The Wonder of Wandering

the wonder of wandering Whether you’re looking for an action-packed day outdoors or some reflective time in nature, the many parks of Fayette County have you covered. by ann fazzini

Eyman Park

Deer Creek State Park Buckeye Hills Country Club

H

ave trouble sitting still? Deer Creek State Park will keep you on your toes. In addition to hiking and bridle trails, disc golf and the 18-hole golf course, the park’s lake offers swimming, fishing, boating and — in the colder months — ice fishing.

Anglers will also love casting a line at Washington Park in Washington Court House — look for special fishing derby events during the summer. From here, take the 1.4-mile walking loop that connects to Eyman Park, where you’ll find a playground and restored 1940s-era train that kids will love.

Just across town at Christman Memorial Park, bikers, walkers and joggers can traverse a 4-mile path and enjoy plenty of greenspace. Bring your best canine friend: there’s also an off-leash play area for pups.

Birdwatchers and wildlife lovers: don’t miss Shaw Wetland, which features a vernal pool that attracts frogs, toads and other pond-loving creatures. Stroll the boardwalk through the wetland and keep your eyes peeled for waterbirds, shorebirds and more.

Those looking to book some tee time can tackle the gently rolling slopes of the Buckeye Hills Country Club, the beautiful-but-challenging Deer Creek State Park Golf Course or the manicured 9-hole course at The Greens of Fayette County

Park District.

Blazing Trails

There’s no better way to enjoy a sampling of Fayette County’s landscape than by taking a bike ride or jog on the Paint Creek Recreational Trail, a paved path created on a long-abandoned B&O Railroad line. The 34.8-mile trail kicks off in Washington Court House and meanders through wide-open spaces, quaint and scenic farmlands, shady wooded areas and small towns that make for perfect pit stops. Along the way, look for a covered bridge over Shepard’s Run and end your ride in Chillicothe with a visit to the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, where early American Indians made their home some 2,000 years ago.

Cache In!

Part hiking adventure, part puzzle-solving brainteaser, part treasure hunt, geocaching is a hot hobby and a whole new way to experience the nature and history of Fayette County. Explore hidden gems around the county, look for clues and find hidden caches in parks, near historical sites and around other public areas. To get started, grab a GPS device or use a GPS feature on a smartphone, then go to visitfayco.com/things-to-do and click “Geocaching.” We’ll send you coordinates and clues to 13 historic spots around the county and all the information you’ll need for a fun family adventure.

Fayette County Museum

around the county

Buckeye Hills Country Club

7261 Limes Rd., Greenfield, OH 45123 937-981-4136, buckeyehillsgolf.com

Tee off at Buckeye Hills Country Club, a lovely 18 hole course with sand traps and ponds.

Christman Park

1185-1217 Elm St., Washington Court House, OH 43160

Find outdoor fun at this community park offering basketball courts, playground area, shelter house, walking trails and bicycle trails. Bring your four-legged friend along to run and play in the enclosed off-leash dog park.

Deer Creek State Park

20635 State Park Rd. 20, Mount Sterling, OH 43143 740-869-3124, deercreekparklodge.com

This 2,337-acre park offers a large lake with fishing, boating and swimming. Eight hiking trails with an additional two bridle trails are available. A modern campground, cabins and lodge provide overnight accommodations.

Eyman Park

140 E. Eyman Park Dr., Washington Court House, OH 43160

Head to Eyman Park for horseshoes, skateboarding, basketball and a stocked lake for public fishing.

Fayette County Farmer’s Market

101 E. East St., Washington Court House, OH 43160 740-606-3467, fayettecountyfarmers market.wordpress.com

This farmers market sells locally grown fruits and vegetables as well as local honey, eggs, meats, bakery items and flowers direct from vendors.

Fayette County Museum

517 Columbus Ave., Washington Court House, OH 43160 740-335-2953

Explore the checkered history of Fayette County and Washington Court House at the Fayette County Museum. The 143-year-old houseturned-museum, built in 1875 by Morris Sharp, features 14 rooms showcasing pieces and artifacts from the county’s history. Tour the museum by appointment during the months of April–September on Saturdays 1–4 p.m. or Sundays by first come, first serve bases.

Game on Arcade

202 E. Court St., Washington Court House, OH 43160 740-313-7265

Dig into pizza and wings as you play nearly 25 old school arcade games.

Geocaching

740-335-2953

Who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt? Following a map, searching for clues and discovering “treasure” is exciting stuff for any age! The Fayette County History Geotrail takes geocachers on a hunt for 13 caches placed throughout the county that all have a historical significance. To get started, download the free geocaching app on your smart device. Complete the trail, fill out the passport and submit it to Fayette County Historical Society to receive a commemorative coin.

Historical Markers Driving Tour

visitfayco.com/things-to-do

The vibrant and rich history of Fayette County comes alive through a driving tour of Historical Markers. Explore all nine Ohio Historical Society Historical Markers in Fayette County that commemorate specific sites, events and people. Courtesy of the Fayette County Historical Society.

Jeffersonville Area Veterans Memorial Park

This memorial is located in downtown Jeffersonville and lists the names of 1,140 local veterans starting with the Revolutionary War through current day.

Jeffersonville Pool

42 Colonial Dr., Jeffersonville, OH 43128 740-426-6873

Cool off from the hot summer sun at the Jeffersonville Pool, open Memorial Day weekend through the start of school. Seasonal passes and private parties are available.

Le Ella Lanes

1428 U.S. Rte. 22 N.W., Washington Court House, OH 43160 740-335-2580, leellalanes.com

This family-owned bowling alley offers open bowling, leagues and private parties, while its Amore’ Pizzeria serves up pizza, subs and more.

Paint Creek Recreation Trail

2820 Robinson Rd., Washington Court House, OH 43160 tricountytriangletrail.org

Enjoy the great outdoors on this 32-mile paved trail connecting Fayette, Ross and Highland counties. Bridges and wildlife abound.

1640 U.S. Rte. 22 N.W., Washington Court House, OH 43160 740-335-6481, rollerhavenfuncenter.com

Boogie down on four wheels per foot at this roller skating rink perfect for events such as birthday parties.

The Greens of Fayette County Park District

703 Highland Ave., Washington Court House, OH 43160

Play nine holes of outstanding golf on this course.

Veterans Memorial Park

This small downtown Washington Court House park offers benches, a veterans’ memorial, flowers during the summer and festive decorations for the holidays. Featuring an original Harry Ahysen mural called “Many Things Are Centered Here” depicting the old train depot and the County Court House.

White Fence Gallery

137 E. Court St., Washington Court House, OH 43160

Find classes, workshops and community events based on painting, photography, jewelry and more, all geared towards creativity and arts.

24 Hour Access!

No Joining Fee No Contract

When you join the Y, you’re committing to more than simply becoming healthier. You are supporting the values and programs that strengthen your community.

For more than a workout. For a better us.

FAYETTE COUNTY FAMILY YMCA

Visit us at Faycoymca.org 7403350477

Jeffersonville Area Veterans Memorial Park

Fayette County FARMERS MARKET

PRODUCTS RANGE FROM:

• Vegetables and Fruits • Local Eggs & Meats • Honey, Jams & Jellies • Herbs, Plants & Flowers • Home Baked Goods • Unique Crafts & More

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Contact: David Persinger, Market Manager Phone: 740-606-3467 Email: faycofarmersmkt@sbcglobal.net