Originally Ohio’s first state park at the turn of the 20th century, Alum Creek State Park is a popular destination for natives of Akron as well as visitors from Cleveland and Columbus.
Attractions and Things to Do at Alum Creek State Park
Alum Creek State Park offers year-round recreational opportunities. Activities include camping, hunting, hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, snowmobiling and horseback riding, fishing and ice fishing, boating, and ice boating & swimming.
Boating
Boats are an important part of any water-based activity. There are many types of boats, with unlimited horsepower.
Many people enjoy fishing from the shore, but boats are also beneficial for those who would like to go a bit further from the shore. The lake in question has five boat ramps which vary in size and type.
Camping
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the campground. There are showers, restrooms, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, and playgrounds.
The campground also features cabins and primitive campsites for those who enjoy more privacy.
There are a total of 286 camping sites in the campground.
Beach
Alum Creek State Park has a 3,000-foot inland beach, which is the largest in Ohio. The beach house and volleyball courts are included with the amenities. The lake is open to ice fishing during the winter months too.
Fishing & Hunting
The fish found in this lake include two types of fishing game: largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, sunfish, channel catfish, saugeye, and muskellunge.
Ohio stocks saugeyes and muskies where they are available to be caught by its citizens. Fishing tournaments are also held throughout the year.
Common animals to hunt at the park include white-tailed deer, squirrels, and raccoons.
Do You Need Hiking Boots For Alum Creek State Park?
Alum Creek State Park is a great place to visit but it requires some extra gear if you want to enjoy the full experience. You’ll need hiking boots and a rain jacket, along with a backpack.
Many hikers are asking themselves, “will I need hiking boots for Alum Creek State Park?” The answer is that you will likely be hiking through mud, which can be easy to get stuck in. If you’re worried about your feet getting wet and cold, then yes, you will need hiking boots.
How Many Trails Are at Alum Creek State Park?
There are 38 miles of bridle trails in the park, 7 miles of hiking trails, and 14 miles of mountain biking trails.
In total there are 15 hiking trails at the park. Taking a hike is a great way to get outside and get some fresh air. There are many different types of trails at the park that can make for a good day hike.
Some people like to go on long, challenging hikes while others enjoy shorter, less strenuous hikes. The park has different trails that are suitable for every skill level.
What Is the Easiest Trail in Alum Creek State Park?
The easiest trail in Alum Creek State Park in our opinion is the White Tail Run Trail. If you’re looking for a short hike to get a great view, then this trail should be on your list.
White Tail Run Trail is a hiking trail near Lewis Center, Ohio. It is 0.8 miles long and lightly trafficked with a beautiful view of Lake Russell.
The Trail is a great place to go walking in the woods, or just to escape! The trails are open year-round, so it’s accessible and usable any time you’d like. If you’re bringing your dog, just make sure it’s on a leash at all times.
The Best Trails at Alum Creek State Park
The park is in the center of Akron and offers hiking trails, nature walks, and bike trails. It also has picnic areas, fishing ponds, a covered shelter with grills, and a large group area.
There are plenty of trails to choose from, depending on your level of skill and experience.
Rocks And Roots North Loop
Distance: 6.7 miles
A hike with lots of amazing sights was the perfect way to spend a day! There were deer, some squirrels, and finally a bird for good luck on our journey.
Please be aware, this trail runs right next to the dog park near the end. So if you’re hiking with a dog, it could be reactive or fearful at first. We found many great places for our dog to take a swim and will come back during the summer to use them.
Be sure to wear boots/shoes that are suitable for tough outdoor excursions, as the trail is quite muddy. Overall, me and our group had a great time on the hike!
Rocks and Roots South Loop
Distance: 6.6 miles
There’s amazing scenery, migratory birds, and a few water crossings without bridges. Trekking poles can help with these crossings and fallen trees along the trail do happen from time to time.
Sometimes you might encounter rough terrain. Bridges were also quite worn away in some spots. The elevation change is still important to consider, but you don’t need to worry too much
Be careful when navigating if you’re using your app, I went in a direction that made me get lost. I think the scenery is very pretty over there!
Winterhawk Bridle Trail
Distance: 11.2 miles
A beautiful wooded trail with overlooks of the lake, small stream crossings, wildflowers, osprey, and bald eagle sightings. It can get a little rough and wet in spring if you’re wearing sneakers but it’s worth it!
This is not the best hike for kids. It has a significant elevation change and can be very muddy & bug-infested. Be prepared if you’re expecting to go on this hike with your little ones.
There are ample parking and restrooms available near the boat ramp, and various side trails to add mileage & increase your hike time.
Can You Swim at Alum Creek State Park?
Yes, you can swim at Alum Creek State Park. It is pretty easy to find a spot to swim and spend the day. However, it is important to keep in mind that the water is cold year-round.
Alum Creek State Park is a popular swimming spot in Ohio, but not everyone can swim here. The water is too cold and the conditions are unknown.
Are there bears at Alum Creek State Park?
Bears are not often spotted at Alum Creek State Park, but there are bears in the area. The state’s Game Commission says that it is impossible to know how many bears are in the area because they can be anywhere.
Bears can eat a variety of foods such as berries, nuts, roots, and insects and are most active in the summertime when food is plentiful.
Is Alum Creek State Park Dog Friendly?
Alum Creek State Park is not only a great place for those who have time constraints on hikes- which are often too long for enthusiastic dogs- it is also dog friendly! So if you’re looking for a new destination in Ohio, then Alum Creek State Park is an ideal option.
Alum Creek State Park only has one restroom that can accommodate people and dogs, but there are many places nearby at which they can go. There’s also a water fountain in the parking lot so they can stay hydrated while exploring the natural beauty of Ohio’s state parks
Does Alum Creek State Park Have Cabins?
Alum Creek State Park has a variety of overnight accommodations.
Some cabins can be rented by the night or by the week. There are also other options including tent camping, a primitive camping area, and RV camping sites.
What Does Alum Creek State Park Cost to Enter?
Alum Creek State Park is a popular place in Ohio. This state park offers recreation and nature activities for people of all ages.
Ohio does not charge entrance fees to state parks. The park and beach are free to enter.
What is the Best Time of Year to Hike at Alum Creek State Park?
The best time to hike at Alum Creek State Park is from May – September. This is because the weather during these months is usually mild and dry.
The park also has a visitor center where visitors can learn about the history and geology of the area as well as get information on places nearby that offer activities such as rafting, canoeing, kayaking, or fishing.
