COLUMBUS, Ohio – Get ready for those gorgeous yellows, oranges, and red hues as fall colors become more prominent across tree canopies in the Buckeye State. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) encourages everyone to enjoy autumn’s fireworks of color by taking a hike, enjoying a picnic, or fishing for native Ohio species.
“The colors of the autumn season are now evident across the state with ‘near peak’ and ‘peak’ conditions statewide,” said ODNR Fall Color Forester David Parrott. “The next few weeks should be the best time for fall color viewing of the season!”
Photo: ODNR
One place to check out the changing leaves is Buck Creek State Park, which features a large reservoir for unlimited horsepower boating. An accessible pier offers options for anglers of all abilities. Hikers and horseback riders will find miles of multi-use trails passing through meadows and wetlands. The park's overnight accommodations include family vacation cabins and a modern campground.
Visitors can also check out the new marina and nature center at Buck Creek! Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and ODNR Director Mertz cut the ribbon last Friday on the full-service marina store, which offers bait, tackle, and fuel, alongside expanded amenities such as hand-dipped ice cream and park souvenirs. The building also has a new nature center that provides hands-on opportunities to learn about the park’s natural history and recreational offerings.
The new building boasts comfortable, modern restroom facilities and outdoor seating will also be available, giving guests more convenience and space to relax.
If you plan to boat this fall, it is especially important to be prepared for cold water this time of the year. Be sure to follow these tips:
- Make sure every person on board wears a life jacket, to Keep What Matters Afloat
- Create a float plan detailing trip itinerary and passenger information.
- Stay informed about weather and water conditions before setting out.
- Be cold-water smart. As temperatures drop, hypothermia can set in fast. Dress for the water, not just the weather.
- Boat sober and be considerate of others on the water.
- Carry all required safety equipment and inspect it regularly for damage.
To learn more about boating safety and check out some more safety tips, visit ohiodnr.gov/boating.
Looking for a fun festival or outdoor activity this weekend? Check out these special events:
- Hocking State Forest Fall Color Tour on Saturday, October 25.
- Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve Fall Open House on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26.
- ROAR Day at Lake Hope State Park on Saturday, October 25.
- Those interested in finding the most eye-catching leaves throughout the season should check out ODNR’s fall color website, the official guide to the changing colors. The website includes:Weekly color updates and information to help plan a fall color adventure;
- The NEW Fall Color Tracker Map;
- Unique overnight accommodations at Ohio’s state parks;
- Fun events happening around the state, and;
- And information to participate in the Digital Ohio State Parks Passport Challenge on Ohio Trails+ powered by the OuterSpatial App.
ODNR encourages people to share fall color photos using #OhioFall25, #OhioTheHeartofitAll and #FallinOhio. Each week, ODNR will choose photos from those who use this hashtag to share on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For more fall color photos, follow ODNR, Ohio State Parks, and Ohio The Heart of It All. on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @OhioDNR, @OHStateParks, @odnrforestry, and @OhioTheHeartofitAll.