SOUTHEAST OHIO
Brookside Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Barkcamp State Park
SCENIC HIKING TRAILS | BELMONT OH
Barkcamp State Park offers scenic hiking trails through woodsy terrain. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, wildlife viewing, and picturesque lake views. The park also features bridle trails for horseback riding, with a 24-mile trail meandering along the entire lakeshore for a pleasant day's ride.
2. Belmont County Heritage Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS | ST. CLAIRSVILLE OH
The Belmont County Heritage Museum, housed in an 1880s former Sheriff's Residence, showcases artifacts and pictures telling the history of communities throughout Belmont County. Visitors can explore exhibits on local history, including glassware, community artifacts, and Underground Railroad information.
3. Great Stone Viaduct
HISTORIC RAILROAD BRIDGE | BELLAIRE OH
The Great Stone Viaduct in Bellaire is a historic railroad bridge completed in 1871. This iconic structure, featured in the 2010 film "Unstoppable," is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Great Stone Viaduct Historical Education Society is working to construct walkways and observation posts on abandoned portions.
4. Captina Creek Birding Trail
BIRDWATCHING TOUR | BELMONT COUNTY OH
The Captina Creek Birding Trail is a self-guided driving tour with signage at five stops within the Captina Creek Watershed. Birdwatchers can explore diverse habitats and spot various bird species. The trail also includes an Aquatic Trail, offering opportunities to observe aquatic wildlife.
5. Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum
HISTORIC HOME TOURS | BARNESVILLE OH
The Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum, built in 1890, features 26 rooms with intricate design details. Visitors can explore unique architectural elements like the courting nook, cast iron fireplace inserts, and double gas/electric lights. The museum offers a glimpse into 19th-century upper-class life.
6. Dysart Woods
OLD GROWTH FOREST | BELMONT OH
Dysart Woods is the largest remaining tract of old growth forest in Southeastern Ohio. Hikers can choose between one or two-mile trails through towering oaks over 400 years old. As part of the Captina Creek Birding Trail, it's an excellent destination for birdwatching and nature observation.
7. National Road Bikeway
SCENIC CYCLING ROUTE | ST. CLAIRSVILLE OH
The National Road Bikeway in St. Clairsville offers cyclists a scenic route through Belmont County. This paved trail follows the historic National Road, providing a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Riders can enjoy leisurely rides or more challenging routes along this well-maintained bikeway.
8. Underground Railroad Museum
ABOLITIONIST HISTORY | FLUSHING OH
The Underground Railroad Museum in Flushing preserves the history of the abolitionist movement in Belmont County. Visitors can learn about the 120 miles of Underground Railroad routes in the area and the role of local Quakers in helping enslaved people escape to freedom.
9. Zion Retreat & RV Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION | FLUSHING OH
Zion Retreat & RV Park in Flushing offers a family-friendly oasis on 1,300 acres. Visitors can enjoy nature trails, a swimming beach with water activities, fishing, picnicking, and various outdoor games. The park provides RV sites and cabin rentals for those looking to stay overnight.
10. Ohio River Scenic Byway
SCENIC DRIVE | BELMONT COUNTY OH
The Ohio River Scenic Byway follows State Route 7 through historic cities and towns in Belmont County, including Martins Ferry, Bridgeport, Bellaire, Shadyside, and Powhatan Point. This scenic drive offers beautiful views of the Ohio River and opportunities to explore riverside communities and attractions.
Brookside Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN BROOKSIDE
Brookside, a charming village in Belmont County, Ohio, offers visitors a peaceful retreat with scenic views along the Ohio River. While small in size, Brookside serves as an excellent base for exploring the rich history and natural beauty of the surrounding area. The village's rustic charm and community-oriented atmosphere provide a glimpse into small-town life in southeastern Ohio.
Visitors to Brookside can enjoy nearby attractions such as Barkcamp State Park, known for its hiking trails and horseback riding opportunities. The Captina Creek Birding Trail, which runs through parts of Belmont County, offers excellent birdwatching experiences. History enthusiasts can explore the region's past at the Belmont County Heritage Museum in nearby St. Clairsville or visit the Underground Railroad Museum in Flushing to learn about the area's role in the abolitionist movement.
For those seeking scenic drives, the Ohio River Scenic Byway passes through several historic towns in Belmont County, offering beautiful views and opportunities to explore riverside communities. Outdoor enthusiasts can also take advantage of the National Road Bikeway for cycling or visit Zion Retreat & RV Park for a range of recreational activities.
While Brookside itself may be small, its location in Belmont County provides easy access to a variety of attractions, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the natural beauty, history, and charm of southeastern Ohio.