Explore Portage County’s Green Side

Fill the picnic basket! Pack the sunscreen! Grab the family. It’s time to enjoy an outdoor family field trip!

We all have spent just a little too much time in our homes. With the warmer weather upon us, now is a fabulous time to plan a getaway that includes exploring, hiking, kayaking, birding, and even fishing. With three State parks and plenty of area rivers and lakes, Portage County is the perfect location for your family to stretch their legs and spread their wings.

Wingfoot Lake State Park offers paved walkways, mature trees, migratory waterfowl, small mammals and even sometimes even views of the Goodyear Blimp as its hanger is located just on the other side of the lake. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic or try your hand at fishing. 

West Branch State Park boasts 14 miles of hiking trails and a large 2,650-acre lake, that welcomes boaters, fisherman and swimmers every year. If you enjoy camping, the park offers over 150 sites. If camping is not your family’s way of “roughing it”, affordable hotels can be found at Exit 33, off I-76. 

A Portage County adventure would not be complete without exploring the rugged cliffs of Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park. The park features four unique hiking trails that lead you past the Devil’s Icebox, Old Maid’s Kitchen and Indian Pass rock formations. The trails range from easy to difficult. You are going to want to wear your hiking shoes for this park. Bring along a picnic to enjoy after your day of exploring. 

Speaking of picnics, you may want to bring an extra cooler. Portage County is home to Duma’s Meat Market. A 4th generation meat market which has been supplying the area with a selection of fresh meats, including bison, beef, pork, chicken and more. During the growing season you will find fresh vegetables and fruits at local farms and farmers markets. Local maple syrup can be found at the Goodell Family Farm, and delicious apples can be found at Beckwith’s Orchard. Don’t forget to plan a stop at Brimfield Bread Oven for one of its delicious fire-oven-baked breads.

Kayakers and canoe enthusiasts can rejoice. Not only can you enjoy a paddle at one of our local state park lakes, you can also take a trip on the Cuyahoga River with Breakaway Excursions. Beginners are welcome. 

If you prefer two wheels and dry land, then the Portage Hike & Bike Trail is what you are looking for. The trail serves as a key link between other major trail systems, allowing for short and long trail rides. 

This year, gather your friends and family and come experience what all the locals already know: Portage County is a great place to explore the outdoors. We also have a fun festival season. 

To order a free Visitor Guide, visit CentralPortageVCB.org or call 800-764-8768.