Rocky Fork State Park

Boasting a shimmering 2080-acre lake and over 31 miles of stunning shoreline, Rocky Fork State Park is a delightful public recreational space to visit.

Situated just over an hour’s drive from Cincinnati and Columbus, this park is a popular destination for boating, fishing, hiking, birding and picnicking. Attracting outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and families, from all over the state to its beautiful and tranquil setting.

To support these activities, this Ohio state park has swimming beaches, marinas, boat ramps, woodlands and a nature center. It also has an excellent campground too, with over 100 tent and RV sites available to those who want to take their time to immerse themselves in nature.

Activities

Visitors to the park have a wide range of recreational outdoor activities available to them.

Presented below is a brief overview of some of the main leisure pursuits you can enjoy at Rocky Fork State Park.

Boating at Rocky Fork State Park

One of the most popular activities at Rocky Fork State Park is boating.

The park’s 2,080-acre lake is perfect for all types of watercraft, including kayaks, canoes, sailboats, and powerboats. Around it, there are also several boat ramps which enable boaters to easily get in the water.

If you don’t have your own vessel, you can rent paddle boats, pontoon boats and fishing boats from the park’s marina.

While there, you will also find boat storage, and a bait and tackle shop, as well as other supplies and items that will enable you to have a fun day out on the water.

Fishing at Rocky Fork State Park

Rocky Fork Lake is a noted fishing destination which attracts anglers from all over Ohio.

The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and saugeye. Around the lake there are several fishing areas, including a fishing pier and a fish cleaning station.

Visitors can fish from the shore, a boat, or a kayak. As the lake has a number of no-wake zones, you should have no problem finding a peaceful and enjoyable place to drop a line.

Hiking at Rocky Fork State Park

Rocky Fork State Park has several hiking trails that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s beautiful natural scenery.

These trails range in difficulty and length, from easy and short to moderate and longer. They all showcase something unique.

Here are some of the most popular trails at Rocky Fork State Park:

• Pioneer Trail – Length: 1.8 miles. Degree of Difficulty: easy
• Northridge Trail – Length: 2.6 miles. Degree of Difficulty: moderate
• Rocky Fork Lake Trail – Length: 5.5 miles. Degree of Difficulty: challenging

Picnicking at Rocky Fork State Park

Rocky Fork State Park has several picnic areas that offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy a meal while taking in the park’s natural beauty.

The picnic areas have tables, grills, and restroom facilities and are open year-round.

The park’s main picnic area is located near the beach and marina and features several large pavilions that can be reserved for group events.

Birding at Rocky Fork State Park

Rocky Fork State Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 150 bird species, including both resident and migratory birds, residing within it.

The best times for birdwatching in Rocky Fork State Park are during the spring and fall migration periods, when a wide variety of birds can be seen passing through the park.

Some of the most common bird species that can be spotted include Eastern Bluebirds, American Goldfinches, Woodpeckers, Northern Cardinals, and Great Blue Herons.

One of the best places to birdwatch in the park is along the hiking trails, where visitors can observe birds in their natural habitats. The park’s wooded areas, wetlands, and shoreline also provide a diverse range of habitats for birds, which make for great birdwatching locations.

Pets

Rocky Fork State Park is a pet-friendly destination, allowing visitors to bring their furry friends to enjoy the natural surroundings of the park. However, pets must always be kept on a leash and are not allowed in certain areas of the park.

When visiting Rocky Fork State Park with a pet, it is important to bring all necessary supplies, including a leash, waste bags, and water and food dishes. Guests should also be prepared to clean up after their pets, as the park is committed to maintaining a clean and safe environment for all visitors.

Pet owners should be mindful of the park’s rules and regulations when visiting with their pets. This involves them not being allowed on the swimming beaches or in the designated swimming areas of the park.

Unless they are service animals, they are also not permitted in the shower houses or other park buildings.

Camping

Whether you prefer the comfort of an RV or the rustic charm of a tent, Rocky Fork State Park has something to offer most camping enthusiasts.

Overall, the park has more than 100 campsites available for overnight stays, with options for both electric and non-electric sites. RV sites are available for visitors with larger vehicles, while tent sites are perfect for those looking to experience the great outdoors up close.

In addition to traditional campsites, Rocky Fork State Park also offers two deluxe camping cabins. These cabins come fully furnished with amenities such as air conditioning, heat, a kitchenette, and a private bathroom, making them an ideal option for those looking for a more comfortable camping experience.

Campers at Rocky Fork State Park have access to a range of amenities, including shower houses, restrooms, and laundry facilities. The park also offers fire rings and picnic tables at each campsite, allowing visitors to enjoy a cozy campfire and outdoor meals.

Park Location

Rocky Fork State Park
9800 N Shore Drive
Hillsboro, OH 45133
Phone: 937.393.4284

Park Website
Reservation

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Rocky Fork State Park: