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These Ohio Parks Will Have The Best Views Of The Total Solar Eclipse

With the total solar eclipse on April 8 quickly approaching, Ohio is buzzing with excitement.

The Buckeye State is gearing up to offer some of the best views of this celestial spectacle, and what better way to experience it than surrounded by nature? Nearly 30 of Ohio’s state parks are in or near the eclipse’s path of totality, making them prime spots for witnessing this awe-inspiring event.

“This total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Ohio,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “Our parks and wildlife areas will allow people to be surrounded by the state’s natural wonders as people take in the eclipse.”

READ MORE: Your Complete Guide To The 2024 Solar Eclipse

So, grab your eclipse glasses, pack a picnic, and let’s explore the best parks in Ohio for eclipse watching. Remember, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so plan early and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

eclipse map of ohio
via ODNR

Alum Creek State Park

Location: 3615 S Old State Rd, Delaware, OH 43015

Nestled in Central Ohio, Alum Creek State Park is a haven for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its large reservoir, this park offers stunning views of the sky and water, creating a perfect setting for eclipse viewing.

Buck Creek State Park

Location: 1901 Buck Creek Ln, Springfield, OH 45502

Buck Creek State Park features a picturesque landscape with its sprawling reservoir and meadows. It’s an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy the eclipse while having the option to explore trails or relax by the water.

Delaware State Park

Location: 5202 U.S. Highway 23 N, Delaware, OH 43015

Close to Alum Creek, Delaware State Park offers a serene natural setting with its own unique charm. It’s a great place to watch the eclipse amidst the beauty of lush forests and open waters.

East Harbor State Park

Location: 1169 N Buck Rd, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440

Situated on the shores of Lake Erie, East Harbor State Park provides a wide-open sky perfect for eclipse viewing. Its sandy beaches and marshy areas offer a diverse backdrop for nature enthusiasts.

Findley State Park

Location: 25381 State Route 58, Wellington, OH 44090

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Lorain County, Findley State Park is a wooded oasis. The dense canopy might offer unique opportunities to see how the eclipse affects the daylight in a forested environment.

Geneva State Park

Location: 4499 Padanarum Rd, Geneva, OH 44041

Another gem along Lake Erie, Geneva State Park boasts a marina, beach, and lodge. Its location offers expansive views, making it a picturesque spot to witness the eclipse.

Hueston Woods State Park

Location: 6301 Park Office Rd, College Corner, OH 45003

Hueston Woods State Park, with its ancient forests and tranquil lake, provides a peaceful setting for eclipse watchers. It’s a place where you can truly connect with nature as you gaze upwards.

John Bryan State Park

Location: 3790 State Route 370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

Known for its stunning limestone gorge, John Bryan State Park is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers. The open areas within the park will offer clear views of the eclipse.

Maumee Bay State Park

Location: 1400 State Park Rd, Oregon, OH 43616

With its unique blend of the great outdoors and resort amenities, Maumee Bay State Park offers a comfortable and scenic spot for enjoying the solar spectacle.

Mohican State Park

Location: 3116 State Route 3, Loudonville, OH 44842

Famous for its lush forests and scenic river, Mohican State Park is an adventurer’s paradise. The clearings in the park provide fantastic spots for eclipse viewing.

Grand Lake St. Marys State Park

Location: 834 Edgewater Dr, St Marys, OH 45885

As Ohio’s largest inland lake, Grand Lake St. Marys State Park offers wide, open skies perfect for eclipse watching. The expansive water mirrors the sky, doubling the spectacle.

Headlands Beach State Park

Location: 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, OH 44060

Boasting the longest natural beach in Ohio, Headlands Beach State Park is the place to be for breathtaking views of the eclipse over Lake Erie. Its sandy shores provide a relaxing atmosphere for sky gazers.

Indian Lake State Park

Location: 13156 State Route 235 N, Lakeview, OH 43331

With its meandering shoreline and clear waters, Indian Lake State Park offers a picturesque setting for eclipse enthusiasts. It’s a great spot for boating and picnicking as you await the big event.

Kiser Lake State Park

Location: 4889 N State Route 235, Conover, OH 45317

Nestled in the peaceful countryside, Kiser Lake State Park is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility and a clear view of the eclipse. Its reflective lake adds to the magic of the moment.

Lake Loramie State Park

Location: 4401 Fort Loramie Swanders Rd, Minster, OH 45865

With a history dating back to the construction of the Miami-Erie Canal, Lake Loramie State Park combines historical charm with natural beauty, offering a serene backdrop for eclipse watching.

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area

Location: 13229 W State Route 2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449

A paradise for bird watchers, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area provides a unique setting for the eclipse. The diverse habitats make it an interesting spot for nature observation during the event.

Mosquito Lake State Park

Location: 1439 State Route 305, Cortland, OH 44410

This park is known for its vast lake and lush surroundings, making Mosquito Lake State Park an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the eclipse in a vibrant, natural setting.

Mt. Gilead State Park

Location: 4119 State Route 95, Mt Gilead, OH 43338

A small but charming spot, Mt. Gilead State Park offers a quaint and intimate setting for viewing the eclipse. Its wooded areas and small lake provide a peaceful escape.

Portage Lakes State Park

Location: 5031 Manchester Rd, Akron, OH 44319

With multiple lakes and a diverse landscape, Portage Lakes State Park is a water lover’s dream and a fantastic location for those looking to experience the eclipse from a unique perspective.

Punderson State Park

Location: 11755 Kinsman Rd, Newbury Township, OH 44065

Featuring a stunning English Tudor-style manor and a natural lake, Punderson State Park mixes natural beauty with a touch of elegance, making it a picturesque spot for eclipse viewing.

Pymatuning State Park

Location: 6100 Pymatuning Lake Rd, Andover, OH 44003

Straddling the Ohio-Pennsylvania line, Pymatuning State Park is one of the largest state parks, offering vast skies and a large lake that sets the stage for a spectacular eclipse experience.

Sycamore State Park

Location: 4675 N Diamond Mill Rd, Trotwood, OH 45426

Sycamore State Park is a haven for those seeking a quiet spot to enjoy nature’s show. Its open meadows are perfect for laying out a blanket and watching the eclipse unfold.

West Branch State Park

Location: 5708 Esworthy Rd, Ravenna, OH 44266

Known for its large reservoir and lush woodlands, West Branch State Park offers a secluded and scenic setting for eclipse enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Wingfoot Lake State Park

Location: 993 Goodyear Park Blvd, Mogadore, OH 44260

One of the newer additions to Ohio’s state parks, Wingfoot Lake provides a peaceful setting with its gentle waters and green spaces, ideal for a family-friendly eclipse viewing experience.

READ MORE: Here’s How To Get Free Glasses For The Solar Eclipse

With such a diverse range of parks offering everything from sandy beaches and vast lakes to peaceful woodlands and historical sites, Ohio is truly a prime destination for experiencing the total solar eclipse.

Remember, due to the expected influx of visitors, it’s crucial to book your spot early via ReserveOhio.com and plan for an arrival on April 7 or earlier, departing on April 9 or later.

So, choose your park, mark your calendar, and get ready for an awe-inspiring celestial event amidst the natural beauty of Ohio. See you under the eclipse! For more info about the Solar Eclipse in Ohio, please click here.