SOUTHWEST OHIO
West Elkton Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Hueston Woods State Park
NATURE & RECREATION | COLLEGE CORNER OH
Hueston Woods State Park offers 3,000 acres of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking trails, fishing, boating on Acton Lake, golfing, and camping. The park's nature center provides educational programs and displays about local wildlife and ecosystems. Visitors can also enjoy the park's beach area and rent boats during summer months.
2. Fort St. Clair State Memorial
HISTORIC SITE | EATON OH
Fort St. Clair State Memorial preserves the site of a frontier fort built in 1792. Visitors can explore the reconstructed blockhouse, walk interpretive trails, and learn about the fort's role in early Ohio history. The park also features picnic areas, a playground, and hosts historical reenactments and events throughout the year.
3. Garber Nature Center
NATURE EDUCATION | LEWISBURG OH
Garber Nature Center offers environmental education programs and hiking trails through diverse habitats. The center features interactive exhibits on local ecology, bird watching opportunities, and a butterfly garden. Visitors can explore the trails, attend naturalist-led programs, or enjoy the peaceful natural setting.
4. Devil's Backbone
SCENIC OVERLOOK | CAMDEN OH
Devil's Backbone provides a scenic overlook of the Seven Mile Creek valley. This natural landmark features unique rock formations and offers hiking trails with beautiful views. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, photography, and observing local wildlife in this picturesque setting.
5. Preble County Historical Society
MUSEUM | EATON OH
The Preble County Historical Society preserves and showcases the area's rich history. The museum complex includes restored historic buildings, exhibits on local culture and industry, and beautiful grounds. Visitors can tour the buildings, attend educational programs, and explore the nature trails on the property.
6. Black Walnut Festival
ANNUAL EVENT | CAMDEN OH
The Black Walnut Festival is Camden's annual celebration held each October. This community event features a parade, carnival rides, food vendors, craft booths, and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy traditional festival activities while experiencing the local culture and hospitality of this small Ohio town.
7. Preble County Pork Festival
FOOD FESTIVAL | EATON OH
The Preble County Pork Festival is a popular annual event celebrating the area's agricultural heritage. Held in September, the festival features pork-themed foods, cooking demonstrations, a parade, live music, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can sample local specialties and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
8. Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery
WINERY | NEW PARIS OH
Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery offers wine tastings in a renovated 1890s schoolhouse. Visitors can sample locally produced wines, enjoy live music events, and relax on the outdoor patio. The winery also hosts special events and offers a unique glimpse into the area's growing wine industry.
9. Preble County Fairgrounds
EVENT VENUE | EATON OH
The Preble County Fairgrounds hosts various events throughout the year, including the annual county fair. Visitors can attend livestock shows, tractor pulls, demolition derbies, and other entertainment. The fairgrounds also feature exhibit halls, a grandstand, and facilities for community gatherings.
10. Lewisburg Community Park
RECREATION AREA | LEWISBURG OH
Lewisburg Community Park offers family-friendly recreation facilities. The park features playground equipment, sports fields, a walking trail, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, community events, and a peaceful green space in the heart of Lewisburg.
West Elkton Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN WEST ELKTON
West Elkton, Ohio, is a small village nestled in the heart of Preble County, known for its quaint rural charm and close-knit community. Founded in 1806, this historic settlement has preserved its small-town atmosphere while serving as a gateway to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of southwest Ohio.
While West Elkton itself may be small, it is surrounded by a wealth of attractions that draw visitors to the area. The nearby Hueston Woods State Park is a major draw, offering over 3,000 acres of outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, and boating on Acton Lake. Nature enthusiasts also flock to the Garber Nature Center in nearby Lewisburg, where they can explore diverse habitats and learn about local ecology.
History buffs find plenty to explore in the region, with sites like Fort St. Clair State Memorial in Eaton providing a glimpse into Ohio's frontier past. The Preble County Historical Society offers further insights into the area's rich heritage through its museum complex and restored historic buildings.
Throughout the year, West Elkton and its neighboring communities come alive with festivals and events that showcase the region's culture and agricultural roots. The Black Walnut Festival in Camden and the Preble County Pork Festival in Eaton are popular annual celebrations that attract visitors from across the state, offering a taste of local flavors and traditions.