Friendship Park, located just 15 minutes from Steubenville, is a true treasure in Jefferson County. This 1,320-acre treasure is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The park, once a surface and deep-mined coal watershed, became a national model for reclamation. Its groundbreaking design was featured in the U.S. Department of the Interior’s booklet, “Preplanning: Surface Mining for Outdoor Recreation.”
Visitors are drawn to Friendship Park’s lush landscapes, which include Friendship Lake, camping facilities, hiking trails, and the Jefferson County Veterans Memorial and Prayer Garden. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, fishing, boating, or simply picnicking under Ohio’s blue skies, this park offers something for everyone.
Activities for Every Explorer
Friendship Park boasts a wealth of activities to suit adventurers of all kinds:
- Fishing and Boating: Friendship Lake’s 89 acres are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boating. Anglers will delight in catching catfish, bass, bluegill, carp, and trout.
- Hiking and Biking: Explore miles of scenic trails ideal for hiking and mountain biking.
- Horseback Riding: Take in the beauty of the park on horseback.
- Birdwatching: Spot local favorites like cardinals and woodpeckers, along with majestic osprey and bald eagles.
The Moon Tree: A Piece of Space History
One of Friendship Park’s most extraordinary features is the Moon Tree, a sycamore grown from seeds that traveled to the moon aboard Apollo 14. Planted during the U.S. bicentennial, this marvel stands near shelters 1, 2, and 3. It’s the last of Ohio’s three Moon Trees—a must-see for visitors.
Plan Your Visit
Friendship Park is more than a destination; it’s an experience steeped in natural beauty and historical significance. Learn more at friendship.jeffersoncountyoh.com. For additional travel tips and insights, visit VisitSteubenville.com.
Ready for your next adventure? Friendship Park awaits!
