EDITORS NOTE: This is the fourth in a series of fall color updates highlighting some of the best locations to enjoy Ohio's fall foliage. Updated reports are available from ODNR each Thursday through the end of October.
COLUMBUS, OH - A forecast of mild temperatures and peak color conditions promise prime fall color viewing for most of Ohio this weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
“Peak or near-peak colors are appearing all across the Buckeye State,” said Bill Schultz, fall color spokesman for the ODNR Division of Forestry. “Central and southern Ohio should be the destinations of choice for this weekend's fall color viewing. Northern Ohio is beginning to see some fading and lots of leaf drop due to the rain and winds.”
He noted that yellows, oranges and rust colors are the most abundant shades now, but the oaks in southern Ohio should turn on their red and purple hues by the end of the month.
Additional seasonal events are scheduled for Saturday, October 23, at Great Seal State Park in Ross County, Cleveland Lakefront State Park in Cuyahoga County, Quail Hollow State Park in Stark County and Van Buren State Park in Hancock County. Special campouts are set this weekend for East Fork State Park in Clermont County and Lake Alma State Park in Vinton County.
To help Ohioans and out-of-state visitors make the most of this popular outdoor season, weekly updates are available from the best fall color viewing locations across the state by calling 1-800-BUCKEYE. Users can also find fall color information on the Internet at ohiodnr.com . Ohio's 74 state parks, 20 state forests and 128 state nature preserves provide excellent locations for viewing fall color up close. Here's a list of recommended areas: