Vacationing in Pike County, Ohio

Summer fun is easy to find in Pike County, Ohio. Although Pike County doesn't have a Cedar Point, Sea World, zoo and other tourist attractions of that nature, we do have Long's Retreat. Long's Retreat is a family oriented tourist attraction that receives thousands of visitors each year.

Long's Retreat is one of the first places to consider when planning family outings or get-togethers. It is full of summer activities for everyone, from cart racing to miniature golf, camping to fishing, and most importantly, swimming. There is also swimming, water slides and even a safe water play land for toddlers. For a closer look at this wonderful water playland, check out Long's Retreat Adventure Resort in Southern Ohio.

There is the natural resources that spawn family fun and simple enjoyments. Pike County, Ohio and the surrounding counties have been blessed with several state parks. Pike Lake offers fishing, camping, hiking, non-power boating, swimming, Frisbee golf, basketball courts and horseshoe pits. There is several cook out pits and two shelters. The shelters are in high demand during the summer months, so if you are planning to use a shelter for an important event, consider reserving it ahead of time.

Lake White offers swimming, camping, boating and cookout pits. Although there is currently no water in the lake due to the dam construction, it is expected to fill back up after a couple good, hard rainfalls. There is two shelters, one on the lower level and a second larger one on top of the hill. Both are excellent for get-togethers, but the larger one includes two large fireplaces and an extra large grill. On the lower level, there is also a small park for small children to play.

If you prefer bowling a few strikes, then Weiss Recreation at 725 W. Emmitt Avenue in Waverly is just the spot. They offer good food and drinks, alcohol and rental bowling shoes. Although it seems small on the outside, the inside is not cramped. The service is friendly so even if you have a bad game or two, it won't dampen your spirits.

Waverly Antiques is just waiting to help you find a new treasure. Waverly Antiques deal with antiques of every sort, from furniture and glass to the oddest sorts of collectable items. The staff is knowledgeable about their work and is willing to help you find what you are looking for. The store is located in the busiest section of town at 228 E. Emmitt Street in Waverly. You can contact Waverly Antiques at 1-740-947-2931.

Art is always a comfort, especially if it is in an air conditioned building like at Country Arbor Gardens. This art gallery is small compared to those of larger cities, but the visit is one not to skip. I believe that some, if not all, artworks are for sale. So you might decide to bring a piece of Pike County's heart home with you. The Country Arbor Gardens can be contacted at 1-740-947-7772.

If horseback riding is your cup of tea, then Tanglewood Acres Horse Camp is the place for you. If you have your own horse, then bring it with you and enjoy all the horse trails. Don't own a horse? That's okay. They have horses for rent. Each horse is safe and well mannered, and trained superbly. Tanglewood Acres Horse Camp is located at2779 Pike Lake Road and can be reached at 1-740-493-3142.

Be sure to check out the Guide to Waverly City to find all the other wonderful shopping and adventure sites. For good food, Quality Dining in Waverly, Ohio will show you where to go for when fast food is out of the question. And of course, A Review of Hotels in Piketon, Ohio will help get you set up for your vacation experience.

Of course, this is just a little of what Pike County, Ohio has to offer in the way of summer family fun. I hope you visit us soon.