The seclusion of Ohio’s Amish Country creates a calm and inviting atmosphere for many visitors. One advantage of being based in a more tucked-away part of the state is that it has fewer sources of light, allowing access to dark-sky zones. These are protected areas free of light pollution, allowing you to see the night sky clearly. In this blog, we’ll be looking over some of the best spots to stargaze out here in Ohio during your escape.
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In this Blog:
- Observatory Park – Montville
- Mohican State Park – Loudonville
- Fry Family Park – Magnolia
- John Glenn Astronomy Park – Logan
Mohican State Park – Loudonville
This state park, situated about 45 minutes from town, offers acres of wooded forest, covered bridges, and opportunities to see the magic of the stars. During the day at Mohican State Park, you can visit Pleasant Hill Lake to enjoy a nice swim or go fishing. Stay until dark to watch the night come alive at one of the area’s best stargazing sites. For the best vantage point, head around Mohican Fire Tower for the best open view of the sky.
Fry Family Park – Magnolia
Fry Family Park is one of two certified Dark Sky Zones in all of Ohio, making this site a must-see for any stargazing enthusiasts coming to visit. Located a little over an hour away from White Oak Inn, this park offers some of the best possible views of the night sky. If you do plan to visit this site, try to head over on a Tuesday or Thursday, as that’s when the park turns off its shelter lights to give guests an even better stargazing experience.
John Glenn Astronomy Park – Logan
One spot that’s worth the longer drive is the John Glenn Astronomy Park. Park officials update a clear-sky clock, helping guests choose the best times to stargaze. Light control is important here. Visitors should turn off headlights and other lights when entering. The park offers pristine night-sky viewing, plus an observatory and large telescope for closer looks.
Observatory Park – Montville
While this is another spot that’s a bit further out from the inn, but one you won’t want to miss. Recognized by the International Dark Sky Association, this park features over 1,100 acres of natural exploration, both high and low. Along with its many trails, Observatory Park also includes the Nassau Astronomical Station, which features one of the largest publicly accessible telescopes in the state. Make a stop at this site to see the stars anytime, or plan ahead, as they usually host stargazing events and presentations throughout the week.
Make Stargazing a Part of Your Amish Country Getaway
Featured: The Cherry Room
Explore these sites and more during your trip to Ohio’s Amish Country! Enjoy a slower-paced escape from the big cities. Complete your trip with a stay at White Oak Inn.
Stay in one of the curated rooms at our main inn, guest house, or some of our log cabin properties. Whatever you’re in the mood for, our Amish Country accommodations make it easy and convenient to explore all that the area has to offer. Our local staff works to ensure that you will make the most of your trip.
Save big when you book directly with White Oak Inn and enhance your trip with some of our vacation packages and add-ons!