cafe

During our stay, we wanted to pack a quick picnic lunch so we stopped in the town of Portsmouth and grabbed some delcious food at Market Street Cafe. The yellow canopy and bike welcomes visitors in. Don’t skip ordering a sugar cookie, to satisfy your sweet tooth. We loved the unique and fresh flavors flavors in the Turkey Crunch Wrap, Chicken Mushroom Melt and the Boneyfiddle Club Melt.

Tecumseh Lounge or Smokehouse Restaurant inside the Lodge

After an active day of exploring, stop in at the Shawnee Lodge and satisfy your appetite with some food at the Smokehouse Restaurant or Tecumseh Lounge for drinks, filling pizza or build your own burgers.

As a family with young children, we opted for the Tecumseh Lounge. While waiting for our food, the adults were happy to grab a drink, while our kids were entertained. We could play a game of billiards, get up and dance to the jukebox and watch a sports game on the large screen tv in comfy oversized leather chairs.

Known for their specialty pizzas, try a new blend of flavors like their Reuben or Pickle pizza. Our favorite was definitely the Pickle Pizza. After a long day it was the perfect spot to relax as a family.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

It was a much needed escape into nature for our family, especially because of the wide variety of outdoor adventures to enjoy. I’m sure that you’ll leave relaxed and with a stock pile of memorable moments with your family spending time surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.

Hopefully this has inspired you visit Shawnee State Park and experience the beauty of Southern Ohio this year. Don’t forget to Pin and Save this post and follow Discovering Anew on Facebook for more family travel, Midwest vacation guides, and camping recommendations. If you found this content helpful, share it with a friend. Happy Trails!