Guide to Ohio’s Salt Fork State Park
A Weekend Getaway Trip for Water fun and Hiking in the Buckeye State. A guide to activities at Salt Fork State Park, one of the great parks in the state of Ohio.
With over 80 state parks to choose from, Ohio is a nature lover’s paradise. One of the most popular parks is Salt Fork State Park near Cambridge. Easily accessible off Interstate 77 near I-70, Salt Fork is an hour’s drive from Columbus and two hours from Cleveland.
At the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the area features rolling hills and valleys, and the large necklace-shaped Salt Fork Lake. The lake is almost 3,000 acres of water, making it one of the largest lakes in Ohio. The large size and many access points make it one of the most enjoyable natural wonders in the Buckeye State. Stop at the park office near the entrance for information.
Water, Water, Everywhere
The lake is the focal point of the entertainment activities of the Park. There is a 2,500-foot beach with an equally large parking lot, with concessions and changing facilities. There are numerous boat launching ramps, and boats of unlimited horsepower are permitted on the lake, allowing water skiing.
If you have your own boat, there are 526 rental docks, or you can rent a boat from the concessions at the marina. If you would rather remain on land, there are beautiful views of the water from parking areas on the roads surrounding the lake.
Hiking
The Park has 14 measured and well-marked trails, ranging from less than a half-mile to two miles. Only experienced hikers should attempt the difficult and dangerous Hosak’s Cave trail, or attempt trailblazing in the Park. At over 17,000 acres, you can wander for quite a while. There are also bridle trails, horse rental not included.
Activities
Near the beach, there is a small nature center, with education on the animals that inhabit the area and a miniature golf course. For more of a challenge, there is a full-size 18-hole golf course, over very hilly terrain. Basketball and volleyball courts are in the park, and other areas for fun are in the campground areas. Picnic areas are located throughout the park. The fun continues into the winter months, with snowmobiling, ice skating, cross country skiing, and ice fishing.
Lodging
There are a number of options for an overnight stay in the park. Salt Fork Lodge offers 148 guest rooms, and all the amenities of a nice hotel, with swimming pools and a separate beach and boat launch. There are 54 cottages available for rent all year. The modern campground in the park has 212 sites. Another lodging is available outside the park.
Salt Fork is said to have derived its name from a salt well used by Native Americans. It is a great place to spend some time enjoying nature in beautiful Ohio.
Salt Fork State Park
14755 Cadiz Rd, Lore City, OH 43755