Chillicothe was founded in 1812 and served as the capital of Ohio from 1812 to 1816. The town was originally known as "the Big Miami" after the river that runs through it. Later it was renamed in 1878 in honor of Chillicothe, Illinois, which a fire had recently destroyed. Over the years, Chillicothe has played several important roles in Ohio history. It was home to the first bank in the state, and it was also the birthplace of both Rutherford B. Hayes and James A. Garfield, who would both go on to become presidents of the United States.
In the city is the Ross County Historical Society Museum, which contains artifacts from early settlers and Indians. Nearby is the stone mansion known as Adena State Memorial, which was constructed around 1805-1807 by Ohio governor and U.S. senator Thomas Worthington. The Chillicothe Gazette is housed in a replica of the first statehouse and runs a printing museum. The construction of the Ohio, Erie Canal, the Marietta and Cincinnati (now Baltimore and Ohio) Railroad increased the distribution of local farm produce during 1852. In addition to heavy trucks and automotive parts, papermaking has been a significant industry since 1812. Chillicothe had a branch campus of Ohio University in 1946. This city was once a major center of industry, with companies like Champion spark plugs and Liggett Myers tobacco based in the town.
Today, Chillicothe is a charming small town with a rich history. Visit Adena Mansion and Gardens Historic Site, a stately estate listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Take in the views at Yoctangee Park, or explore the Ohio River Museum. There are several unique shops and restaurants to visit and fun seasonal festivals like the Chillicothe Balloon Festival. The city is also home to several annual events like the Chili Cook-Off and the Ohio Valley Old Time Music Festival. Visit Los Mariachis for delicious Mexican cuisine, or take a stroll through the historic downtown district.
Campgrounds Near Chillicothe, Ohio
The year-round Sun Valley Campground is only 6 miles west of Chillicothe. Enjoy the game room, basketball court, and pond for swimming and fishing. You have access to the site's dump station. Enjoy one of the full-hookup, back-in, and pull-through sites. You will appreciate the spacious Sun Valley Campground, which has room for any size RV and is big rig friendly.
Lake Hill Campground is a 65-acre park situated 13.1 miles from Chillicothe, Ohio. You will love the 4-acre spring-fed lake, the sandy beach, and the swimming hole. This campground has 57 full-hookup sites, a shower, and good cell reception. You can also enjoy hiking on the trails with your pet as company. They do charge a minimum of $27 per night.
You will love Shawnee Valley Campground, which is an eight-minute drive from Chillicothe and offers on-site kayak rentals. You can take pleasure in camping at night and daytime river paddling with family and friends. The campground has a strong cell signal, a shower is available, and allows your four-legged companion to accompany you.
State Parks Near Chillicothe, Ohio
Great Seal State Park is 5 miles from Chillicothe, where you can enjoy the lake views and picnic. The Great Seal of Ohio is carved in the sandstone cliff and overlooks Raccoon Creek. There are 9 miles of trails, including a loop that passes through the massive sandstone caves. This park has many campgrounds to reserve a spot for yourself and your pet. During winter, you can visit for hunting and cross-country skiing.
Visit Scioto Trail State Park, which is 13.4 miles from Chillicothe and is surrounded by rolling hills. The most popular attraction in the park is the Scioto River, which runs through the center of the park. The river is a beautiful sight and offers excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, and canoeing. Explore Hocking Hills region, which is full of cascading waterfalls and over 20 miles of trails. Hopewell Culture National Historic Park is also located within the park and is home to earthen mounds built by Native Americans. The park also offers various amenities such as camping sites, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
Tar Hollow State Park is 22 miles from Chillicothe and features 640 acres of rolling hills, forests, and lakes. The park is home to many species of wildlife, including the timber rattlesnake, a protected species in Ohio. Enjoy scenic views from the 20 miles of trails or go camping at one of the campsites. Other activities include fishing for smallmouth bass and catfish in Tar Hollow Lake, hunting various game species, and visiting the Pioneer Village. Enjoy a picnic at one of the many shelters, or take a hike to the highest point in Ross County for stunning vistas.
National Sites Near Chillicothe, Ohio
Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is located 59 miles from Chillicothe. The monument is dedicated to Colonel Charles Young, the third African American to graduate from the United States Military Academy in New York. It is part of the National Park System and offers visitors a chance to explore the history and legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers. Learn about the history of African American military service and explore the grounds, which include a replica fort, monument plaza, and interpretive exhibits.
Head to Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, which is 78 miles from Chillicothe. This park preserves the history of Wilbur and Orville Wright and their invention of the world's first successful airplane. Explore the Wright Cycle Company, Wright Brothers Aviation Center, and The Henry Ford Museum and learn about the Wright brothers and their many contributions to aviation. Stop by the Huffman Prairie Interpretative Center to learn more about the Wright Brothers' work on powered flight and admire the replica of their historical plane. The historical park also offers various amenities, including picnic areas, camping sites, and trails.
Learn about the accomplishments of the 20th President of the United States by visiting the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, which is 209 miles from Chillicothe. This national site offers visitors the chance to explore the life and legacy of James Garfield. Explore the 19th-century Victorian mansion and its grounds, which include a horse barn, carriage house, and two greenhouses. Take in the beautiful gardens and learn about Garfield's career as a soldier, lawyer, congressman, and president. There are also interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a museum store.
National Forests Near Chillicothe, Ohio
Wayne National Forest is located 60 miles from Chillicothe and allows visitors to explore over a million acres of forest. Enjoy a day of hiking and biking along the trails, or go camping at one of the 41 campsites. Take part in hunting and fishing in designated areas and explore the forest by horseback. You will admire the various species of wildlife that call this area home, such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and many more. The forest also features two play areas for children, with one being wheelchair accessible.
Visit Daniel Boone National Forest, over 708,000 acres, located 244 miles from Chillicothe. There are several streams and rivers in the area, as well as a variety of scenic outdoor activities to enjoy. Explore over 600 miles of trails perfect for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking. You can fish on the many lakes scattered throughout the area or go camping at one of the campsites. There are several picnic areas, birding sites, and observation points perfect for taking in the natural beauty of the forest.
Explore the 919,000-acre Monongahela National Forest, located 269 miles from Chillicothe. This forest has a variety of recreational activities available, including camping, wildlife watching, fishing, and much more. You will love exploring the various trails, some of which are perfect for horseback riding and mountain biking. Take part in fishing on one of the many lakes and streams in the area, or picnic at one of the many sites throughout the forest. The visitor center is the ideal spot to learn more about the area and get maps of the trails.
