Get Some Fresh Air! Fun Outdoor Activities In and Around Youngstown, Ohio!

Now that the weather is warmer, it’s the perfect time to unplug, get outside and explore all that Mahoning County has to offer.

From camping near some of Ohio’s best lakes and rivers to hiking along scenic trails, there are outdoor activities in the Youngstown area for young and old alike. So, if you’re ready for some family fun or are just looking for a new summer adventure, read on to see why the Mahoning Valley should be at the top of your list for outdoor recreation!

Mill Creek MetroParks

Mill Creek MetroParks sprawls an impressive 2,658 acres, with countless pockets of recreational areas and over 45 miles of walking, biking and hiking trails. It’s known as the green jewel of Youngstown — and for good reason!

Historic Landmarks

Pioneer Pavilion, the larger-than-life stone parapet bridge, and the silver suspension bridge (also known as the Cinderella or Princess Bridge) are just some iconic places throughout the park. And, let’s not forget the Lily Pond! All are surrounded by walking trails, so when you visit, plan part of the day for a relaxing hike or quick picnic.

Ford Nature Center

Having undergone an extensive $4 million renovation, this historic former home of the Ford Family has been totally transformed. It now offers interactive educational exhibits and a bird observation room inside, as well as a native wildflower meadow and rooftop garden. The Axtman Trail for all people is a totally accessible paved trail and includes educational signage. Be sure to stop in the gift shop for your Mill Creek swag and nature-inspired gifts.

James L. Wick Recreation Area

There’s so much to do in this beloved, spacious part of the park. Wick’s 65 acres include areas to enjoy volleyball, soccer fields, tennis, Dek hockey, baseball and softball fields, batting cages, football fields and luscious green space to fly kites. The Juliana Kurinka Children’s Play Area offers four play areas for children of all ages. There’s also a par 3 golf course.

Fellows Riverside Gardens

A breathtaking showcase of natural beauty, Fellows Riverside Garden is filled with vibrant blooms and ever-changing floral displays. This free public garden is a haven for flower lovers, featuring everything from delicate spring tulips and fragrant roses to radiant summer dahlias and rich chrysanthemums. Wander along peaceful pathways lined with colorful flower beds, admire the meticulously manicured landscapes and take in the beauty that makes it a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts.

While you’re there, stop by the D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center to explore the gift shop and charming cafe, where you can grab something to eat and drink while soaking in the serene surroundings.

Lanterman’s Mill

Get ready to step back in time while you make your way to Lanterman’s Mill. Built in the 1840s, this gristmill is still functional today, grinding corn, wheat and buckwheat. You can take home a bag from the gift shop! Step onto the observation deck for a breathtaking view of waterfalls and greenery, and walk across the Covered Bridge. From the Mill, you can hike the popular and scenic East and West Gorge Trails that take you past Umbrella Rock and the Suspension Bridge.

MetroParks Farm

Located in Canfield, the MetroParks Farm includes an archery range, disc golf, ponds where you can fish, seasonal animal barns and so much more. The Farm also serves as a trailhead for the 11-mile paved MetroParks Bikeway, enjoyed by hikers, skaters and bicyclists.

Mill Creek Golf Courses

What would outdoor recreation be if we didn’t talk about golf? Mill Creek Park has three 18-hole courses – the North Course and the South Course (which are both Donald Ross designs) and a more intimate Par 3. Golfers of all skill levels are sure to enjoy these courses!

Yellow Creek Park

Yellow Creek Park includes 76 acres located off Lowellville Road in Struthers. It’s operated by Mill Creek MetroParks and offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, tennis, basketball and even a game of horseshoes. For those who are hitting the trails, make sure you keep an eye out for the historic Hopewell Furnace site, which is accessible when creek levels are low.

Go Camping

Sure, the greater Youngstown area (and parts of Mahoning County) are known for their bustling entertainment spots, but there are also a handful of places to get away from the rush of it all and go camping.

Lake Milton/Berlin Lake KOA

This friendly, family-oriented campground offers primitive spots, RV sites, cabin rentals, glamping tents and even a covered wagon! Lake Milton/Berlin Lake KOA is located at 15487 Creed Road in Lake Milton.

Western Reserve Park RV Resort & Campground

Located at 10580 W. Western Reserve Road in Canfield, this family-owned campground offers all sorts of fun, from themed weekend events to everyday outdoor activities.

Mill Creek Campground

Whether you like roughing it in a tent or camping in comfort in an RV, all are welcome at Mill Creek Campground in Berlin Center, located at 7400 Bedell Road. The site, which is located along the shore of Berlin Lake, offers 295 sites (100 of which have electric hookups).

Downtown Youngstown

You might not realize it at first, but downtown Youngstown has some beautiful green spaces that offer up fun outdoor activities during the warmer months.

Wean Park

Listen to a national act at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre, walk Huntington Bank Community Alley, visit the Robinson-Shuba commemorative statue or take a group photo at the YOUNGSTOWN sign (with the cityscape behind you).

Youngstown Flea

This indoor/outdoor market occurs once a month at 365 E. Boardman St. and has quickly become one of the most popular places in the Valley. In addition to its vendors, artisans and food trucks, Youngstown Flea also holds free yoga once a month (#FreeYogaAtTheFlea), has a great outdoor space for yard games — and is pet friendly!

White House Fruit Farm

Open year-round, White House Fruit Farm in Canfield is known for its delicious donuts and fresh produce (much of which is grown on the farm). Visit the Budgie Barn and feed little birds, cut your own sunflowers during the summer season, let the kids have fun in the play areas or simply sit by the pond and enjoy some of the goodies you bought in their market.

Canfield Fair

The ultimate outdoor event in Mahoning County happens every year during Labor Day weekend — the Canfield Fair. This iconic fair has been a local tradition since 1946 and is now Ohio’s largest county fair, bringing together thrilling rides, live entertainment, delicious fair food and agricultural exhibits. Whether you’re cheering at the demolition derby or grabbing fresh fries and a lemon shake, there are plenty of family-friendly events and activities at the Fair. If you’re looking for a Labor Day weekend getaway to northeast Ohio, look no further!

Fresh Air in the Parks

The Youngstown area’s many parks are just a small part of what makes the Valley so great! We have both state parks and municipal parks in Mahoning County, in addition to Mill Creek MetroParks (mentioned earlier), all easily accessible no matter where you’re coming from.

Lake Milton

Known for boating and fishing, Lake Milton State Park also has a beach, showers, basketball and volleyball courts, a playground and lots of picnic areas. Lake Milton has nearly 1700 acres of the best recreational water in Ohio. A 600-foot beach with showers, playground, picnic areas and a newly opened Storybook Trail (at the north end of the beach) is a popular place to cool off during the summer months.

Berlin Lake

Fish walleye, bass and crappie at Berlin Lake, a wildlife management area. Multiple boat launches allow for fishing enthusiasts and kayakers alike to access the lake, which takes up nearly 3,600 acres (in addition to the 8500 acres of land, 4900 of which are available for public hunting).

Austintown Township Park

Concerts, a dog park and playground are all part of Austintown’s beloved 206-acre park. Green spaces include natural grasslands, streamside forest, ravines, Corll Meadows and the one-acre Yeager Pond with observation deck.

Boardman Township Park

Four miles of trails wrap around nearly 300 managed acres in the heart of Boardman. Boardman Park’s open-air pavilions, the historic St. James Meeting House (which is a popular wedding venue) and the larger-than-life Kids Town Playground are just some of the popular attractions this unique space has to offer (not to mention cornhole and a disc golf course!).

Handel’s Ice Cream

After you explore Mahoning County’s beautiful parks, there’s no better way to cool down than with a sweet treat from Handel’s Ice Cream. While this beloved ice cream shop has since expanded across the country, it all started right here in Youngstown, Ohio in 1945, making it a true hometown favorite. Since all locations are walk-up only, you’ll get to take in even more fresh air while you wait – and plenty of benches to enjoy your sweet treat.

Paddle the Mahoning River!

The revitalization of the Mahoning River has opened up new opportunities for recreational paddling. Use the launch area in the City of Struthers and canoe or kayak to Riverfront Park in the Village of Lowellville without obstructions. Enjoy a scenic float past the remnants of the industrial giants that once lined the river, all while taking in the wildlife and waterfowl.

Visit Youngstown State University

Exploring Youngstown State University’s campus is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while taking in the heart of the city. Whether you’re strolling through scenic walkways, relaxing by the campus fountain or admiring the architecture of historic buildings like Jones Hall, YSU offers a beautiful and walkable space to explore.

The Butler Institute of American Art

If you need a break from the sun, The Butler Institute of American Art is the perfect place to enjoy a dose of culture. Located near YSU’s campus, this renowned museum is home to an impressive collection of American artwork, spanning from colonial times to contemporary pieces. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing indoor escape, The Butler offers a refreshing change of pace from your outdoor adventures.

Ward Beecher Planetarium

If you need a break from the sun but still want an out-of-this-world experience, Ward Beecher Planetarium is the perfect spot for you. Located right on YSU’s campus, this hidden gem offers free, family-friendly shows that take you on a journey through the stars, planets and beyond. With its state-of-the-art projection system and immersive presentations, the planetarium is a stellar stop on your Youngstown adventure.

Get Out and Explore Youngstown!

There’s plenty of fun in the great outdoors in every corner of the Youngstown area. Whether you’re an avid hiker or are in search of a family-friendly outdoor activity, visiting some of these unique locations will make this summer the most adventurous one yet. Explore trails, waters, forests and more with friends and family and have the time of your life! If the weather isn’t cooperating, or if you want to add even more fun things to your list, check out the Covelli Centre, Stambaugh Auditorium, the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre and more great venues for performance arts, live concerts and special events.

Now, get up and go explore Mahoning County this summer! Looking for help when it comes to planning? Find even more information on local attractions and events at exploremahoning.com