10 Secluded Towns In Ohio

Big cities in Ohio, including Cleveland and Columbus, draw the most visitors with their glitz and glamor. However, the Buckeye State harbors other lesser-visited destinations that travelers will be happy to discover. Hidden from the urban bustle and endowed with rich natural landscapes, these isolated getaways promise a fresh, off-the-beaten-path experience. Whether one seeks peaceful mountainside escapes of Nelsonville, rural farmland vistas, or riverside villages surrounded by acres of forest like Peninsula, these hidden gems allow tourists to fully unwind in solitude.

Scattered across diverse ecoregions, each small community maintains historic downtowns and backcountry barely altered by modern development. Below are quintessentially secluded towns in Ohio for nature lovers, history buffs, or those aiming to leave the crowds behind for serenity in the pristine backcountry.

Nelsonville

Situated in the Hocking Hills region, this Athens County community is cut off by the dense woodlands and towering cliffs of the surrounding Wayne National Forest. Riding on the vintage Hocking Valley Scenic Valley Railway allows vacationers to explore the lovely wilderness during a leisurely sightseeing excursion. The vast forest invites complete immersion into the great outdoors, with innumerable opportunities for hikers, campers, birdwatchers, and other exciting adventures.

While roaming the open spaces, guests can discover curious local history at Robbins Crossing Historical Village. This rustic hub in the middle of Hocking Hills reenacts life in the region during the mid-1800s. It hosts several annual events celebrating Appalachian crafts, arts, and culture, including the Nelsonville Music Festival.

Belpre

This Washington County village in southeast Ohio maintains a low-key profile along the banks of the Ohio River, enveloped by vast farmland and nature preserves. Its exquisite scenery consists of spectacular vistas of the Ohio River, which first-timers can soak up from behind the wheel along the Ohio River Scenic Byway. This delightful route straddles the river's course, through lush forests, and over breathtaking hills to deliver an unforgettable journey. Vacationers can test their technique at the Oxbow Golf Course, whose challenging holes complement the location's beautiful landscapes and tranquil rural setting.

Remember to check out Belpre's storied background at the Belpre Historical Society and the Farmers Castle Museum. The sites grant insight into bygone eras, such as the Underground Railroad. They exhibit diverse artifacts from different periods, including military uniforms from the 1800s.

Caldwell

Deserted rural roads lead to this solitary Noble County village of about 2,000 permanent residents. Situated 23 miles from Marietta, Caldwell is a prime spot for ardent adventurers. Guests will find a lovely setting to unwind at Thorla-McKee Park, which presents adorable nature passages, playgrounds, and picnic areas amid unprecedented tranquility.

However, the recreational options at the larger Wolf Run State Park are more diverse and exciting. Covering at least 1,300 acres, the reserve is a hub for hikers, campers, and picnickers. It also harbors the 220-acre Wolf Run Lake, which fuels activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking. After a demanding day exploring the great outdoors, you can relax and restock at the welcoming Wolf Run Drive-In. The eatery serves delicious comfort dishes like cheeseburgers and ice cream.

Peninsula

Nestled bang in the middle of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Peninsula seems cut off from civilization. This tiny village boasts rich natural landscapes punctuated by dense forests, dramatic cliff faces, and shiny waters of the Cuyahoga River. Hikers have endless routes along which to discover the park, highlighted by the Ledges Overlook Trail, which culminates in a quiet viewpoint, delivering sweeping panoramas of the wilderness.

Those visiting in the cold season can find remarkable skiing slopes at Brandywine Ski Resort. The area features 70 acres of skiable terrain, with 19 trails challenging seasoned skiers with a 240-foot vertical drop. Meanwhile, Peninsula has a modest downtown with lovely points of interest, such as Peninsula Village Antiques. This cool spot sells charming collectibles from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Gloucester

Undulating hills with lush woodlands and scattered farms define the lonesome environment of this Athen County hamlet. Gloucester's proximity to Burr Oak State Park makes it a haven for nature lovers, exuding rustic country charm amid the 2,500 acres of valley farms and wooded hills. It has a developed campground where you can get the complete outdoor experience and provides a habitat for numerous birds and little mammals.

Gloucester is also home to the Tom Jenkins Dam, built across the Sunday Creek. The resulting reservoir is a recreation hub, fueling water-based fun like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Golf enthusiasts can test their swing at Forest Hills Golf Course, which offers an easy challenge for all skill levels and a tranquil environment tailored for the game.

Logan

Hidden deep in the Hocking Hills area, on the scenic banks of the Hocking River, Logan is one of the most adventurous towns in Ohio. The village boasts numerous natural gems, highlighted by the Hocking Hills State Park. This storybook wilderness bordering the Hocking State Forest invites explorers to discover waterfalls, rock formations, and hidden caves along calm walking trails. One of the most famous routes in the reserve leads to Old Man's Cave, where a rugged gorge with a gorgeous waterfall dripping down endears itself to nature photographers.

Logan is known for its countless canoe liveries, which present relaxed adventures on the flowing waters of the Hocking River. Those who fancy a ride can charter a vessel from Hocking Hills Adventures for a pleasant excursion.

Utica

Travelers can get a taste of the isolated rural lifestyle in this tiny village along the Licking River bank. Utica is a quintessential small town with about 2,000 residents who enjoy cozy green spaces like Miller Park. Serene and uncrowded, this is a popular spot for relaxation, with several picnic areas from where you watch people play sports and children play around. Legend Hills Orchards is another fabulous escape in the rolling landscapes of Licking County. The farm sprawls more than 130 acres and grows apples, peaches, and other vegetables to supply the townspeople with fresh and healthy groceries.

Meanwhile, you can't leave Utica without a delicious scoop of ice cream from Velvet Ice Cream. Housed in the historic Ye Olde Mill, which has been a mainstay in the region since 1817, the establishment draws over 150,000 annual visitors with its sumptuous cold treats.

Chagrin Falls

Despite being under 30 miles from Cleveland, Chagrin Falls feels worlds apart from the bustling metropolis thanks to its rich rural surroundings and small-town flair. This is best exemplified by the stunning waterfall in the heart of its downtown area. The delightful gem is always teeming, with first-timers clamoring to get a photo next to it. Locals demonstrate their appreciation for the arts at different venues, led by the Chagrin Valley Little Theatre. This tiny yet charming stop is one of the country's oldest community theaters and, since 1930, has treated audiences to musicals, concerts, plays, and other live productions.

Escape to the open will bring you to the expansive prairies and woodlands of Frohring Meadows. Covering 298 acres, it has deserted pathways for hikers and a lovely butterfly garden in a chilled-out setting.

Put-In-Bay

Small-town Ohio doesn't get more lonesome than this adorable location on South Bass Island. Surrounded by the vast waters of Lake Erie and domiciled by less than 200 residents, Put-in-Bay oozes holiday vibes. It is home to South Bass Island State Park, which grants access to the sandy shores overlooking the blue lake waters and opportunities for anglers, picnickers, and campers across its 33-acre coverage.

The Put-in-Bay Tour Train introduces newcomers to the quaint downtown area through a laid-back sightseeing excursion in an open tram winding through the city's major streets. A resourceful guide delivers enlightening narrations about the different points of interest along the tour route. Meanwhile, one of the best places to explore on foot is Crystal Cave, considered the world's largest geode. After the unique underground adventure, you can unwind with a glass of wine at Heineman's Winery.

Kelleys Island

Kelleys Island is another getaway in the middle of Lake Erie. It was formed by the action of a glacier on dolomite and limestone, and this distinct physical feature remains visible at the Glacial Grooves. The site displays 400-foot-long grooves sinking 35 feet into a limestone bedrock and embedded with various marine fossils. It was formed about 18,000 years ago, and the fossils were deposited almost 400 million years back.

The town invites newcomers to indulge in various recreation at Kelleys Island State Park. This 677-acre space is where people camp, hike, boat, and fish in Lake Erie. Despite its seclusion, the island offers several urban conveniences at Kelleys Island General Store. In this casual shopping outlet, you can find everything from snacks and beer to household items and other goods.

Final Thought

Whether seeking peaceful refuge on Kelleys Island, far from mainland hubs amid Lake Erie's waters or drawn to Logan's scenic isolation in quintessential Hocking Hills, visitors to these secluded towns in Ohio can expect to discover destinations unspoiled by commercialism. Enveloped by picturesque natural settings and protected historically rural designs, getaways like these indulge the traveling spirit seeking solitude, authentic charm, and reconnection with nature away from crowds. Their innate serenity makes them the perfect getaway in the United States to rest, rejuvenate, and reinvigorate.