Get Out There: Outdoor recreation opportunities shine in Gallia County
Gallia County is home to some phenomenal, uncrowded, outdoor recreation gems. Each of these spots offers its unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Gatewood Trail System: Nestled in the hills surrounding the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College, this trail system is a haven for mountain bikers, hikers, and nature lovers. It features a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels on bike, winding through the woods with unique structures to add some flavor (and some air!) to your ride. It's also a great spot for a long hike and offers picturesque views of Bob Evans Farms.
Tycoon Lake: This serene lake is a favorite among anglers and kayakers. Known for its abundant fish population, including bass and bluegill, it's an ideal spot for a peaceful day of fishing. The surrounding park area also offers picnic facilities, making it perfect for a family outing. Learn more and see a map of the lake here.
Raccoon Creek County Park: This park is a delightful escape into nature. With its lush woodlands and walking trail that follows Raccoon Creek, it provides a beautiful backdrop for a light hike, picnic, and wildlife observation. The park also features a playground and multiple sports fields, making it an excellent location for families with children. Learn more here.
Gallipolis Hike & Bike Trail: This trail offers a scenic, 8-mile route taking you from near Holzer Health System’s headquarters, all the way out past Cliffside Golf Course. It’s a perfect out-and-back route for cyclists, the trailhead on 5th Avenue in Gallipolis enables easy access and parking for runners and walkers. The trail is mostly flat and all 8 miles are paved, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. It's a great way to get some exercise and see Gallipolis from a different perspective!
A portion of the Hike & Bike Trail
Gallipolis City Park: Located in the heart of downtown Gallipolis, this park is a charming spot for relaxation and recreation. It's home to the annual Gallipolis in Lights events, as well as Gallipolis in Bloom. With plenty of walking paths, picnic benches, and plenty of places to lay out a blanket and enjoy the view of the Ohio River, this park is a hotspot for community events and concerts.
Cliffside Golf Course: Overlooking the Ohio River, this 18-hole golf course combines challenging play with stunning vistas. The course offers a variety of holes that cater to different skill levels. The breathtaking views of the river on the final five hole stretch, along with its close proximity to the airport, make for plenty of sightseeing for your round.
Crown City Wildlife Area: Spanning over 11,000 acres, this wildlife area is a paradise for hunters, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts — especially if you love quail. It's home to a diverse range of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and fields and is the result of a quarter-century of wildlife restoration work following the area’s decades of strip mining activity. Off-road vehicles are prohibited, but an afternoon drive throughout the area with your windows rolled down in hard to beat — and be sure to stop by the nearby Twisted Vine Family Winery after your drive!
The Ohio River: A centerpiece of the outdoor recreation scene in Gallia County, the Ohio River provides endless opportunities for water-based activities. Boating, fishing, and kayaking are popular along the river, and the public use area in Downtown Gallipolis offers a great spot to hop off your boat and walk over to 2nd Avenue for a bite to eat. The river's banks also offer beautiful spots for picnicking, bird watching, and simply enjoying the serene water views.
Each of these locations in Gallia County offers its unique charm and options for outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these spots provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying the great outdoors and make Gallia County an excellent place to put down roots for you and your family.