SOUTHEAST OHIO
McArthur Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Lake Hope State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE | MCARTHUR OHIO
Lake Hope State Park offers a serene escape in the heart of Vinton County. This 2,983-acre park features a 120-acre lake perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can explore miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, enjoy scenic picnic areas, or stay overnight in cozy cabins and campgrounds.
2. Hope Furnace Ruins
HISTORIC IRON FURNACE | MCARTHUR OH
Hope Furnace Ruins, located within Lake Hope State Park, is a captivating remnant of Ohio's iron-producing past. Built in 1854, this well-preserved stone structure once produced pig iron. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, read interpretive signs, and imagine the bustling industrial activity that once took place here.
3. Moonville Tunnel
HAUNTED RAILWAY TUNNEL | MCARTHUR OH
Moonville Tunnel, a mysterious abandoned railway tunnel, attracts history buffs and ghost hunters alike. Built in 1856, this eerie structure is steeped in local lore and ghostly tales. Visitors can walk through the tunnel, explore the surrounding trails, and perhaps encounter the legendary Moonville ghost.
4. Vinton County Park District
NATURE PRESERVES & TRAILS | MCARTHUR OH
The Vinton County Park District manages several beautiful nature preserves and trails in the area. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, observe local wildlife, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. The district's properties offer a chance to experience the natural beauty of southeastern Ohio.
5. Treebeard's Retreat
UNIQUE TREEHOUSE LODGING | MCARTHUR OH
Treebeard's Retreat offers a one-of-a-kind lodging experience in McArthur. This charming treehouse accommodation provides a cozy and rustic getaway surrounded by nature. Guests can enjoy the peaceful forest setting, relax on the deck, and create unforgettable memories in this unique woodland retreat.
6. Shea-Williams Nature Preserve
SCENIC HIKING TRAILS | MCARTHUR OH
Shea-Williams Nature Preserve is a hidden gem in Vinton County, offering scenic hiking trails and diverse wildlife habitats. This 130-acre preserve features beautiful woodlands, streams, and rock formations. Visitors can explore the trails, observe native plants and animals, and enjoy the tranquility of this unspoiled natural area.
7. McArthur Brick Co. Historic Preserve
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SITE | MCARTHUR OH
The McArthur Brick Co. Historic Preserve showcases the area's industrial heritage. This former brick manufacturing site now serves as an educational outdoor museum. Visitors can explore the remnants of the brick-making facilities, learn about the process, and gain insights into the region's economic history.
8. Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER | MCARTHUR OH
Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library serves as a vital community hub in McArthur. This modern facility offers a wide range of books, digital resources, and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can enjoy quiet reading areas, access computers and internet services, or participate in various community events and activities.
9. Lake Alma State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA | WELLSTON OH
Lake Alma State Park, located near McArthur in Wellston, offers a variety of outdoor activities. The 60-acre lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beach. The park's scenic beauty and recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
10. Ohio Pawpaw Festival
ANNUAL FRUIT CELEBRATION | ALBANY OH
The Ohio Pawpaw Festival is an annual event celebrating North America's largest native fruit. Held in nearby Albany, this unique festival features pawpaw tastings, cooking demonstrations, live music, and educational workshops. Visitors can enjoy local food, craft vendors, and learn about the cultural and ecological significance of the pawpaw.
McArthur Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN MCARTHUR
McArthur, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Vinton County, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This charming small town is best known for its proximity to Lake Hope State Park, a sprawling natural wonderland that offers a myriad of recreational activities. The park's centerpiece, Lake Hope, provides excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, while miles of hiking and mountain biking trails wind through the lush forests.
One of McArthur's most popular attractions is the Hope Furnace Ruins, located within Lake Hope State Park. This well-preserved remnant of Ohio's iron-producing past offers visitors a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage. The ruins, along with interpretive signs, tell the story of the region's once-thriving iron industry and its impact on local communities.
For those seeking a touch of mystery, the nearby Moonville Tunnel is a must-visit destination. This abandoned railway tunnel, steeped in local lore and ghostly tales, attracts curious visitors from far and wide. The eerie atmosphere and surrounding trails make it a popular spot for both history enthusiasts and paranormal investigators.
McArthur also serves as a gateway to the broader Vinton County area, which boasts numerous nature preserves, hiking trails, and scenic drives. The region's natural beauty, combined with its rich history and unique attractions like the annual Ohio Pawpaw Festival, make McArthur an ideal destination for those looking to explore the lesser-known wonders of southeastern Ohio.