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Community Partners Ohio River Way Mission: T o help people find adventure, inspire care for the land and water, and boost the economies of vibrant Ohio River communities by building partnerships that promote safe, healthy outdoor recreation; education; & tourism. WEBSITE Portsmouth Connex Mission: To inspire activities of play, exercise, and social connections to promote health and wellness. WEBSITE Main Street Portsmouth in Bloom Mission: Main Street Portsmouth in Bloom works to provide services, incentives, and collaborative opportunities to promote a healthy economic downtown while preserving our historic integrity. WEBSITE Friends of Portsmouth Mission: To catalyze and organize progress and change in our community. WEBSITE Arc of Appalachia Mission: Our task is straightforward – to preserve the most intact wildlands remaining in Appalachian Ohio, and protect native communities that were millions of years in the making. Photo credit: Tremper Mound taken by Brian Prose WEBSITE Portsmouth Area Chamber of Commerce Mission: The Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer, non-profit organization that unites the efforts of business and professional individuals in an effort to foster a healthy economy to benefit the entire community. WEBSITE Shawnee State University Mission: We prepare today’s students to succeed in tomorrow’s world. Photo credit: Shawnee State University WEBSITE City of Portsmouth Where Southern Hospitality Begins WEBSITE Scioto County Commissioners Once a thriving river port and steel town, Portsmouth, the county seat, is revitalizing its economy through technological advances, improved educational opportunities and tourism. WEBSITE Scenic Scioto Heritage Trail The Scenic Scioto Heritage Trail offers those who travel its over 84-miles a journey through the rugged, heavily wooded Appalachian hill country and through an area rich in history, full of river lore and native American influences. WEBSITE

Recreation Scioto County beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse range of recreational activities. From scenic hiking trails and thrilling water sports along the Ohio River to serene camping spots and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, the county offers an endless playground for nature lovers of all ages. Hiking For the best hiking spots in Scioto County, check out Shawnee State Park , Raven Rock Nature Preserve , and Wayne National Forest . For a more quiet and secluded experience, check out the hiking opportunities through the preserves of Arc of Appalachia: Gladys Riley Golden Star Lily Preserve , Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve , and Tremper Mound . Water Sports For the best kayak/canoeing spots, check out The Scioto River (launch site at Alexandria Point), Roosevelt Lake, Turkey Creek Lake , and Scioto Brush Creek . For the best boating, head to the Ohio River. Boat ramps are available at Shawnee State Marina , Shawnee Boat Club , The Anchor Pad Boat Club , and Holiday Point Marina and Campground . Disc Golf For the best disc golf courses in Scioto County, check out the Earl Thomas Conley Park Course , and the Shawnee State Park Course . Camping For the best camping in Scioto County, check out our overview of campground s . Dog Parks For the best dog parks, check out Spock Memorial Dog Park in Portsmouth , and Shawnee State Ohio River Campground Dog Park . Golf & Miniature Golf For the best golfing, check out The Elks Country Club , Little Scioto Golf Course , and Wheelersburg Golf Center . For miniature golf, check out Buckeye Dairy Bar . Indoor Amusement If indoor amusement is what you are looking for, check out Southern Ohio Axe Throwing , Boneyfiddle Golf and Lounge , The Vault Ohio E-Sports & video gaming, or Deadbolt: Boneyfiddle Escape Rooms and Mysteries . Read our guide for all things indoor amusement in Scioto County! Mountain & Road Biking For the best mountain biking in Scioto County, check out Shawnee State Park . Horseback Riding For the best horseback riding in Scioto County, check out Ben's Happy Trails . If you are bringing your own horses, check out Bear Lake Horse Camp in Shawnee State Park . ATV Riding For the best ATV trails in Scioto County, check out Wayne National Forest . Fishing For the best fishing in Scioto County, check out Turkey Creek Lake, Roosevelt Lake , Lake Vesuvius , The Ohio River, and The Scioto River. There are also many Pay Lakes like Grey Wolf Pay Lake . Pump Tracks & Skate Park For the best pump tracks, check out Earl Thomas Conley Park and the Shawnee State Ohio River Campground . For the best skate park, check out Portsmouth Skate Park . Motorsports For the best motorsports, check out Portsmouth Raceway Park, KD Motorsports Park , and Wheelersburg Raceway . Farms & Orchards Scioto County's agritourism scene provides an authentic and immersive experience for visitors seeking to connect with the land and local traditions. From picking fresh apples in picturesque orchards to navigating challenging corn mazes on family farms, agritourism in Southern Ohio offers a delightful blend of rural charm and hands-on activities for all to enjoy. EXPLORE Indoor Amusement When the weather turns chilly or you're seeking indoor entertainment, Scioto County offers a range of thrilling options. Test your aim and competitive spirit at Southern Ohio Axe Throwing , or practice your swing at Boneyfiddle Golf and Lounge . Dive into mystery and puzzles at Deadbolt Escape Room , where your problem-solving skills are put to the test in immersive and exciting scenarios. Try your hand at video gaming at The Vault Ohio , a state-of-the-art ESPORTS and video arcade arena with a 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) fiber optic connection. Indoors in Scioto County, the fun never stops! EXPLORE Mountain biking in Shawnee State Forest was an exhilarating experience that exceeded all expectations. The forest's diverse trails offered a perfect mix of challenging climbs, thrilling descents, and breathtaking scenery. Whether navigating through lush woodlands or tackling rugged terrains, every twist and turn was a reminder of the sheer beauty and adventure that Shawnee State Forest has to offer to mountain biking enthusiasts like me." Alex Y.

Arts & Entertainment Events in Scioto County Explore Scioto County’s vibrant arts & entertainment scene! This is your premier destination for live music, theater performances, and artistic experiences in Scioto County, Ohio. From kid-friendly art events at the Portsmouth Area Arts Council , to live concerts at Columbia Theatre , or a musical at The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts , there is entertainment for everyone. Enjoy local arts, live music, & theatrical performances right here in Scioto County, Ohio!

Family Fun in Scioto County Ready for memorable family adventures in Scioto County, Ohio? Explore the best family fun events that Scioto County has to offer with this curated selection of kid-friendly events. From kid-friendly art events at the Portsmouth Area Arts Council to educational activities at the Scioto County Public Library , you’ll discover endless family-friendly events in Scioto County for all ages. Whether you’re looking for kids’ events this weekend or after-school activities, Scioto County has fun for the whole family!

Outdoors and Parks & Recreation Events in Scioto County Are you an outdoors enthusiast looking for local fun? Find all the parks, recreation, and outdoor events near Scioto County, Ohio here! Visit the Nature Nook or go on a hike at Shawnee State Park , explore educational events at the Arc of Appalachia , or experience the Christmas and Easter Caves at the White Gravel Mines . Find outdoor events you’ll love in Scioto County, Ohio!

About Meet our Director Hello and welcome to Portsmouth-Scioto Co unty! You can say that tourism has always been a part of my life in some way. As a kid, I grew up on a farm in northern Ohio just 20 minutes from one of the most famous amusement parks, Cedar Point Amusement Park. Despite being close to such a big attraction, my family traveled to various places around the country from Alaska to the Florida Keys and everywhere in between. This is where my inspiration for my career choice began. I began my career in tourism in a somewhat unconventional way. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Environment and Natural Resources with a focus on Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from The Ohio State University. After graduation, I traveled the country again, but this time not as a visitor, but rather as a park ranger for the National Park Service. My life as a park ranger took me to a variety of places across the country including Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and other such sites across the U.S. So what brings a park ranger to the hills of southern Ohio? My family. My wife and her family are from Minford, OH, located in the northeastern part of the county. Throughout my time here, I’ve grown to appreciate the cultural and natural resources we have right in our own backyard. From the hills in Shawnee State Forest to the Ohio River, there is always something beautiful to discover in Scioto County! I hope you enjoy your visit! – Nate Welch, Executive Director Stop by and see us! Tourism Partner & Member of the following organizations:

Scioto Travel and Tourism Blogs These travel and tourism blogs are your passport to adventure! They offer a delightful mix of personal stories, tips, and stunning visuals that inspire wanderlust in every reader. From hidden gems in Downtown Portsmouth to serene landscapes off the beaten path at Shawnee State Park and Forest, these blogs capture the essence of exploration within Portsmouth-Scioto County. Discover the Breathtaking Views from Copperhead Lookout Fire Tower on Your Next Adventure! Experience the wonderful views of Shawnee State Forest atop the Copperhead Fire Tower! Exploring Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park: Fun Activities for Every Visitor Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park is a hidden gem nestled near Portsmouth, with views of the Ohio River and the hills of Southern Ohio. Must-Visit Cozy Spots and Exciting Activities in Portsmouth-Scioto County Are you ready to dive into a world of warmth and fun? Explore some amazing places where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some indoor fun! Exploring the Enchanting Winter Landscapes of Scioto County In winter, Portsmouth-Scioto County transforms into a snowy playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The crisp air and scenic landscapes offer... Portsmouth Ohio: A Comeback Story of Community and Creativity Economic depression plagued the City of Portsmouth. But through arts, music, and community spirit, the city has experienced a resurgence. Capture the Magic of Christmas in a Small Town Capture the Magic of Christmas with a visit to Portsmouth-Scioto County! Shawnee State Park: A Nature Lover's Haven Shawnee State Park is one of Scioto County's hidden gems with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities and plenty of natural beauty. Adventures in the Arts and Culture of Portsmouth-Scioto County Looking for an adventure that explores the Arts and Culture of Portsmouth-Scioto County? Embrace your creative side by diving into... Scioto County Wilderness: Exploring Appalachia Ohio's Outdoors Explore the Great Outdoors of Portsmouth-Scioto County! From mountain biking at Shawnee State Park to horseback riding in Shawnee State... Looking to Start a Travel and Tourism Related Business? ECDI: A One-Stop Shop for Local Businesses Looking to start a Travel and Tourism related business? ECDI is a One-Stop Shop for Local Businesses to get their business started.

All Events in Scioto County Looking for popular events in Scioto County, OH? Your perfect day is just a click away! From family fun, live music, date ideas, art events, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for you to love here in the heart of Scioto County! Whether you are looking for live entertainment at Port City Pub , a sporting event at Shawnee State University , or family fun at the Scioto County Public Library , you’ll find it all here.