7 Places in central Ohio to reconnect with nature over spring break

7 Places in central Ohio to reconnect with nature this spring

Looking for something to do over spring break? Why not spend some time reconnecting with the great outdoors? Children need time outdoors not only for physical exercise, but to exercise their creativity, their wonder, and their appreciation for the world God has created. Central Ohio has some wonderful areas to spend time outdoors.


1. HOCKING HILLS STATE PARK   

Hocking Hills State Park is considered on of the most beautiful natural areas in the Midwest. With eight unique areas to explore, there are endless opportunities  reconnect with nature. 

Tip: Ash Cave provides a safe family friendly hike. Stay on the lower trail and even the youngest explorers can safely visit the largest recessed cave in Ohio.

more information: https://www.hockinghills.com/



2. OTHER STATE PARKS

Ohio has some fantastic state parks. Parks near Central Ohio include: Alum Creek State Park, Deer Creek State Park, and Mohican State Park. There are plenty of trails, and while spring may be too cold to take advantage of the beaches, head to the marina and rent a couple of Kayaks or have lunch on a pontoon boat!  Many of these parks also offer over night accommodations. 

Tip: Alum Creek State Park has a Storybook Trail where younger children can read and learn about creation as they hike the 1/2 mile grassy trail.

more information: https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-odnr/division-parks-watercraft


3. METRO PARKS

Columbus Metro Parks are full of wonderful places to explore. With 22 parks in central Ohio, beautiful nature walks are just the beginning. In most parks the Nature Centers are back open to the public and full of fossils, artifacts, and hands on learning activities. For older kids and teens, disc golf is a fun way to burn off some energy while enjoy the great outdoors.  And everyone will enjoy seeing the bison at Battelle Darby Creek Park

Tip: Some of the nature centers offer special activities such as night hikes while others even provide "little explorer" packs for kids. Check with your local park for details. 

more information: https://www.metroparks.net/


4. DELAWARE PRESERVATION PARKS

If you looking for all the fun of the Metro Parks, but with fewer crowds, the Delaware County Preservation Parks are a great option. These 11 parks boast quiet trails, nature centers and activities like Geocaching. 

Tip: Char-Mar Ridge Park in Westerville offers an fitness trail with specific exercise stations posted along the 1.7 mile loop. 

more information: https://preservationparks.com/


5. NATURAL PLAYGROUNDS

This newer addition to many parks creates dedicated space for children to play in, around, and on nature. Logs are used for bridges, sticks are formed into natural forts, and streams become splash pads. Natural playgrounds are available at many local parks including Highbanks Metro Park, Blendon Woods Metro Park, and Shale Hollow Park.

Tip: Remember to bring a towel or change of shoes/clothes - these areas can get muddy!


6. FRANKLIN PARK CONSERVATORY

If the weather doesn't permit outdoor activities, you can still enjoy nature at the Franklin Park Conservatory. The Conservatory boasts several different climate controlled greenhouses with many exotic species of plants. Your children will love to explore this fantastic display of the biodiversity in nature. 

Tip: Give your child a camera for the day. Challenge them to capture God's creation through the lens. Have the photos printed and watch your child experience the wonder of the trip over again.

more information: https://www.fpconservatory.org/


7. YOUR BACKYARD


Nature is all around us - even in the city. Spend some time in your backyard and see what you can find. Print off a scavenger hunt (like this one) and see who in the family can complete it first. You can also dig into gardening. Take your child to your local garden center and let them pick out a few colorful plants and spend the afternoon planting them in a special place.

Don't know how to garden? Check out this child gardening kit on Amazon? 


Other Ideas or something we missed? Share Below!


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