We’uns have a couple of cottages reserved at Salt Fork State Park in SE Ohio late this summer. I’ve never heard anything but nice things about the park as a family-friendly place to do summer vacations, so we thought we’d try it this year. We have kids from Kindergarten to pre-teen.
What have been your experiences there? Was it hard to get reservations at the external houseback riding joints? Is the beach OK? Hiking? Other tips?
And most importantly: Are they as strict as it looks on thir website about not bringing alcohol into the park? Do the cabin dwellers have to buy 12-packs at an in-park general store or something, or is it even drier than that? I understand why they don’t want the atmosphere of, say, Put-in-Bay, but surely a few beers within one’s cabin is OK?
I haven’t been to Salt Fork State Park (or, as I say to myself every time I pass the sign as I head south on I-77, Salt Pork State Fark), but I have been to another Ohio state park, and genteel alcohol consumption within the confines of the cabin was OK. Buy it outside the park and bring it in. No one is going to search your car at the gate.
Thanks. That’s what I would have thought too, but Mrs. Pagan was expressing concern. Not having beer for a week’s vacation would be a showstopper for some of us. :rolleyes:
I’m still very interested in any other feedback folks have about the park, btw…
I spent a couple days at the park for work a few years back. Didn’t get to do much that was recreational (it was really snowy; so we pretty much admired it from inside.) The lodge was quite nice and the food was decent (the chef was all concerned about our meals; our meeting ran into the scheduled dinner hour and he wanted everything to be perfect).
There are several riding stables in that area - you shouldn’t have a problem arranging something with one of them. If you have a particular one in mind, call ahead. Here’s the link to Salt Fork Stables - you can reserve online (warning, really annoying graphics): http://www.saltforkstables.com/
The alcohol thing is not a big deal - just don’t walk around outside with a beer in your hand. Alcohol is prohibited in public areas with exceptions made for the lodge restaurants and the golf course pro shop. Having something in your room/cottage shouldn’t be a problem.
I’ve been to the Wilds, bring a camera! Way pretty.
I’ve also been riding at Salt Fork (never stayed there though.) The horses were relaxed and it was very affordable (we also booked our rides at the last minute.)
Salt Fork tends to share the same view on alcohol as most Ohio state parks. If they don’t see it, it isn’t really there. They don’t want to see you with a can or bottle in your hand, but if you are drinking out of a plastic cup, they won’t stop and ask you what you are drinking.
I appreciate the invitation. I’ve been following that thread since you opened it. I’m a Cleveland native (Cleve Hts & Chagrin Falls), but I’m 5 1/2 hours away now ,and have to work that weekend besides.
I’m going to make one of the NEOhio DopeFests, though - it’s an impressive group up there. And this fall’s or next year’s might include the legendary Opal…
Yes, it’s not the Ritz (and they won’t make you wear a tie), but it’s pretty comfortable and nice (state parks in Ohio seem to do a nice job of that lately).
Thanks in advance.
