Salt Fork State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Salt Fork State Park |
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Hosack's Cave, a popular hiking destination in the park
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| Location | Guernsey County, Ohio, United States |
| Area | 17,229 acres (6,972 ha) |
| Elevation | 797 ft (243 m) |
| Established | 1960 |
| Administered by | Ohio Department of Natural Resources |
| Designation | Ohio state park |
| Website | Salt Fork State Park |
Salt Fork State Park is a huge outdoor area in Guernsey County, Ohio. It is about six miles (9.7 km) north of Lore City. This park is the biggest state park in Ohio. It covers over 17,229 acres (6,972 ha) of land and 2,952 acres (1,195 ha) of water.
The park is a great place for fun and adventure. It includes the historic Kennedy Stone House. This house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources helps manage and care for the park.
A Look Back: How Salt Fork Park Began
Salt Fork gets its name from a "mineral lick" along the creek. A mineral lick is a spot where animals go to lick important minerals from the ground.
In 1956, people first thought about building a dam on the creek. They wanted to use the water for cities. But by 1960, plans changed. They decided to make the area a fun park instead!
The big earthen dam was finished in 1967. Then, in 1968, they started building places for visitors to enjoy. The Salt Fork Lodge, a place to stay, opened in 1972.
Fun Things to Do at Salt Fork Park
Salt Fork State Park has many exciting activities for everyone. You can spend a whole day or even a week here!
Here are some popular things to do:
- Golf: There is an 18-hole golf course for playing.
- Swimming: Enjoy a large swimming beach that is 2,500 feet (760 m) long.
- Boating: The park has two marinas and seven boat ramps. You can bring your own boat or rent one.
- Fishing: Try to catch different kinds of fish. These include largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, walleye, and muskellunge.
- Hunting: Some areas are open for hunting during certain seasons.
- Picnics: There are many spots to have a picnic with your family and friends.
- Trails: Explore trails for hiking and horseback riding. In winter, you can even go snowmobiling!
- Mini Golf: Play a fun game of miniature golf.
- Nature Center: Learn about the park's plants and animals at the nature center.
- Archery: Practice your aim at the archery range.
