By: Audrey Williams
Columbus can be great, but between the constant noise of High Street and the stress of classes, city life can feel overwhelming. When you need a break, a weekend escape into nature with friends is the perfect way to reset and reconnect with your senses. Whether you are looking for a chill cabin weekend or backcountry camping, these locations will give you the taste of the outdoors you have been missing, all within a reasonable drive.
Yellow Springs, OH
The first on this list is Yellow Springs, Ohio, located about an hour east of Columbus. Named one of “America’s Coolest Small Towns” by Budget Travel, Yellow Springs has a uniquely appealing combination of a downtown full of fun shops, galleries and restaurants. Additionally, between John Bryan State Park, Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve and Glen Helen Nature Preserve, Yellow Springs offers a multitude of hiking trails.
If you are looking to splurge a bit on accommodations, I would recommend staying at Mills Park Hotel, a historic hotel right in the heart of downtown. This does require some planning ahead, however, as this hotel can book out pretty far in advance. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that immerses you in nature, camping in the surrounding parks and preserves is a great alternative.
Hocking Hills State Park, OH
Hocking Hills State Park, a destination most Ohionans have at least heard of before. This is not without good reason, as between its beautiful scenery and close distance to Columbus, Hocking Hills makes for a perfect nature escape. Featuring waterfalls, rock formations, gorges, and more, it can be hard to believe Hocking Hills is still in Ohio. Though the park does have a variety of campsites nearby, the most popular accommodations are renting cabins. Unwinding in a hot tub with friends is the perfect way to end the day.
If you are unsure where to start your day, head to Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center. Being the most popular location in Hocking Hills, parking can fill up pretty quickly on a nice day, so I would recommend getting in early. Here, you’ll have access to a variety of short, interconnecting trails, leading to well known sights such as Old Man’s Cave, Devil’s Bathtub and Lower Falls. Due to the proximity of these sights, you can customize just how much hiking you want to do, from under a mile to 5+ miles. Then, after you are done hiking, grab a picnic table near the Visitors Center and set up for lunch.
Zaleski State Forest, OH
If you head about 25 minutes southeast of Hocking Hills State Park, you will come upon Zaleski State Forest. Being the second largest state forest in Ohio, Zaleski is made up of 27,822 acres of woodland scenery. It is most well known for its 23-mile backpacking trail, but also contains many shorter day hike options. You can also visit a shooting range, go horseback riding and check out the historic landmarks, such as Moonville Tunnel and Hope Furnace.
Zaleski hosts impressive overnight backpacking options, but for those looking for something less intense, I would recommend staying in Lake Hope State Park, located within Zaleski. Offering 187 campsites and 67 cabins, a swimming beach perfect for warm days and even a central dining lodge, this is the perfect way to channel ultimate summer camp vibes. Insider tip: bring extra blankets or a sleeping bag if you have one. These cabins are far from a luxury, so plan ahead on the weather to avoid being cold at night.
Red River Gorge, KY
Located four hours south of Columbus, Red River Gorge, Kentucky is the furthest destination on this list. This drive, however, is well worth it, as Red River Gorge holds arguably the most impressive views on this list. Visitors can opt to rent a cabin or yurt, stay in a cozy inn, or, the most popular option, pitch a tent and camp. With an impressive landscape known for its massive, naturally formed rock arches, there are a multitude of hikes ending in impressive and inspiring viewpoints. One of the most famous destinations is Natural Bridge, a massive rock arch with a beautiful overlook of the Gorge that you can climb on top of.
Though best known for hiking and climbing, Red River Gorge also hosts a variety of other outdoor activities, such as underground kayaking through a flooded mine, ziplining and UTV tours. No matter how you spend your time in the Gorge, you have to make time to grab a slice from Miguel’s Pizza, a well known social hub for visitors to the area. Between its delicious food, local atmosphere, and great drinks, Miguel’s Pizza truly is the heart of Red River Gorge.
No matter where you decide to go or how much you hike, getting away for the weekend can be an incredibly rejuvenating and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a change of scenery, these outdoor getaways offer a refreshing break from the hustle of Columbus. So grab your friends, pack your gear, and head out into nature to explore!