It takes a brave soul to want to go winter camping in Ohio. That being said, those who dare pitch their tent in the middle of the coldest season will be rewarded with some supremely stunning scenery, peace and quiet, and the most mesmerizing blanket of stars. Today, we're taking a good look at one of our favorite state parks for camping, Cowan Lake State Park. It's got everything we love about camping in Ohio: hiking trails, quality amenities, and beautiful scenery.
Tucked away in southwest Ohio, Cowan Lake State Park offers 1,775 acres of pristine wooded and lakeside landscape to enjoy. Like many of Ohio's most beautiful places, its history runs deep. Long ago, it was a stronghold of the Miami and Shawnee Indians. After the Battle of Fallen Timbers, a permanent settlement was established and named for the area's surveyor, John Cowan. Cowan Creek was dammed in 1950 and by 1968, the state park was opened.
Anyone with an interest in Ohio's natural history will find a lot to appreciate about Cowan Lake State Park. It's situated near the Cincinnati Arch, which is an uplifted bedrock that formed alongside the Appalachian Mountains. The eventual erosion of the arch led to exposed fossil-rich limestone. Today, this region is one of the world's most famous fossil-hunting fields. Along the water, you'll discover a picturesque beech-maple forest, which is absolutely resplendent in the autumn. In the late spring and summer months, wildflowers are abundant in the woods. Wildlife may not be as obvious in the winter, but the park is no less stunning when it's cold.
Year-round camping opportunities mean that you can experience the best of the park in every season. The large campground features 250 sites and a handful of cabins to choose from, and reservations are highly recommended. Amenities include a camp store, bathhouse, showers, full hook-up sites, and ADA-compliant campsites. Guests should note that some of these amenities are only open seasonally.
When you're at the park, hiking is a must. Some of the most popular hiking trails at Cowan Lake include the Spillway Trail, which is a 5.2-mile out-and-back trail, and the Dogwood Trail, which is an easy 1-mile trail.
The campground is popular among families, who note that the facilities are clean, and the hiking trails and playgrounds are suitable for youngsters. Ready to plan your big camping adventure? Head on over to the official Cowan Lake State Park website, and don't forget to check out our list of camping gear recommendations!
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