Never underestimate Ohio. This state park is easily one of the best in the state, and I absolutely…read moreloved my trip here. The lodge was amazing and made the whole experience even better. The welcome center seemed brand new and was really well done, with a small museum, plus access to the campground and tons of cabins available to rent. The hiking here is incredible. We did the Hemlock Gorge Trail, and it was just the right level of challenge while still being super enjoyable. The scenery was beautiful the entire way. I also highly recommend checking out the Little and Big Lyons waterfalls. It made for a great loop trail and was definitely a highlight. The park itself is very well maintained. We visited right after some heavy winds, so there were quite a few downed trees, but maintenance was already out there actively clearing and fixing things, which was impressive to see. Overall, such a beautiful park and a trip full of unforgettable memories.

There is lots of natural beauty here, even on a muddy February day. The trails are very well…read moremarked. We loved Lyons Falls and the Gorge Overlook Trail. The steep downhill descent was worth it for the river views and crossing the cable bridge. The restrooms near the dam were open, but badly in need of cleaning.

Mt. Jeez Overlook is on the property of Malabar Farm State Park, but it's kind of its own thing…read more Some places mark it as being in Perrysville, and some in Lucas. Wherever it is, you'll find it by driving to Malabar Farm off of Pleasant Valley Road, and following the signs to the overlook. The dirt road that takes you to the overlook is a bit bumpy, so hang on to your butts. But there's no other option -- you can't really walk up to the overlook because there's nowhere to park at the bottom. But, there's parking at the top, so I'm thinking that that's what you're supposed to do: endure the minute-long bumpy ride. Once you're at the top, you will be treated to fabulous views of central Ohio countryside. The overlook is the highest point on Malabar Farm, and at more than 1,300 feet above sea level, Mount Jeez will give you an up-high look at farmland for several miles. This is an amazing spot to just sit (there's a bench up here) and take in the view. There's also a hiking trail in the woods just off the overlook. We didn't venture too far into the path when we visited, but it's there and it is beautiful when everything is growing and blooming.

Go on a clear evening for sunset. Golden hour light is divine. Sun sets a little earlier due to…read morehigher tree line. Beautiful.

One of our favorite outdoor spots. A shaded waterfall area, shallow pool and creek and smooth…read moretrails. There is also a path to the top of the waterfall. The kids have fun for hours here. Some nice benches and plenty of large rocks to hang out on. Parking is just across the road and there are a few porta potties by the parking. The waterfall isn't far once you get on the trail. The river is a farther walk but does have a very strong current so no swimming over there.

Neat little stop. Wasn't much water when we stopped tho. Hiking areas in the woods and some neat…read morerock formations.

Love this place! Long trails with lots to see. The bike path is spacious and has amazing views.read more

Great place to bring family or just hang out with friends. Bring your kayaks for some fun and see…read morethe guys singing in the rocks. Pack you lunch and or snacks.

This was such a fun stop! There are live farm animals here, and the pastures looked well…read moremaintained with plenty of space for them to roam, which was great to see. The welcome center was pretty nice and had a small kids museum inside that was interactive. There's also a gift shop with cute merch, local items, maple syrup, and other extras. They offer tours of some of the buildings for purchase, which is a cool option if you want a deeper experience, but even just walking around the property on your own is enjoyable. Overall, a really nice place to explore for a bit.

I've learned that sometimes when you are about to review a place, read other reviews and step back…read moreand think. I was about to give it a three until I read reviews. I didn't go and visit the house, I didn't take the tours, I was about to base it on how it didn't personally fit my needs. I would have wanted to camp there and realize it wasn't for me. Now for the positive, it's a beautiful place and it has great historic value. I loved the store. The young person behind the counter was so nice and helpful. We bought a gallon of maple syrup and a smaller one for our camper. It was on sale for 10% discount. The greatest thing though is that they sell fresh meat from the farm. They have a cool place for the kids on the other side of the store. The cute parrot pictured was in the lobby.

I enjoyed the hike today, taking in the fall colors and crisp autumn air. The trails are…read morewell-marked and easy to navigate with good footwear. There is a pond and a unique play area for kids (unlike the boring "jungle gym style playground). A lot of tree and nature identification plaques, and benches to sit for a spell and experience nature.

Have been here twice with family and enjoyed both experiences greatly. The staff is friendly and…read morehelpful and the area is beautiful. The trail around the lake is pretty and offers fun looks at the geese and ducks on the lake as well as the other local animals that might cross your path. The observation tower gives amazing views of the area to enjoy and the main building offers very interesting educational displays and activities. I'm also very fond of their indoor bird watching area. A great place to spend some time with nature. Highly recommended.

Beautiful man made waterfall with a viewing deck! Long paths that go down close to it, overall…read more10/10 (5.0 stars) (My review from Google maps)

Hidden gem This is…read morethe coolest park for pictures in the area. A great little hike down and you are at the river. The large rocks are perfect for taking pictures. There is a picnic area and some bathrooms but the bathrooms are very old. I remember coming to this park as a kid and being my kids as well.

Birding hotspot!…read more It's a little more than an hours drive East of Columbus. It's kind of out in the middle of nowhere but it's worth the drive to see some beautiful wildlife, especially birds. The wildlife area consists of seasonally flooded moist soil meadows and bottomland hardwoods. You can expect to see migrants, shorebirds, waterfowl, Bald eagles andantes other birds that aren't usually seen in the city. Be sure to bring your spotting scope if you have one and a good pair of binoculars. Enjoy the fresh air and everything that nature has to offer.

Loved it, had lots of fun! Lost glasses and yeti and had laughs! Will be back soon!read more

Rafting family trip…read more We went on a Saturday to canoe. We had two adults and 3 kids in our group. I asked what they would recommend based on the river conditions. I was told we could not fit all 5 of us in the canoe we would need a raft. We decided on the 3 mile trip since it was supposed to take 2 to 3 hours. It only took about an hour. For the price I would recommend taking the 7 mile trip since it was a lot of money for a short period of time.