Alum Creek State Park Winter Lake Hikes & Nature Center

About this adventure

Located just north of Columbus in Delaware County, Alum Creek State Park encompasses 4,630 acres of rugged woodlands and a massive 3,387-acre reservoir that creates a breathtaking winter panorama. When snow falls, families can enjoy invigorating winter hikes along the scenic Bluffs Trail, which offers sweeping vistas over the ice-dusted waters where wintering gulls and bald eagles hunt. The heated Alum Creek Below Dam Nature Center is a warm, family-friendly oasis staffed by ODNR naturalists. Inside, children can discover live native Ohio animals—including corn snakes, box turtles, and salamanders—touch authentic beaver pelts, and participate in winter weekend junior naturalist crafts. Outside the nature center, a bird-feeding viewing station attracts vibrant cardinals, chickadees, and nuthatches, offering young visitors close-up wildlife encounters in a peaceful setting. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Paved parking lots and walkways around the dam and nature center are accessible; wooded dirt trails can be muddy or snow-packed, making baby carriers preferable for bluff hikes. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Heated Nature Center with wooden rocking chairs, educational book corners, and modern heated restrooms with infant changing tables. • Age Suitability: Ideal for all ages, from toddlers observing nature center critters to older youth exploring shoreline forest trails. • Sensory Tips: Crisp, fresh lakeside air with calming water and wind sounds; cozy, warm nature center provides a soothing and educational environment for curious kids.