Family lying on grass outdoors in spring park
Warm sunny days are best spent exploring the great outdoors. In Southeastern Ohio, finding a wild escape is never too hard. In Athens, Ohio, there are many nature spots to take advantage of while the days are bright and beautiful. One local favorite is Strouds Run State Park, home of Dow Lake and all of its wondrous features.
Home to Many Creatures
Strouds Run State Park is 2,606 acres of uninterrupted hardwood forests marked with deep glacial ravines, several mounds and ancient fortifications of the Adena tribe. In addition to the diverse foliage and unique features, Strouds’ forest floor is home to animals like the white-tail deer, fox, raccoon, opossum, squirrel and wild turkey. High in the forest canopy dwell a variety of songbirds including the woodthrush, white-breasted nuthatch, scarlet tanager, pileated woodpecker and the rufous-sided towhee.
Playground For the Locals
For the nature lovers Strouds Run State Park offers an abundance of outdoor activites to get you up close and personal with primitive Athens, Ohio. The 2600-plus untouched acres supply many spots for picnicking, fishing, hunting, hiking, swimming, boating and camping. While not all of these activities are available year-round, the actual park is open through every season. You’ll never have to go without a healthy dose of great outdoor adventure!
Let’s Get Involved
Now I understand nature isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but for those of us who enjoy mingling with unrefined natural beauty, Strouds Run State Park is a perfect place to visit in Athens, Ohio. Strouds is pet friendly so you can bring the whole family for a scenic hike or refreshing swim. There are also several coves to explore either by foot or by boat. The boathouse rents pedal boats, kayaks, canoes, pontoons and hydro-bikes on weekends until Memorial Day weekend. After Memorial Day weekend, the boathouse is open 11 a.m. until dark for boat rentals only.
Also available for rental are three covered pavilions and over 70 camp sites close to all the fun and adventure. For more information about the boathouse, pavilions or camping, call 740-594-2628. Maybe you need something a little more civilized? No worries! There are two furnished cabins available by reservation when you call 1-888-644-6727. Despite your nature comfort level, there is something exciting for you at Strouds Run State Park!
Can you enjoy the simple pleasures of nature?