Scioto Grove Metro Park - a tree with yellow leaves
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Scioto Grove Metro Park

4.7
·558 reviews·Grove City, United States

A 620-acre riverfront park featuring a thrilling fire tower, scenic trails, and kayaking opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Ideal for fire tower climbs

CrowdMedium
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Scioto Grove Metro Park - a tree with yellow leaves

Scioto Grove Metro Park

Best Time

Spring mornings

Ideal for fire tower climbs

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 620-acre riverfront park featuring a thrilling fire tower, scenic trails, and kayaking opportunities.

4.7
(558 reviews)

"Climb the fire tower for amazing city views and enjoy a great float down the Scioto River!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Climb the Fire Tower!

111 steps to an amazing view. Great for kids facing fears!

🎣 Catfish Love Chicken Liver

For river fishing, try chicken liver for catfish.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Keystone Fire Tower

Keystone Fire Tower

Central Park Area

Climb 111 steps for breathtaking views of downtown Columbus. A true adventure!

River Kayaking & Fishing

River Kayaking & Fishing

Scioto River

Explore the river by kayak or try your luck fishing for catfish. Scenic and adventurous!

Forested Trails

Forested Trails

Various trailheads

Wander through beautiful forested paths, a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt trails.

Playground & Picnic Areas

Playground & Picnic Areas

Near main entrance

Perfect for families, with a playground, picnic shelters, and grills for a fun day out.

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Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Fire Tower

Don't miss the 82-foot Keystone Fire Tower! With 111 steps, it's a thrilling climb offering panoramic views of downtown Columbus on clear days. It's a popular spot for families and adventurers alike, so be prepared for potential crowds, especially on weekends. TikTokInstagram

River Adventures Await

Scioto Grove offers fantastic opportunities for kayaking and fishing. The river can be low at times, so check conditions before you go. Catfish are a popular catch, often lured with chicken liver. Reddit Enjoy the scenic float from the upper launch to Mackey Ford. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Ideal for fire tower climbs
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Great for river floats
Crowd
High
When
Clear Fall days
Why
Best city views from tower
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

NO ONE knows this is the best spot to watch a sunset in Columbus… Scioto Grove Metro Park is not only a beautiful sanctuary with tons of trails and scenic pathways, but also home to a 100 foot tall fire tower that you can climb for UNBEATABLE views! 🌳 Scioto Grove Metro Park 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123 #bestviews #bestview #sciotogrovemetropark #sciotogrovemetropark #columbus #columbus...
@stepoutcolumbus
10.4K likes • 240.2K views

🎯 Climb the Fire Tower!

111 steps to an amazing view. Great for kids facing fears! TikTokInstagram

🎣 Catfish Love Chicken Liver

For river fishing, try chicken liver for catfish. Reddit

Are you climbing this 82ft fire tower? This tower is located in Grove City at Scioto Grove Metro Park📍 Experience the fire tower climb or one of the many other activities this park has to offer! 🏞️ More than 7 miles of trails (8 trails including 2 archery courses) 🧺 Picnic areas 🛝 Kids play area 🏹 Archery courses #sciotogrovemetropark #columbus #firetower #metropark #grovecity
@ginaventola.realtor
693 likes • 13K views
🎥 POV: You told your kids you’re just going for a “little nature walk”… 😅 🌲 Surprise! You’re climbing the Keystone Fire Tower—an 82-foot-tall historic lookout with 111 steps to conquer. Perfect for helping your little ones face their fear of heights (and maybe yours too). 📍 Scioto Grove Metro Park, Grove City, OH 🆓 Free summer adventure 👣 111 steps to the top 🌆 Panoramic views of Columbus and th...
do_u_know_misstee
4 likes • 250 views

🛶 Check River Levels

Water can be low, especially after dry spells. Plan accordingly! Instagram

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Trails are varied: paved, gravel, and dirt. Reddit

Reach new heights as you climb the fire tower at Scioto Grove Metro Park! #cbusmetroparks
cbusmetroparks
160 likes • 5.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Climb the Fire Tower!

111 steps to an amazing view. Great for kids facing fears! TikTokInstagram

🎣 Catfish Love Chicken Liver

For river fishing, try chicken liver for catfish. Reddit

🛶 Check River Levels

Water can be low, especially after dry spells. Plan accordingly! Instagram

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Trails are varied: paved, gravel, and dirt. Reddit

👃 Be Prepared for Odors

Occasional sewer-like smells near the highway. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(558 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Scioto Grove Metro Park for its diverse offerings, from the thrilling fire tower climb with city views to enjoyable river activities like kayaking and fishing. The well-maintained trails and ample picnic areas are also highlights. However, some guests note occasional highway noise and unpleasant odors near certain areas.

"It’s a great park with several different areas. There is an archery, disc golf course, a launching area for kayaking. Several overnight campsites, and lots and lots of picnic space there are grills covered areas shelters. The trails are very clean, paved and gravel. The best part was getting to go up the lookout tower and see downtown Columbus on a clear day."

Michelle Lesher

"It was an incredible adventure, filled with a wide variety of amazing animals. Have a wonderful day and you might even spot something new to you!"

King C

"Ponds and picnic areas. Fishing (release). Trails; paved, gravel, and dirt."

Shelley Brooks

What People Like

Fire tower views
River kayaking
Clean trails

What People Dislike

Highway noise
Occasional odors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Scioto Grove Metro Park is located at 5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available throughout the park. Instagram

Public transportation options to Scioto Grove Metro Park are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access. Check local COTA bus routes for potential connections, though direct service may not be available. Reddit

The park features a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt trails, making it suitable for walking, running, and biking. Maps are available at the park entrance and online to help you explore different areas like the fire tower and river access points. Reddit

No, Scioto Grove Metro Park is free to enter and explore. Enjoy the natural beauty and amenities without any admission cost. TikTok

Yes, Scioto Grove Metro Park is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on trails and in most areas, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Scioto Grove Metro Park is typically open from dawn to dusk daily. However, specific facilities like restrooms or shelters may have different hours. It's always a good idea to check the official Metroparks website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

No, there are no tickets required to climb the Keystone Fire Tower at Scioto Grove Metro Park. It's a free attraction available to all visitors during park hours. TikTokInstagram

Scioto Grove Metro Park occasionally hosts events and programs. Check the Columbus and Franklin County Metroparks website for any upcoming activities, guided walks, or workshops. Reddit

Yes, picnic shelters at Scioto Grove Metro Park can be reserved in advance for gatherings and events. This is highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, to guarantee your spot. Reddit

Yes, Scioto Grove Metro Park offers overnight campsites for a more immersive nature experience. Reservations are typically required, so plan ahead if you wish to camp. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The iconic Keystone Fire Tower is a must-do for its incredible views. The Scioto River offers kayaking and fishing opportunities, and the park's extensive network of forested trails is perfect for nature walks. TikTokInstagramReddit

You might spot a variety of wildlife, including eagles, various bird species, and potentially deer. The park's diverse habitats support a rich ecosystem. Reddit

Some of the paved trails at Scioto Grove Metro Park are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The gravel and dirt trails may be more challenging. Reddit

The park offers picnic shelters with grills, restrooms, a playground, disc golf course, archery range, and kayak launch areas. Reddit

Cell service can be spotty in certain areas of Scioto Grove Metro Park, especially deeper within the forested sections. It's advisable to download offline maps or inform someone of your plans before heading out. Reddit

🍽️ 🎣 Food & Dining

There are no restaurants located directly within Scioto Grove Metro Park. Visitors are encouraged to pack their own food and utilize the park's picnic areas and grills. Reddit

Scioto Grove has numerous picnic areas, many with shelters and grills, scattered throughout the park. The areas near the playground and river access points are popular choices for families and groups. Reddit

Yes, fishing is permitted in the Scioto River at Scioto Grove Metro Park. Popular catches include catfish, and anglers often use chicken liver as bait. Reddit

The nearest dining options are located a short drive away in Grove City or Columbus. You'll find a variety of fast-food and casual dining restaurants in these areas. Reddit

Water fountains are typically available at main facilities like restrooms and picnic shelters. It's always a good idea to bring your own water bottle, especially during warmer months. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit of the Keystone Fire Tower offers stunning panoramic views, especially on clear days. The riverbanks, forested trails, and the playground area also provide picturesque backdrops. TikTokInstagram

Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful natural light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the fire tower views are impressive regardless of the time. Reddit

Drone usage policies can vary. It's essential to check the Columbus and Franklin County Metroparks regulations regarding drone operation within their parks to ensure compliance. Reddit

Keep an eye out for wildlife like eagles, and during certain seasons, you might find interesting mushrooms or pawpaw trees. The contrast between the natural landscape and the distant city skyline from the tower is also a unique shot. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for general exploration. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial. For the fire tower views, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive scenery. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Scioto Grove Metro Park is a fantastic destination for families. The Keystone Fire Tower is a major draw, offering an exciting climb with a rewarding view that kids often love. TikTok The park also features a playground and numerous picnic shelters with grills, making it ideal for a family day out. Reddit Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited. The varied trails also provide opportunities for easy nature walks suitable for younger children. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Paddlers

For those who love being on the water, Scioto Grove is a gem. The Scioto River is perfect for kayaking, with a convenient launch point for longer floats. Instagram Fishing is also popular, with catfish being a common target. Redditors suggest using chicken liver as effective bait. Reddit Be sure to check river conditions before your trip, as water levels can fluctuate. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

With over 600 acres of forested land, Scioto Grove offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers. Explore the diverse hiking trails, ranging from paved paths to more rugged dirt routes. Reddit Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and potentially deer. The park's natural beauty, especially the mature trees and riverfront, provides a serene backdrop for a refreshing walk or hike. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Keystone Fire Tower

The Keystone Fire Tower is undoubtedly the star attraction at Scioto Grove Metro Park. Standing at an impressive 82 feet tall, this historic lookout offers a unique adventure for visitors of all ages. With 111 steps to climb, it's a rewarding challenge that leads to spectacular panoramic views of the Columbus skyline on clear days. TikTokInstagram It's a fantastic spot for families looking for an engaging activity and a chance to conquer any fears of heights. TikTok Be prepared for it to be a popular spot, especially during peak times. Reddit

Exploring the Scioto River

Scioto Grove Metro Park provides excellent access to the Scioto River, making it a prime destination for kayaking and fishing. The park features an upper canoe/kayak launch that allows for scenic floats downstream. Instagram Many visitors enjoy paddling several miles, often taking around 2.5 hours to reach areas like the Mackey Ford Wildlife area. Instagram It's important to note that river levels can vary, and during drier periods, the water may be low in spots, though typically not requiring portages. Instagram

Trail Network and Nature

The park boasts a network of forested trails that cater to various preferences, including paved, gravel, and dirt paths. Reddit These trails wind through the park's 620 acres, offering opportunities for hiking, jogging, and nature observation. Visitors have reported spotting interesting mushrooms and large pawpaw trees along the routes. Reddit While the trails are generally well-maintained, the mix of surfaces means comfortable footwear is recommended. Reddit

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