Scioto Trail State Park
🏆 Official Guide: Scioto Trail State Park — In the Appalachian foothills of Ross County, Ohio south of Chillicothe — featuring 2 lakes (Caldwell Lake + Stewart Lake), a family campground with electric sites, primitive hike-in camping at Stewart Lake, fishing for bluegill, bass, catfish + trout, seasonal kayak/canoe/paddleboat rentals, multiple hiking trails, the adjacent Scioto Trail State Forest with 26 miles of multi-use trails (hiking, horseback, mountain biking) + the Buckeye Trail, hunting in the state forest, and scenic Scioto River Valley vistas.
Scioto Trail State Park is an Appalachian foothills gem south of Chillicothe — two peaceful lakes nestled among forested ridges, with an adjacent 9,400-acre state forest that dramatically expands the recreation opportunities. Whether you’re fishing from the bank at Caldwell Lake, backpacking to a primitive campsite at Stewart Lake, or riding horseback through 26 miles of forest trails, Scioto Trail delivers authentic Ohio Appalachian outdoor experiences.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Ross County, OH — south of Chillicothe |
| Lakes | Caldwell Lake + Stewart Lake |
| Adjacent Forest | Scioto Trail State Forest — 26 mi multi-use trails |
| Long-Distance Trail | Buckeye Trail passes through |
| Hunting | State Forest only — NOT in park |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Camping | Family CG (electric) at Caldwell + primitive hike-in at Stewart |
| Fishing | Bluegill, bass, catfish, trout — both lakes |
| Boating | Caldwell: electric motors + hand-powered — seasonal rentals |
| Hiking | Park trails + 26 mi State Forest multi-use |
| Horseback Riding | State Forest — 26 mi designated bridle trails |
| Mountain Biking | State Forest multi-use trails |
| Hunting | State Forest — deer, turkey, squirrel, grouse |
| Scenic Vistas | Scioto River Valley overlooks from ridgetops |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the State Park and State Forest?
Scioto Trail State Park (centered around Caldwell and Stewart Lakes) offers camping, fishing, and boating. The adjacent Scioto Trail State Forest (9,400+ acres) provides 26 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and hunting. Hunting is NOT permitted in the state park, only in the state forest.
Are gas-powered boats allowed?
No — Caldwell Lake allows only hand-powered vessels and electric motors. Stewart Lake is more primitive with no boat launch. Seasonal paddle boat, canoe, and kayak rentals are typically available near the campground.
Park Location
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