Outdoors Staycation

With more than 8,000 acres of green space, Fairfield County is a dream come true for fans of the great outdoors! Our nature preserves and parks offer a little something for everyone. We also have some great places for you to rest and refuel.

Whatever your pleasure, you are sure to enjoy Buckeye Lake! Tour the lake on a pontoon boat or rent a kayak and explore on your own. Hit the Buckeye Lake Dam Trail for four miles of hiking and biking fun. Visit the state park for some of the best bird watching in the region, or just dip your pole in the water as you walk along the shoreline.

Pro tip: Relax and watch the boats go by as you savor a delicious meal (and a taste of Napa Valley!) at Buckeye Lake Winery. Then head over to Weldon’s Ice Cream for a hand-dipped sweet treat.

Ready to get above it all? We have lots of ways to help you with that! Go rappelling or tackle one of the monster zips at Valley Zipline Tours. Try something new and jump on a hoverboard to fly above the waves at Jet Pack Water Adventures. Climb the trail through Rising Park and check out the view from the top of Mt. Pleasant – or hike your way up Jacob’s Ladder for the amazing panorama at Christmas Rocks Nature Preserve.

Pro tip: You’ve worked up an appetite! Have a seat at the historic bar or head to a table for a fresh, homemade feast at Cherry Street Pub.

Explore our parks to find some terrific outdoor adventures. Stretch your legs on a 10-mile bike ride or hike on the Bike Trail. Head to Cenci Lake for some of the best fishing in central Ohio. Try your hand at one of Ohio’s most highly rated disc golf courses at Keller-Kirn Park. You’ll find a variety of trails in Alley Park that are perfectly suited for hikers of all experience levels, including those of you who are looking for a real challenge.

Pro tip: Try one of the fantastic downtown dining options – JB’s Downtown Grill or O’Huids Gaelic Pub – for a delicious dinner. Top off the evening with a stroll through the vineyards at Rockside Winery or a visit to Double Edge Brewing Co.