Stay Embrace a delightful escape in the idyllic Scioto County, where you can choose from charming bed and breakfasts exuding quaint elegance, budget-friendly hotels providing modern amenities, or immerse yourself in nature with camping under the starlit skies, creating a perfect getaway to suit every traveler's preference. Hotels Holiday Inn 711 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Quality Inn (Wheelersburg) 8226 Ohio River Road Wheelersburg, OH 45694 Website Red Roof Inn (Wheelersburg) 8340 Ohio River Road, Wheelersburg OH 45694 Website Shawnee State Lodge & Cabins 4404B State Route 125 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Quality Inn (Portsmouth) 5100 Scioto Trail, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Super 8 4266 US-23 Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Bed & Breakfasts Photo Credit: The Old Monastery The Old Monastery 2311 Timlin Rd Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Resorts Photo Credit: McChesney Ridge Big Bear Lake Family Resort 9906 Big Bear Creek Road Lucasville, Ohio 45648 Website McChesney Ridge 2198 Sedan Crabtree Road Lucasville, OH 45648 Website Vacation Rentals VRBO To view VRBO properties available for rent in Scioto County, OH click the button below. Website Journey Adventures 2914 Mackeltree Rd., Blue Creek, OH 45616 Website AirBnB To view AirBnB properties available for rent in Scioto County, OH click the button below. Website Camping Ohio River Campground (Shawnee State Park) 11152 US-52 Stout, OH 45684 Website Riverview Campground 1224 Kenyon Rd Franklin Furnace, OH 45629 Website Ben’s Happy Trails Riding Stable and Campground 3494 Big Spruce Road Otway, OH 45657 Website Bear Lake Horse Camp Contact the Shawnee State Forest office for more information. Website Wolford's Landing 6888 Front Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Turkey Creek Campground (Shawnee State Park) 5648 State Route 125 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Lazy Village Campground & RV Park 13610 US Highway 52 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Wayne National Forest 13700 US Highway 33 Nelsonville, OH 45764 (office) Website Lazy Village Campground & RV Park 13610 US-52 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website

Scioto Travel and Tourism Blogs These travel and tourism blogs are your passport to adventure! They offer a delightful mix of personal stories, tips, and stunning visuals that inspire wanderlust in every reader. From hidden gems in Downtown Portsmouth to serene landscapes off the beaten path at Shawnee State Park and Forest, these blogs capture the essence of exploration within Portsmouth-Scioto County. Exploring Candyland Children's Museum: A Memorable Venue for Birthday Parties Candyland Children’s Museum is a fun, flexible birthday party venue in downtown Portsmouth’s Boneyfiddle District. The indoor, climate-controlled space offers private access to three floors for two hours, customizable décor and food, and optional character visits like Bluey, Paw Patrol, or Mario. With convenient weekend times and helpful staff, it’s an easy, memorable choice for families year-round. Feb 26 Article: Portsmouth's Winterfest Proves the Best Holiday Gifts are Moments Shared In the heart of southern Ohio, the city of Portsmouth knows how to make the holiday season memorable. Each winter, this riverfront community transforms into a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie—complete with twinkling lights, horse-drawn carriages, and cozy family traditions. But Portsmouth’s Winterfest doesn’t just celebrate the season. It makes history doing it. Nov 18, 2025 Weekend Wanders: Discovering the Natural Wonders of Scioto County Embark on a an unforgettable adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Portsmouth-Scioto County. Explore State Parks and winding trails, family fun at the local farms, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Nov 7, 2025 🍁 Fall in Love with Portsmouth-Scioto County: A Perfect Autumn Getaway 🍂 When the air turns crisp and the hills of southern Ohio erupt into fiery shades of red, gold, and orange, there’s no better time to visit Portsmouth and Scioto County. Sep 5, 2025 Unveiling the Glory of the Portsmouth Spartans: A Forgotten Chapter in NFL History Among the forgotten franchises is the Portsmouth Spartans, a spirited team from Portsmouth, Ohio, that showcased the tough and passionate essence of early professional football. In this blog post, we will explore the rich history of the Portsmouth Spartans, including their formation, remarkable achievements, and their eventual fate in the ever-changing world of the NFL. Sep 4, 2025 Roadside Geology of Scioto County, Ohio: A Traveler’s Guide Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Plateau, Scioto County offers more than just scenic beauty—it’s a living laboratory of Earth’s dynamic history. From ancient oceans to Ice Age floods, the rocks and landscapes here tell a fascinating geologic tale. If you're a geology buff, nature lover, or curious traveler, this guide is your roadmap to exploring some of Ohio’s most compelling natural features. Jun 4, 2025 Exploring the Best Biking Trails in Portsmouth Scioto County Portsmouth-Scioto County offers a variety of biking opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels. The region features scenic routes along the Ohio River, providing picturesque views and a pleasant riding experience. Jun 3, 2025 Uncover the Best Theatres and Arts Entertainment in Portsmouth-Scioto County: A Cultural Enthusiast's Must-See! Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene with this ultimate guide to artistic entertainment in Portsmouth-Scioto County! Apr 2, 2025 Discover the Breathtaking Views from Copperhead Lookout Fire Tower on Your Next Adventure! Experience the wonderful views of Shawnee State Forest atop the Copperhead Fire Tower! Feb 19, 2025 Exploring Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park: Fun Activities for Every Visitor Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park is a hidden gem nestled near Portsmouth, with views of the Ohio River and the hills of Southern Ohio. Feb 10, 2025 Must-Visit Cozy Spots and Exciting Activities in Portsmouth-Scioto County Are you ready to dive into a world of warmth and fun? Explore some amazing places where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some indoor fun! Jan 3, 2025 Exploring the Enchanting Winter Landscapes of Scioto County In winter, Portsmouth-Scioto County transforms into a snowy playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The crisp air and scenic landscapes offer opportunities for various winter activities, from snow sports to nature walks. Whether you're experienced or new to winter adventures, nearby trails, frozen lakes, and views invite exploration. This guide highlights top winter recreational opportunities near Portsmouth to help you enjoy the season. Exploring the trails at Shawnee State Park Dec 31, 2024 Article: Portsmouth Ohio: A Comeback Story of Community and Creativity Economic depression plagued the City of Portsmouth. But through arts, music, and community spirit, the city has experienced a resurgence. Nov 4, 2024 Article: Capture the Magic of Christmas in a Small Town Capture the Magic of Christmas with a visit to Portsmouth-Scioto County! Nov 4, 2024 Shawnee State Park: A Nature Lover's Haven Shawnee State Park is one of Scioto County's hidden gems with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities and plenty of natural beauty. Oct 25, 2024 1 2

About Meet our Director Hello and welcome to Portsmouth-Scioto Co unty! You can say that tourism has always been a part of my life in some way. As a kid, I grew up on a farm in northern Ohio just 20 minutes from one of the most famous amusement parks, Cedar Point Amusement Park. Despite being close to such a big attraction, my family traveled to various places around the country from Alaska to the Florida Keys and everywhere in between. This is where my inspiration for my career choice began. I began my career in tourism in a somewhat unconventional way. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Environment and Natural Resources with a focus on Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from The Ohio State University. After graduation, I traveled the country again, but this time not as a visitor, but rather as a park ranger for the National Park Service. My life as a park ranger took me to a variety of places across the country including Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and other such sites across the U.S. So what brings a park ranger to the hills of southern Ohio? My family. My wife and her family are from Minford, OH, located in the northeastern part of the county. Throughout my time here, I’ve grown to appreciate the cultural and natural resources we have right in our own backyard. From the hills in Shawnee State Forest to the Ohio River, there is always something beautiful to discover in Scioto County! I hope you enjoy your visit! – Nate Welch, Executive Director Stop by and see us! Tourism Partner & Member of the following organizations:

Nearby Attractions While Scioto County offers an abundance of attractions, don't miss the opportunity to venture beyond its borders and explore these nearby gems. Serpent Mound Serpent Mound, an ancient effigy mound located in Adams County near Scioto County, Ohio, is a fascinating archaeological site. Shaped like a serpent and believed to be over 1,000 years old, this historic earthwork holds cultural and spiritual significance, drawing visitors to ponder its mysterious origins and intricate design. LEARN MORE Dogwood Pass Dogwood Pass, nestled in Pike County near Scioto County, Ohio, is a captivating Old West town that transports visitors back in time. With authentic buildings, themed events, and live entertainment, this immersive attraction offers a unique opportunity to experience the Wild West in all its glory. LEARN MORE Visit Ashland Kentucky Nestled on the southern banks of the Ohio River in the tri-state area of Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia is the blooming city of Ashland waiting for you to unwind and explore. LEARN MORE Malibu Jack's Malibu Jack's in Ashland, Kentucky, is a thrilling entertainment complex that promises an action-packed experience for visitors of all ages. From go-karts and mini-golf to arcade games and laser tag, this vibrant destination offers endless fun and excitement for families and friends. LEARN MORE Jackson Lake State Park Jackson Lake State Park, located in Oak Hill, Ohio, offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. With a tranquil lake perfect for boating and fishing, along with scenic trails and lush surroundings, this park invites outdoor enthusiasts to unwind and explore the beauty of Scioto County's landscapes. LEARN MORE Sandy's Racing & Gaming Sandy's Racing & Gaming in Ashland, Kentucky, is a thrilling destination for those seeking high-speed excitement and gaming entertainment. From live horse racing to a vibrant gaming floor featuring slots and more, visitors can experience the adrenaline rush of the track and the thrill of casino games all in one place. LEARN MORE KY State Parks Kentucky State Parks offer a diverse range of natural beauty and recreational opportunities across the state. From serene lakes and lush forests to historic sites and outdoor activities, these parks provide a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike. LEARN MORE

Recreation Scioto County beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse range of recreational activities. From scenic hiking trails and thrilling water sports along the Ohio River to serene camping spots and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, the county offers an endless playground for nature lovers of all ages. Hiking For the best hiking spots in Scioto County, check out Shawnee State Park , Raven Rock Nature Preserve , and Wayne National Forest . For a more quiet and secluded experience, check out the hiking opportunities through the preserves of Arc of Appalachia: Gladys Riley Golden Star Lily Preserve , Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve , and Tremper Mound . Water Sports For the best kayak/canoeing spots, check out The Scioto River (launch site at Alexandria Point), Roosevelt Lake, Turkey Creek Lake , and Scioto Brush Creek . For the best boating, head to the Ohio River. Boat ramps are available at Shawnee State Marina , Shawnee Boat Club , The Anchor Pad Boat Club , and Holiday Point Marina and Campground . Disc Golf For the best disc golf courses in Scioto County, check out the Earl Thomas Conley Park Course , and the Shawnee State Park Course . Camping For the best camping in Scioto County, check out our overview of campground s . Dog Parks For the best dog parks, check out Spock Memorial Dog Park in Portsmouth , and Shawnee State Ohio River Campground Dog Park . Golf & Miniature Golf For the best golfing, check out The Elks Country Club , Little Scioto Golf Course , and Wheelersburg Golf Center . For miniature golf, check out Buckeye Dairy Bar . Indoor Amusement If indoor amusement is what you are looking for, check out Boneyfiddle Golf and Lounge , The Vault Ohio E-Sports & video gaming, or Deadbolt: Boneyfiddle Escape Rooms and Mysteries . Read our guide for all things indoor amusement in Scioto County! Mountain & Road Biking For the best mountain biking in Scioto County, check out Shawnee State Park . Horseback Riding For the best horseback riding in Scioto County, check out Ben's Happy Trails . If you are bringing your own horses, check out Bear Lake Horse Camp in Shawnee State Park . ATV Riding For the best ATV trails in Scioto County, check out Wayne National Forest . Fishing For the best fishing in Scioto County, check out Turkey Creek Lake, Roosevelt Lake , Lake Vesuvius , The Ohio River, and The Scioto River. There are also many Pay Lakes like Grey Wolf Pay Lake . Pump Tracks & Skate Park For the best pump tracks, check out Earl Thomas Conley Park and the Shawnee State Ohio River Campground . For the best skate park, check out Portsmouth Skate Park . Motorsports For the best motorsports, check out KD Motorsports Park and Wheelersburg Raceway . Farms & Orchards Scioto County's agritourism scene provides an authentic and immersive experience for visitors seeking to connect with the land and local traditions. From picking fresh apples in picturesque orchards to navigating challenging corn mazes on family farms, agritourism in Southern Ohio offers a delightful blend of rural charm and hands-on activities for all to enjoy. EXPLORE Indoor Amusement When the weather turns chilly or you're seeking indoor entertainment, Scioto County offers a range of thrilling options. Practice your swing at Boneyfiddle Golf and Lounge or dive into mystery and puzzles at Deadbolt Escape Room , where your problem-solving skills are put to the test in immersive and exciting scenarios. Try your hand at video gaming at The Vault Ohio , a state-of-the-art ESPORTS and video arcade arena with a 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) fiber optic connection. Indoors in Scioto County, the fun never stops! EXPLORE Mountain biking in Shawnee State Forest was an exhilarating experience that exceeded all expectations. The forest's diverse trails offered a perfect mix of challenging climbs, thrilling descents, and breathtaking scenery. Whether navigating through lush woodlands or tackling rugged terrains, every twist and turn was a reminder of the sheer beauty and adventure that Shawnee State Forest has to offer to mountain biking enthusiasts like me." Alex Y.

7 Nations Celtic Club of Southern Ohio St. Patrick's Day Parade The 7 Nations Celtic Club would like to invite you to their 20th Annual Grand Saint Patrick's Day Parade. This year's parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 14th, 2026 and starts at 11 a.m. Line-up takes place at Market Square between 10-10:30 a.m. Wanting to be in the parade? Please fill out a Parade Application - available at the Scioto County Welcome Center (342 Second Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662). Payments can be made online or via check. For payment by checks, please make checks payable to the 7 Nations Celtic Club of Southern Ohio and mail or hand deliver checks and applications to the Scioto County Welcome Center (342 Second Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662). For online payments, please click the button below: For more information, please contact Jill MacDonald (jillmac71@hotmail.com ) or Betty Everett (ble3741@gmail.com ). Celebrating Celtic Heritage in the Heart of Portsmouth In the rolling hills of Southern Ohio, the 7 Nations Celtic Club keeps the spirit of the Celtic lands alive and thriving. Dedicated to celebrating the rich traditions of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, Galicia, and the Isle of Man, the club brings together music lovers, history enthusiasts, dancers, and families who share a passion for Celtic culture. Throughout the year, the 7 Nations Celtic Club hosts gatherings filled with traditional music sessions, cultural programs, storytelling, and fellowship. Whether you’re drawn to the stirring sound of bagpipes, the rhythm of Celtic drums, or the warmth of Irish hospitality, you’ll find a welcoming community ready to share in the experience. Portsmouth’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade: A Celebration of Heritage, Community & Irish Cheer The crown jewel of the club’s activities is Portsmouth’s beloved Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade — a lively tradition that transforms downtown into a sea of green each March. This family-friendly celebration brings the community together in a joyful display of Celtic pride. Marchers in kilts, pipe and drum ensembles, dancers, decorated floats, community groups, and local organizations fill the streets with color, music, and festive energy. Spectators line the sidewalks, dressed in their best St. Patrick’s Day attire, ready to cheer and celebrate. More than just a parade, it’s a celebration of heritage and hometown spirit — a day when the streets of Portsmouth echo with the sounds of bagpipes and laughter, and everyone is a little bit Irish. Join the Celebration: Saturday, March 14th, 2026 Whether you have Celtic roots or simply love great music and good company, the 7 Nations Celtic Club welcomes you. Come experience the tradition, the pageantry, and the unmistakable charm of Portsmouth’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade — where culture and community come together in true Celtic style. This year, the parade celebrates 20 years! Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 14th, 2026 and begins at 11 a.m. on Market Square. The parade route is as follows: Down Market Street (Staging Area) Left on 2nd Street Left on Washington Street Right on 5th Street Left at Chillicothe Street Ends at Tracy Park 🍀 Sláinte and see you in March!

Events at Scioto County Public Library

Plan your visit Planning a day trip or weekend getaway is the perfect way to break free from the routine and explore new horizons. Whether you choose to embark on a thrilling outdoor adventure, immerse yourself in cultural experiences, or simply relax in a charming destination, the anticipation of a well-planned escape promises endless excitement and cherished memories.

Revolutionary War Encampment 2026 SAVE THE DATE: AUGUST 15TH AND 16TH, 2026 Scioto County is proud to put on their 1st Annual Revolutionary War Encampment! This special event will be extra special as we celebrate America250! Stay tuned for more information. Location for the encampment will be at Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park in West Portsmouth, OH.

Arts & Entertainment Events in Scioto County Explore Scioto County’s vibrant arts & entertainment scene! This is your premier destination for live music, theater performances, and artistic experiences in Scioto County, Ohio. From kid-friendly art events at the Portsmouth Area Arts Council , to live concerts at Columbia Theatre , or a musical at The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts , there is entertainment for everyone. Enjoy local arts, live music, & theatrical performances right here in Scioto County, Ohio!