Why Do Nature Lover’s Flock to Portage County?

Portage County has become a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts—and for good reason. Located in northeast Ohio between Akron and Youngstown, the county offers a wide range of natural attractions and recreational opportunities that continue to draw visitors year after year.

Many travelers are pleasantly surprised by the diversity of outdoor experiences available throughout the area.

A Destination for Outdoor Recreation

Portage County is home to three Ohio State Parks, each offering distinct amenities:

Wingfoot Lake State Park features a Nature Center, a floating bridge, Storybook Trail, fishing, kayaking, disc golf, and occasional views of the Goodyear Blimp.

West Branch State Park offers extensive water recreation on its 2,650-acre lake, along with hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and disc golf.

Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park is known for its dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and the newly constructed Glass Bridge overlooking the gorge. (Pictured above.)

The county also boasts the highest number of state-designated nature preserves in Ohio, including Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve and the Molnar Audubon Sanctuary. “The Cooperrider–Kent Bog State Nature Preserve protects the largest and southernmost stand of tamarack trees in the continental United States and surrounds the Bog, a remnant of the Wisconsin glaciation”—an ideal setting for quiet exploration.

Birdwatchers will find multiple migratory bird habitats throughout the county, such as at the J. Arthur Herrick Fen Nature Center. Bald eagles are frequently observed nesting near Wingfoot Lake State Park and can often be viewed from the Nature Center.

Hikers, walkers, and cyclists can enjoy the extensive trail network maintained by the Portage Park District. The county is also traversed by the Buckeye Trail, marked by distinctive blue blazes guiding hikers through scenic landscapes.

Easy Access and More to Explore

Portage County is conveniently accessible via the Ohio Turnpike (I-80) and I-76. In addition to its outdoor appeal, visitors enjoy seasonal festivals, farmers markets, local dining, nightlife, and charming Main Street shopping districts. Centrally located hotel accommodations make the county an ideal base for exploration.

Learn more about each location:

• Buckeye Trail: buckeyetrail.org
• Cooperrider–Kent Bog State Nature Preserve
  1028 Meloy Rd., Kent, OH | ohiodnr.gov
• Molnar Audubon Sanctuary
  786–876 N. Page Rd., Aurora | clevelandaudubon.org
• Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park
  S.R. 282, Nelson Township, OH | ohiodnr.gov
• Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve
  1230 Old Mill Rd., Aurora
• West Branch State Park
  5570 Esworthy Rd., Ravenna | ohiodnr.gov
• Wingfoot Lake State Park
  993 Goodyear Park Blvd. | ohiodnr.gov

PLAN YOUR GETAWAY

We hope you find time to visit our little slice of the outdoors. We are available to answer all your questions. To plan your next getaway or to view our online Visitor Guide, click here.

Sponsored content.
Central Portage County Visitors & Convention Bureau
800.764.876

Photo credits:
Central Portage County VCB
Glass Bridge – Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park
Rock Formations Nelson-Kennedy Ledges SP – Andrew Gacom Photography

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Enjoy 48 Hours in Portage County. To view fall itinerary click here.