🌤 Weather at Sycamore State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31–75 °F | 62–87 °F | 33–79 °F | 20–41 °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 Dayton Mcd, 10 mi away, elevation 720 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Sycamore State Park is one of the most beautiful state parks in Ohio.
Situated in the southwest region of the state, just a 20 minute drive from Dayton, the park is an oasis of woods amid expansive farmland, named for the huge sycamore trees that line the banks of Wolf Creek. This makes it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful escape from the pressures of city life.
The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, paddling, fishing, picnicking and archery while they are there.
As you would expect, given how close it is to the city, many people come to Sycamore on a day trip. However, for those who want to stay for a couple of days or more, there is a modern campground available onsite.
All up, it offers 80 sites that have hookups for water and electricity, as well as a splendid range of amenities that will ensure you have a very comfortable stay.
Activities
Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor recreational activities at Sycamore State Park.
Showcased below is a quick summary of some of the most prominent leisure activities you can engage in while you are there.
Archery at Sycamore State Park
An archery range with targets at 10 to 50 yards is open to the public along Diamond Mill Road, north of Providence Road. Bring your own equipment; the range rules are posted on site.
Fishing at Sycamore State Park
The park’s ponds give good catches of largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish, and an accessible youth-only pond is set aside for young anglers. Wolf Creek offers stream fishing for smallmouth bass.
Ohio fishing regulations apply, and anglers 16 and older need a valid Ohio fishing license.
Hiking at Sycamore State Park
For those who enjoy hiking, Sycamore State Park offers visitors an opportunity to explore the park’s lush vegetation and wildlife through its well-maintained trails. Overall there are about 8 miles of hiking trails through the Wolf Creek Valley, woodlots and meadows, led by the 2.7-mile Ghost Hedge Nature Trail and the 1.5-mile Beech Ridge Trail. Riders have 18 miles of bridle trail.
Along the trails, hikers can enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery, including wildflowers, towering trees, and wildlife like deer, rabbits, and songbirds. The park also has several benches along the trails where hikers can rest and enjoy the scenic views.
Visitors planning to hike at Sycamore State Park should dress appropriately for the weather and terrain and bring plenty of water and snacks. Additionally, visitors should stay on the marked trails and observe park regulations, including no littering or removing plants or wildlife from the park.
Picnicking at Sycamore State Park
The park offers picnic areas and picnic shelters, and one large shelterhouse can be reserved online. It holds up to 75 people, has a charcoal grill and pit restrooms, sits near a playground, and pets are permitted.
Birding at Sycamore State Park
Sycamore State Park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.
The park’s wooded areas and wetlands provide a habitat for a diverse range of bird species, including woodpeckers, songbirds, and waterfowl.
Visitors can bring their binoculars and explore the park’s trails and wetlands to spot some of the park’s feathered residents.
Pets
Sycamore State Park is a pet-friendly park, and visitors are welcome to bring their dogs as long as they are on a leash.
Pets are also permitted at the reservable day-use shelterhouse.
In addition, guests are also required to clean up after their pets and dispose of waste properly.
Camping
Camping at Sycamore is geared to groups and riders, and all camping is by reservation only.
Group Camp A has a large barn with electric hookups, a wood-burning stove, a refrigerator and a cooking stove, plus grills and latrines. It holds 100 people and is accessible for visitors of all abilities. Group Camp B has an open shelter with electric service, a restroom, a fire ring and picnic tables for up to 40 people. Both group camps can be reserved online from March 1 to December 1.
The equestrian camp offers non-electric sites with latrines, water and tie-ups. From November 1 to December 31 there is no water, and portable toilets are provided.
Park Location
Sycamore State Park
4675 Diamond Mill Rd
Dayton, OH 45426
Phone: 937.854.4452
Map
Video
Here is a video showcasing several of the trails at Sycamore State Park:
Explore More Ohio State Parks
Sycamore State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Ohio. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Ohio guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbor is Little Miami State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Sycamore 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 Sycamore 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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