🌤 Weather at Scioto Trail State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31–75 °F | 61–86 °F | 32–80 °F | 22–44 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Waverly, 8 mi away, elevation 572 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 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.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Lake White State Park (a short drive away) or Great Seal State Park (a short drive away).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Ohio state parks online at reserveohio.com.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Scioto Trail State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in Ohio state parks and in all state park campgrounds (maximum two pets per campsite) but must be leashed in public areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not to exceed 6 feet in length, in hand and under control
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- No pets allowed at swimming beaches; some parks have designated dog swim areas and dog parks
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pet-friendly cabins available at select parks (Buck Creek, Cowan, Dillon, Lake Hope, Mohican, Pike Lake, Pymatuning); maximum two pets per cabin; $10 added fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 added fee for pet-friendly cabins (charged whether pets come along or not); no pet fee for day use or camping
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Designated leash-free dog exercise areas exist at some parks; no bathing of pets in campground shower houses
Are dogs allowed at Scioto Trail State Park?
Pets are allowed in Ohio state parks and in all state park campgrounds (maximum two pets per campsite) but must be leashed in public areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via ohiodnr.gov. More: Ohio state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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