Escape to Ohio’s Great Outdoors in The Fall

Fall color season is great time to hike in a state park, forest or preserve

Park Events Calendar

Few sights are as appealing as Ohio’s great outdoors in autumn. From organized hikes to bird watching and canoe tours, there’s no shortage of things to do in state parks, forests and preserves. Here’s a sampling of upcoming events:

Weekend of October 31-November 2

Haunted Hocking at Hocking Hills State Park in Hocking County – Friday, Oct. 31 and Saturday, Nov. 1 at the Old Man’s Cave campground. Enjoy pumpkin decorating, campsite decorating contests, hayrides, trick-or-treat, and a spooky family movie. Call 740-385-6841.

Snowflake Festival at Mt. Gilead State Park in Morrow County – Friday, Oct. 31 through Sunday, Nov. 2. Celebrate the coming of winter by decorating your campsite for Christmas. Enjoy nature programs, arts & crafts and other fun activities. Call 419-946-1961 or 740-369-2761.

Veterans Day Celebration at Hueston Woods State Park in Preble County – Saturday, Nov. 1 in the campground. Veterans will be honored with a parade, recognition ceremony and fun family activities including a cookout. Call 513-523-6347.

Hearthside Cookery Workshop at Malabar Farm State Park in Richland County – Saturday, Nov. 1 and Sunday, Nov. 2, 10 AM-5 PM. Also held on Nov. 8-9. Help prepare a Thanksgiving feast over an open fire and then sample your efforts at a sit-down dinner. Each day is a complete workshop. Pre-registration and a $30 fee are required. Call 419-892-2784.

Winter Bird Buffet at Van Buren State Park in Hancock County – Sunday, Nov. 2 at 2 PM at the nature center shelterhouse. Learn the techniques of winter bird feeding and make a pinecone feeder to take home. Dress warmly for a short hike. Call 419-832-7662.