Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park is a hidden gem nestled near Portsmouth. With its stunning views along the Ohio River, this park is a perfect destination for everyone. It promises enjoyment for families, friends, and solo adventurers. From the refreshing splash pad to engaging disc golf, there's something for every visitor. Let’s uncover the activities that make this park a must-visit spot!
Splash Pad: A Refreshing Escape
The splash pad is an absolute highlight at Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park! Perfect for families, this lively water attraction provides an amazing way to beat the heat on scorching summer days. With an array of water jets that spray in thrilling patterns and buckets that tip over with a splash, kids can have endless hours of fun.
Parents can comfortably watch their little adventurers from nearby shaded seating areas, ensuring a safe and delightful atmosphere. Imagine this: the cheerful sounds of laughter as children race through the water streams, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Bike Pump Track: Thrills for Cyclists
Cyclists can find their thrill at the park’s well-designed bike pump track called the Red Bull Pump Track. The Red Bull Pump Track is the largest and newest Pump Track in the state of Ohio! This unique course is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned riders. Participants can learn to gain speed and navigate curves without even pedaling.
The Pump Track features circuits of hills and banked turns and were originally designed for mountain and BMX bikers. They’re called pump tracks because bikes are moved by pumping body motion instead of pedaling. The courses are also popular with skateboarders and some are even designed to be wheelchair accessible. The park is something that could be enjoyed by both adults and kids alike!
Air Field: Soaring to New Heights
Drone and kite enthusiasts will appreciate the park's dedicated air field, which offers a fantastic space to fly kites, drones, or radio-controlled aircraft. The grass airfield is quite spacious as it is 450 ft by 120 ft, perfect for flying unobstructed. Ample parking and a portable restroom, and three picnic tables are available on site. An aluminum carport shelter is also available that offers shade and rain protection.
Also, there are six flight prep tables, three designated flight line protective barriers, and a wind direction indicator to assist all pilots. The airfield is a FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA) ensuring that it is set up with safety guidelines to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Are you interested in taking aerial drone photos? This airfield is perfect to test your skills with drone photography as you overlook the stunning views of the Ohio River landscape. It's a fantastic way to explore the beauty of nature from a different perspective, taking your photography to literal new heights!
The area even has an Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) charter. Please bear in mind that a current AMA membership is required to operate any Radio Control aircraft while visiting the field. No other club membership or fees are needed. Need more information about the local AMA charter? Call Tom McCallister at 740-533-7639.
Whether you're interested in enjoying a nice windy day with a kite or an experienced drone pilot looking to capture a cool photo or a flyer wanting to try out their new radio-controlled aircraft, we are positive that you will find your experience exhilarating!
Playgrounds: Fun for the Little Ones
Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park truly caters to the younger crowd with its well-equipped playgrounds. These play areas boast a range of equipment for different age groups, including climbing structures, swings, and slides.
Parents can relax nearby, knowing their kids are in a safe and engaging environment, allowing children to connect and create lasting friendships.
Disc Golf: A Unique Outdoor Challenge
Looking for a fun way to spend your day? The park hosts a challenging disc golf course that both novices and pros can enjoy.
Disc golf is increasing in popularity, with over 1 million players reported in the U.S. What sets this particular course apart is its beautiful backdrop of lush greenery and strategic hole placements, making it one of the finest courses in Southern Ohio. So grab your friends and see who can master the course with the lowest score!
Picnics: Dine in Nature
A day at Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park is incomplete without a picnic. Ample green space allows families to spread out and enjoy freshly prepared meals in a picturesque setting.
Pack your favorite treats and enjoy your lunch under the shade of a tree or alongside the riverbank, where the soothing sound of water sets a peaceful mood. Almost 80% of park visitors say a picnic enhances their outdoor experience, so don't forget to bring along some outdoor games like frisbee or cornhole for a bit of fun after your meal.
The Allan W. Eckert Trail: Immerse Yourself in Nature and History
For those who love to hike, the Allan W. Eckert Trail is a treat. This trail features easy-to-navigate paths suitable for all hikers.
The trail offers visitors with a view of the banks and bottom lands at the confluence of the Scioto and the Ohio Rivers. As you walk or jog along the route, not only can you enjoy breathtaking views of the river, but it's also possible to spot various wildlife and plants native to the region.
Along the way, you'll see signs with various historical, cultural, and scenic spots featured. These signs promote the Scenic Scioto Heritage Byway that encompasses the whole West side of the county! The Scenic Scioto Heritage Byway, established in 2007 and located in Scioto County in South Central Ohio, offers those who travel its over 84-miles a journey through the rugged, heavily wooded Appalachian hill country and through an area rich in history. Currently, the Byway contains 44-points-of-interest and enables the traveler the opportunity to capture the full flavor of the region and experience the varied topography and natural beauty of the area. However, the signage along the Allan W. Eckert Trail allows folks to catch a glimpse of the history by foot. Who knows, you may discover a new place to check out on your own!
Final Thoughts
Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park is packed with activities that promise fun for everyone in the Portsmouth area. From the splash pad and bike pump track to scenic trails and engaging disc golf, there are countless ways to spend your day.
So gather your friends and family, pack your picnic basket, and head to this wonderful park. Explore the myriad activities it offers and create lasting memories in the heart of Ohio. Get ready for a day filled with laughter, excitement, and outdoor adventures!