Ohio's Forest-Laden State Park Is The Most Perfect Peaceful Place For Hiking, Fishing, And Fun Fossil Hunting

Shine a spotlight on someone not from Ohio and ask them to reel off some things they know about the Buckeye State, and they might tell you it's the Birthplace of Aviation, that it's the birthplace of several U.S. presidents, or that it's the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They probably won't shout about what a lovely outdoorsy destination it is, or that it boasts — in places like Hueston Woods State Park — some truly epic scenery to lose yourself amongst.

Don't, however, see this lack of public knowledge about Ohio's beauty or underestimation of its natural offerings as a problem. Instead, see it as a golden opportunity to enjoy some peace and quiet in a verdant setting before the figurative cat makes its escape from the figurative bag. The nearest international airport to Hueston Woods State Park is Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), just over 50 miles away, while the nearest domestic-flights-only airport is the confusingly named Dayton International, roughly 45 miles away. Yes, throw accessibility onto the list of reasons to visit Hueston Woods State Park alongside hiking, fishing, and fossil-hunting fun. Knowledgeable sorts will waste no time in telling you that these kinds of places make for the best fall getaways in the Midwest.

Head to Hueston Woods State Park and you'll be presented with a lovely array of short-but-sweet hiking options that weave through 200 acres of virgin forest. Lacking somewhat in terms of distance (the Appalachian Trail, they are not), the routes still pack a punch when it comes to serving up soul-soothing goodness beneath the canopy of the trees. Speaking of which, many of the beech trees you'll find here — which make up nearly 44% of the forest — are over 200 years old. One sampled beech in these parts was even found to be close to 300 years old, 50 years older than the United States. The beeches tower over those tackling the trails, watching over them amongst a mix of sugar maples, red and white oaks, and white ash trees.

Want to learn more about this idyllic environment? Keep an eye out for educational placards dotted about the place as you immerse yourself in the delights of such a gorgeous park. One of the best routes here is Cedar Falls Loop. Just over a mile in length, it only serves up 82 feet of elevation gain and should take you less than an hour to complete. And while this might not sound like much, it does manage to pack a whole lot of beauty into its relatively condensed form. A family-friendly option, where dogs on leashes are welcome, the walk will reward you with birdwatching opportunities and great views of the creek.

The Blue Heron Hiking Trail is another excellent stroll that won't push you to the outer reaches of your physical limits. A mile in length, this looped route takes an average of just 23 minutes to complete. Only a little longer, in terms of duration, than your average episode of "The Simpsons", highlights of this quiet route include the Hueston Woods Sugar House and splendid views of the man-made reservoir known as Acton Lake.

Located in the heart of the almost 3,000-acre park and spread out over 625 acres, Acton Lake is a big draw for anglers. Home to a population of largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, and bluegill, this southwestern corner of Ohio is a dreamy little spot for anyone who enjoys casting out a line and reeling in a big one. Keep in mind that fishers aged 16 years and above must possess a valid Ohio fishing license, which can be purchased online before making the trip. At Hueston Woods Marina, between Memorial Day in late May and Labor Day in early September, you can rent pontoon boats, fishing boats, kayaks, canoes, and even paddleboards.

If you're more of a rock enthusiast, Hueston Woods State Park has got you well and truly covered. This part of Ohio, in fact, is one of the world's most famous fossil-hunting destinations. On display in the park's ancient limestone here, you'll be able to stop and admire some pretty Ordovician fossils. And that's not all. Budding geologists and paleontologists are sure to feel a buzz when they first set eyes on the brachiopod and trilobite fossils dotted around the place. Every time you spot one for yourself, it serves as a reminder that Ohio was actually a shallow inland sea 450 million years ago. Because the fossils are so abundant in this area, you're allowed to take them away for personal use and collections.

With so much to see and do in Hueston Woods State Park, it's worth staying for an evening or two simply to maximize the experience. Whether you're a humble tent sort or more about rolling from nature-A to nature-B in an RV, heading to Hueston Woods Campground makes the most sense. There are showers, toilets, picnic tables, campfires, and — what's more — pets are allowed. This place can fill up quickly, so get organized and book your site for the night well in advance. Then make your way to Cuyahoga Valley National Park or Maumee Bay State Park for further outside adventures in Ohio.