Lake Hope State Park

A secluded 3,223-acre park in Vinton County, Ohio's least populated county. Lake Hope (120 acres) sits in the Zaleski State Forest, surrounded by hills that were once strip-mined and have since recovered into beautiful second-growth forest. The dining lodge serves some of the best state park food in Ohio. Excellent fall foliage — the drive through Vinton County is a hidden gem. Hiking trails connect to the 30-mile Zaleski State Forest backpacking trail. Great for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.