The Interesting Sights of Hardin County in Ohio

I was born and raised in the town of Kenton Ohio in Hardin County. For such a small town and county we actually have quite a bit of history and sightseeing to do. I will try to touch base on most of it. This is a great weekend get away to sight see some of the interesting things we have. I will also try and list the dates and times that some things are open and the cost if any.

We will start out with picnic areas and parks. Kenton has between 1,500 and 2,000 acres of recreational space. There is a park called Saulisberry park. It started out as a quarry but has since become a great place to camp, play at the park, fish, go boating, have some picnics, or just sit back and enjoy the geese that are present everywhere at this park. Camping is very reasonable. If you care to fish, you must buy an inexpensive quarry permit. If you like to fish for mostly bluegill, this is your spot. A great place to take children for inexpensive outdoor fun. This park is located off of State Route 67 West. It is located about 2 mile from Kenton. We also have a park and lake that is called Boyscout Lake. This is located west of Kenton on State Route 309 East. It has a huge picnic area, playground for the children and lake to fish at. You must have an Ohio fishing license to fish this. There are also geese and plenty of wild birds here to watch. We have several local parks. Most are kept up pretty well. They are located on Cherry Street, South Oak Street, State Route 309 East(Pioneer Park), and a skate park on Glendale Street.

Kenton has a nice golf course. Veteran's Memorial Park, located at 15906 State Route 309 East of Kenton. I think it is approximately 18 holes. I have never been to this but have heard good things about it. Kenton has five softball fields, a bowling alley, and tennis courts. We also have a fairly new public swimming pool which is off of State Route 309 West on Hillcrest Lane. We have a YMCA with a wellness center included directly behind our public pool. It includes a six lane heated indoor pool, full size gymnasium, indoor walking track, racquetball court, exercise rooms, a nursery and a meeting room. The facility occupies more than 28,000 square feet. The street address for this is 918 West franklin Street.

Some of our historical sites include The Agricultural Museum, Beech Grove Schoolhouse,1887 Railroad Depot, Fort McArthur and Cemetery, Grant Station, Devils backbone,Hog Creek Marsh,Ft. Necessity, And Hull's Trail. The Agricultural Museum has antique farm implements. It also has relics from the Scioto and Hog Creek Marshes. It has a log cabin and the Dunkirk jail. Admission is free. This is located South of Kenton on 14344 County Road 140. The Beech grove Schoolhouse was actually moved to its current site on County Road 140. This is directly East of the Hardin County Fairgrounds. It is one of the few schools left in Ohio built of scholastic wood. It was rebuilt in 1893 and was rescued then moved by the Hardin County Historical Society. It is open the last weekend in September or if you have a group you can make an appointment by calling 419-673-7147. The 1887 Railroad Depot is located in Ada. It is an example of Stick Style architecture. You can get more information by calling 419-674-4590. Fort McArthur and Cemetery is located on County Road 106 & Township Road 125. This is West of Kenton.This is where supply depot and garrison along Hull's Trace was established during the War of 1812. Hardin County's first post office, courtroom, and settlement was here. It is named after Col. Duncan McArthur. This is located on State Route 53. It is a small town named after President U.S. Grant. It provided an important coaling station for Big Four railroad.

Hardin County has alot of what they call Old Order Amish. They have been making Hardin County their home since the early 1950's.You can take a drive through the countryside and see how simple they keep their lives. At some of the houses you will find that they sell baked goods, eggs, and some crafts and wooden things they have built. The majority of the Old Order Amish are located between State Route 309 East and State Route 31 South. You can receive more information on this if you contact the Hardin County Tourism office at 1-88-TO HARDIN.

If you or your family are up for a walk or a hike then Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve would be a good place. It has a , 1059 acre woods. It has a boardwalk style path or you can hike through the woods. They have quite a few of rare plant and animal species. It is located 4 miles south of Kenton off County Road 190.

If you happen to be here on Labor Day weekend the Leafy Oak (Kenton National) field trial is going on. It is one of the largest flea markets. It has vendors from all over the United States and there is absolutely something for everyone. This is a very popular event. It is located on State Route 292 south of Kenton.
As you can see, there is plenty to do in Hardin County. I have not covered everything. I just touched base on alot of them. If you are interested in coming to Hardin County, you should call the above tourism office which I listed above. I am sure they can help you plan the perfect trip to Hardin County. I hope to see you here and I hope you enjoy. I have used some information from the Hardin County phone book under fun things to do.