Scioto Trail State Park | Chillicothe

Scioto Trail State Park is a scenic and tranquil state park located in southern Ohio, approximately 12 miles south of Chillicothe. Encompassing about 218 acres, the park is nestled within the much larger Scioto Trail State Forest, which covers around 9,000 acres of woodland. This location places the park in the rolling foothills of the Appalachian region, offering visitors beautiful natural landscapes marked by wooded hills, valleys, and sweeping views of the Scioto River Valley.

Natural Setting and Landscape

The park’s terrain features a mix of hardwood forests, gentle hills, and quiet water bodies. This setting provides a peaceful environment ideal for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. The varied topography and dense tree cover create excellent habitats for local wildlife, making the park a great destination for nature observation, bird watching, and photography.

Camping Facilities

Scioto Trail State Park caters to a wide range of campers, from those seeking a more rustic experience to visitors who prefer modern conveniences:

Electric Campsites: There are 55 campsites equipped with 30/50 amp electric hookups, suitable for RVs and campers who require power.

Primitive Campsites: For visitors wanting a more traditional camping experience, the park offers 18 walk-in, non-electric primitive sites near Stewart Lake, providing a secluded and quiet option.

Cabins: Two rustic cabins are available to rent, offering shelter and basic amenities for campers who prefer not to use tents or RVs. These cabins provide a comfortable midpoint between primitive camping and more modern accommodations.

Additional amenities within the campground include pressurized water access, vault toilets, a dump station for RV waste, picnic tables, fire rings, and a seasonal camp store. The camp store supplies basic camping necessities, snacks, and rental equipment such as paddle boats for use on Caldwell Lake.

Water Activities: Boating and Fishing

Caldwell Lake, a key feature of the park, provides opportunities for boating and fishing. Visitors can bring or rent hand-powered boats like kayaks and canoes or use electric motor boats, as the park prohibits gasoline-powered engines to maintain tranquility and environmental quality. Boat rentals are available seasonally from the campground check-in station, making it convenient for visitors who do not have their own watercraft.

The lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, including bluegill, bass, catfish, and trout. This diversity makes it a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels. Anglers are required to have a valid Ohio fishing license, and fishing regulations apply to ensure sustainable use of the fish populations.

Hiking and Trails

Scioto Trail State Park offers several well-maintained trails that showcase the area's natural beauty:

Church Hollow Trail: A challenging 2-mile trail rated as difficult, this path takes hikers through rugged terrain with steep sections and scenic overlooks.

3-C Trail: A moderate 1-mile trail suitable for hikers who want a manageable walk through forested areas.

Friendship Trail: A short, easy 0.4-mile trail designed for families and visitors of all ages, providing a gentle walk with opportunities to enjoy the forest environment.

These trails are also popular for mountain biking and trail running, and they allow visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse ecosystems of the Scioto River Valley.

Swimming and Recreation Facilities

Near the campground, the park features a small wading beach on Caldwell Lake. Open during daylight hours, the beach offers a safe and accessible spot for swimming and relaxation, though pets are not permitted in this area to maintain cleanliness and safety.

In addition to water-based recreation, the park provides picnic areas equipped with tables and grills for group gatherings and outdoor meals. Visitors can also enjoy recreational facilities such as playgrounds for children, basketball courts for sports enthusiasts, and horseshoe pits for casual games.

Pet Policy and Visitor Guidelines

Pets are welcome throughout Scioto Trail State Park but must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are expected to clean up after their animals. This policy helps maintain a safe and pleasant environment for all visitors and protects local wildlife.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

The park is located at 144 Lake Road, Chillicothe, Ohio, and can be contacted by phone for reservations or information. The campground and cabins require reservations, which can be made via a state park reservation system.

Summary

Scioto Trail State Park is a versatile outdoor destination that combines natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly facilities. Whether visitors are interested in hiking challenging trails, fishing and boating on Caldwell Lake, camping under the stars, or simply enjoying a picnic in a wooded setting, the park offers diverse opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Its location within the larger Scioto Trail State Forest further enhances the experience by providing an extensive area of protected wilderness, making it a valuable natural resource for southern Ohio residents and visitors alike.