Shawnee State Park is one of Scioto County's hidden gems. With plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities and plenty of natural beauty, the park is a special place for both Scioto County residents and Southern Ohio visitors. Check out this video, produced by The Ohio Channel as they interview one of Shawnee State Park's naturalists, Jenny Richards.
The Seasons of Shawnee State Park
Visiting Shawnee State Park is beautiful anytime of the year! While winter months can seem dull, the park is anything but dull as snow falls and blankets the trees and meadows. Break out your snowshoes and enjoy a winter hike that can truly elevate you to new heights and really get your blood flowing. As spring approaches, take note of the budding wildflowers that begin to bloom throughout the park. Enjoy some excellent bird watching--from Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles taking flight near the Ohio River to the small songbirds like the Eastern Phoebe and Cerulean Warbler singing their songs throughout the forest. Of course, the summer is where the idea of adventure truly shines! Kayak out on the lakes, rivers, and creeks and soak up the summer sun. Bring your archery gear and try out the archery range at the Ohio River Campground. As the temperatures begin to shift from warm to cool, the forest comes alive with splashes of fall color! Take a hike or drive through the park and forest to view the radiant colors of the leaves with a mixture of hues of reds, yellows, greens, and oranges.
No matter the time of year, Shawnee State Park promises to be full of adventure that the whole family can enjoy!
Recreational Opportunities at Shawnee State Park
Being that Shawnee State Park sits at the foothills of the Appalachians, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy!
Kayaking at Roosevelt Lake, Turkey Creek Lake, the Paddling Loop at the Ohio River Campground, and on the Ohio River.
Motorized boating: Hand-powered and electric-only motorized boats are allowed on Roosevelt Lake while Turkey Creek Lake allows gas motors at idle speed. Unlimited horsepower boats can access the Ohio River from a marina.
Play a round of disc golf at the Black Bear Disc Golf Course, located near Turkey Lake and the Shawnee Park Lodge.
Hike over 65 miles of trails throughout the State Park and Forest.
Break out the fishing poles and try your luck fishing at Roosevelt and Turkey Creek Lakes.
Ride along over 70 miles of bridle trails through the winding forests and hills of the 'Little Smokies'.
Test your mountain biking skills with over 3 miles of mountain biking trails.
Read a fun, cute story along the Shawnee State Park's Storybook Trail at the Ohio River Campground.
and more!
Check out the Shawnee State Park website for all available recreational activities!
Staying at Shawnee State Park
Now that you are hooked by the plethora of activities to enjoy, the question becomes where can I stay? Shawnee State Park has two campgrounds available: The Ohio River Campground on U.S. Route 52 and Turkey Creek Campground near Roosevelt Lake on Ohio Route 125. Campground amenities vary based on location. Check the park website for more information on the amenities offered for both campground to help decide which best suits your needs.
If you are looking for a more comfortable stay where nature and luxury meet, check out the Shawnee State Park Lodge and Conference Center. The park lodge boasts a variety of amenities that will make your stay even more enjoyable! From an indoor and outdoor pool, to arcade games and nature programs for the kids, and delicious dining options for all to stay fueled up for your daily adventures--the lodge is a perfect place to begin and end your day. Want to make the experience more exciting? Check out the variety of special events the lodge puts on throughout the year!
No matter what brings you to Shawnee State Park, we hope that we have left you inspired you to come out and enjoy the beauty of Shawnee State Park and the surrounding Shawnee State Forest!