Discover Fall’s Beauty in Portsmouth and Shawnee State Forest
You ease your car window down as the cool breeze brushes your face. Golden leaves swirl along the roadside as you wind through Shawnee State Forest. It feels quiet, yet alive, in that peaceful way only autumn can bring. This is what an autumn adventure in Scioto County is all about. It is where color takes over and simple moments become unforgettable.
When fall sweeps across Southern Ohio, it transforms familiar places. Portsmouth and the Shawnee State Forest area become a playground for leaf lovers, nature seekers, and anyone needing to hit pause. Whether chasing scenic drives or paddling peaceful waters, this part of Ohio is where you want to be.
Winding Roads and Wilderness Wonders at Shawnee State Forest and Park
One of the best ways to take in the fall colors in Scioto County is by car. Driving along the winding roads of Shawnee State Forest, you’ll find yourself surrounded on both sides by fiery reds, warm yellows, and deep oranges. Every curve reveals a new view worth pulling over to capture.
For those looking for more adventure, Ben’s Happy Trails offers guided horseback riding that takes you deep into the forest. Riding under the towering trees, you will experience fall in a way that feels timeless, as you easily imagine why the early settlers fell in love with this area.
If you’re up for a little climb, the Copperhead Fire Lookout Tower awaits. The panoramic view from the top is breathtaking as the forest stretches endlessly. Blanketed in a sea of color as far as the eye can see, it’s one of the most unforgettable ways to see fall foliage in Scioto County.
Nearby, Lake Roosevelt and Turkey Creek Lake offer more quiet moments. On still days, the lakes mirror the trees, creating postcard-perfect reflections that beg you to slow down and take it all in.
Portsmouth: Fall Along the Ohio River
Just down the road, Portsmouth brings autumn to life in a different way. Along the riverfront, the views stretch across to Kentucky. Discover places like Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park and Alexandria Point Park, where the Ohio River becomes a natural mirror for the color-drenched hills beyond. Sit awhile and watch the leaves drift by.
For a relaxing afternoon, walk through Greenlawn Cemetery or wander the Shawnee State University campus. The paths are lined with trees showing off their autumn best.
If you’re up for a little adventure, grab a kayak and head to the Ohio River. There is something so invigorating as your oars glide you across the water, and you find yourself surrounded by fall colors. Thus creating a memory that sticks with you long after the season fades.
Make This Fall Adventure One to Remember in Scioto County
Every turn, trail, and river bend in Scioto County brings you closer to the season. From scenic drives and horseback rides to quiet parks and peaceful paddles, this piece of Ohio offers endless ways to enjoy autumn’s beauty. Don’t let the magic of autumn pass you by. Plan your trip and make your own memories before the last leaves fall. Go to Explore Scioto for more information.
