SOUTHEAST OHIO
Rarden Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Brush Creek State Forest
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE | RARDEN OHIO
Brush Creek State Forest offers a vast expanse of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Spanning 13,500 acres, this forest features hiking trails, hunting areas, and scenic drives. Visitors can enjoy activities such as camping, fishing, and wildlife watching amidst the diverse hardwood forest and rolling hills.
2. Rarden Whitetail Deer Festival
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION | RARDEN OH
The Rarden Whitetail Deer Festival is an annual event celebrating the area's rich hunting heritage. Held in September, this festival features a parade, food vendors, live music, and various competitions. Attendees can enjoy activities like archery contests, deer calling competitions, and displays of trophy bucks.
3. 1st Stop Convenience Store
LOCAL ESSENTIALS & FUEL | RARDEN OH
1st Stop Convenience Store serves as a vital hub for Rarden residents and visitors. This local establishment offers fuel, groceries, and essential supplies. It's a convenient stop for travelers exploring the area, providing snacks, drinks, and basic necessities for outdoor adventures in the surrounding forests.
4. Camp Creek
SCENIC WATERWAY & RECREATION | RARDEN OH
Camp Creek offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts in Rarden. This scenic waterway provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and nature photography. The creek's peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for picnicking or simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of rural Ohio.
5. Shawnee State Forest
LITTLE SMOKIES OF OHIO | WEST PORTSMOUTH OH
Shawnee State Forest, known as the "Little Smokies of Ohio," encompasses over 63,000 acres of stunning wilderness. This expansive forest offers miles of hiking and bridle trails, camping facilities, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore rugged hills, deep valleys, and diverse ecosystems while enjoying activities like hunting and bird watching.
6. Portsmouth Floodwall Murals
HISTORIC OUTDOOR ART | PORTSMOUTH OH
The Portsmouth Floodwall Murals showcase the city's rich history through stunning outdoor artwork. Spanning 2,000 feet along the Ohio River, these murals depict significant events and people from Portsmouth's past. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to admire the detailed paintings and learn about the area's heritage.
7. Southern Ohio Museum
ART & CULTURAL CENTER | PORTSMOUTH OH
The Southern Ohio Museum in Portsmouth showcases a diverse collection of art and historical artifacts. Featuring rotating exhibits of contemporary art, regional history displays, and educational programs, the museum offers visitors a cultural experience. Its permanent collection includes works by local artists and pieces reflecting the area's rich heritage.
8. Scioto County Welcome Center
VISITOR INFORMATION HUB | PORTSMOUTH OH
The Scioto County Welcome Center serves as an essential resource for visitors exploring the region. Located in Portsmouth, this center provides maps, brochures, and local insights about attractions and events in Scioto County. Friendly staff offer recommendations and assistance to help travelers make the most of their visit.
9. Serpent Mound
ANCIENT EFFIGY MOUND | PEEBLES OH
Serpent Mound, located in nearby Adams County, is an ancient effigy mound of international significance. This 1,348-foot-long earthwork in the shape of a serpent is the largest serpent effigy in the world. Visitors can explore the museum, walk the perimeter trail, and learn about the mysterious prehistoric cultures that created this remarkable site.
10. Portsmouth Raceway Park
DIRT TRACK RACING | WEST PORTSMOUTH OH
Portsmouth Raceway Park offers high-octane entertainment for motorsports enthusiasts. This 3/8-mile dirt track hosts thrilling races featuring late models, modifieds, and other classes of cars. Spectators can enjoy the excitement of local and regional racing events, complete with concessions and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Rarden Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN RARDEN
Rarden, Ohio, is a small village nestled in the heart of Scioto County, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The community is surrounded by vast forests and scenic landscapes, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and hunters. Brush Creek State Forest, located in Rarden, is one of the area's most prominent attractions, offering visitors a chance to explore its expansive wilderness.
The village takes pride in its annual Rarden Whitetail Deer Festival, a celebration that showcases the area's rich hunting heritage and brings the community together. This event features various activities, including archery contests, deer calling competitions, and displays of trophy bucks, attracting visitors from across the region.
While Rarden itself is a small community, its proximity to larger towns and natural attractions in Scioto County makes it an ideal base for exploring the area. Nearby attractions include the expansive Shawnee State Forest, often referred to as the "Little Smokies of Ohio," and the historic city of Portsmouth with its famous Floodwall Murals and Southern Ohio Museum.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, Rarden provides easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas. The surrounding forests and waterways, such as Camp Creek, offer ample opportunities for activities like bird watching, photography, and simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of rural Ohio. Rarden's charm lies in its small-town atmosphere and the natural wonders that surround it, making it a hidden gem for those looking to experience the authentic beauty of Southeast Ohio.