In the Cincinnati area, there’s no excuse to avoid getting in touch with nature. Within a few short hours of the city, there are numerous state parks that overflow with natural beauty and adventure and are easily accessible for all interests and abilities. Here, we’ve featured nine of the best state parks that are very close to home and are spread out between Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. You might be surprised by the diversity and activities available when you visit these amazing state parks near Cincinnati.
8570 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068, USA
Located about an hour northeast of downtown, Caesar Creek is a popular destination in the town of Waynesville. This gorgeous area is great for all sorts of outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. The history of this land is fascinating and the 1,300 ft sandy beach is a great escape in the summer.
East Fork State Park Campground, 2837 Old State Rte 32, Batavia, OH 45103, USA
East Fork State Park is one of the closest locations to Cincinnati, as it is situated in Bethel. This large park is known for its exciting hiking trails and 2,160 acre lake that is ideal for any water activity. The campground is also popular with 416 sites and beautiful views.
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John Bryan State Park, 3790 OH-370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387, USA
Nearby in Yellow Springs, John Bryan State Park is one of the most scenic parks in the state. With picturesque hiking trails and a number of waterfalls scattered throughout the park, this park serves as a natural museum of how the land once was. The Little Miami River provides excellent fishing and the park also has 100 non-electric campsites.
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Brown County State Park Road, Brown County State Park Rd, Nashville, IN 47448, USA
A little further away into Indiana, you'll find Brown County State Park. Indiana's largest state park is in Nashville, a quaint town worth a visit on its own. The large park is full of endless activity and opportunities for exploration and the rustic Abe Martin Lodge makes it an ideal spot year round.
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Clifty Falls State Park, 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250, USA
Also in Indiana, Clifty Falls State Park is a magical park near the charming town of Madison that's a fall foliage favorite. Aptly named for its beautiful waterfalls, there are plenty of unique hikes and activities within this popular park.
Versailles State Park, 1387 US-50, Versailles, IN 47042, USA
Just a short drive from Cincinnati, Versailles State Park is an Indiana favorite that's tucked away in thick forest and around a lovely 230-acre lake. A large campground is available, as well as a refreshing pool that is great for families. The park has great hiking, and biking options. You'll also have the chance to get out on the lake with a canoe or kayak.
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, 3380 Beaver Rd, Union, KY 41091, USA
Next we head south into Northern Kentucky to one of the most unique parks in the region. Big Bone Lick State Park is home to the infamous herd of American buffalo, and it also has a campground and numerous acres to explore and discover.
General Butler State Resort Park, Kentucky 227, Carrollton, KY, USA
Also in Kentucky, but not too far from Cincinnati, General Butler is a resort park, which means it has a lovely resort atmosphere and lodge, making it a great getaway. This historic area is named after General William Orlando Butler from colonial times and its hilltop location offers spectacular views of the scenic surroundings.
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Kincaid Lake State Park, 565 Kincaid Park Road, Falmouth, KY 41040, USA
In nearby Falmouth, Kentucky is an underrated gem in the Bluegrass State, Kincaid Lake State Park. The lake itself is a great spot for fishing, boating, and swimming and the lakefront pool is a relaxing retreat, close to Cincinnati.
Do you take advantage of our area’s wonderful state parks? Did we miss your favorite state parks to visit near Cincinnati? Share with us in the comments so we can check them out next!
For another beautiful place to explore in our little corner of the Buckeye State, venture out to the Cincinnati Nature Center and hike through Ohio’s very own old-growth forest!
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More to Explore
State parks to visit near Cincinnati
Sarah M.|February 15, 2022
What's the best state park to visit in Ohio?
With a total of 75 state parks, it’s difficult to determine which one is the single best state park in Ohio. While the above list of amazing state parks to visit near Cincinnati is certainly a great place to start, if you want to explore *the* best state park in the Buckeye State, head to Salt Fork State Park in Cambridge, Ohio. With gorgeous scenery, preserved history, and so many things to do, there’s plenty to explore year-round, which is why it gets our vote for Ohio's single best state park!
What are some other beautiful parks near Cincinnati?
The Queen City might well be known as the Green City, because in addition to being within striking distance of several top Ohio State Parks, the Cincinnati Parks System is home to some truly spectacular places. Eden Park, Ault Park, Smale Riverfront Park, Mt. Airy Forest, and Washington Park are all totally amazing Cincinnati Parks, and each well-worth checking out. But don't forget about the Hamilton County Parks, too; this county park system is remarkable, with places such as Sharon Woods, Winton Woods, and theOtto Armleder Memorial Park & Recreation Complex all standing out as beautiful places to spend an afternoon.
Are there any nature centers in Cincinnati?
Absolutely -- the eponymous Cincinnati Nature Center truly is one of the city's greatest treasures. Within the CNC, Rowe Woods is 1,016 acres of pure natural beauty; its 14 miles of trails traverse deciduous woodlands, fields, streams, ponds, wetlands, and even an old-growth forest! The CNC is home to 65 acres of old-growth forest, in fact; and the CNC’s Upland Trail takes explorers straight through it. At just 1.34 miles long, the Upland Trail makes for an accessible trek for hikers of all ages and abilities. It's well-marked and well-paved; however, there are a few areas with steps and rocky terrain, so be sure and wear proper shoes! This is one of our favorite accessible hikes in Cincinnati, and absolutely an experience for your bucket list!
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50 Versailles, Indiana 47042
1501 Green Rd. Madison, IN 47250
1810 State Road 46 E Nashville, IN 47448
3380 Beaver Road Union, Kentucky 41091
1608 Highway 227 Carrollton, Kentucky 41008
370Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
3294 Elklick Road Bethel, Ohio 45106
8570 East State Route 73 Waynesville, OH 45068
