Nature anytime
Ohio is renowned for having one of the best state park systems in the country and many of the 70-plus sites offer winter/early spring camping. Grab your gear or rent a cabin and immerse yourself in the lovely quiet of nature’s seasonal transition. Take in winter’s finale by appreciating the simple, structural beauty of bare trees, rock ridges, and hills. And revel in the first exquisite bits of springtime green.
Big country
Head over to Salt Fort State Park (14755 Cadiz Rd. Lore City, Ohio); it is the largest in Ohio and worth the three and a half hour, easy highway drive from Toledo. With over 17,000 acres of land and waterways, it offers both solitude and adventure within its glorious panoramic vastness. Jen Patrick, park camp coordinator, recommends a hike to Hosack Cave with it’s formations of “incredibly long and very beautiful icicles.” She further advises a walk on the Stone House Trail to see the early blooming wildflowers. Visit dnr.state.oh.us for all state park info and to reserve a camp site. Click on recreation at the top, then click on parks.
Does he exist?
While you’re visiting the Salt Fork, be on the lookout for Big Foot. Yes, that lovable, elusive hairy being has been spotted within the expansive acreage. Don’t miss the 25th annual Big Foot Conference at Salt Fort on Saturday, April 13 from 2-8 pm. Hosted by the Ohio Big Foot Organization, it is the oldest-running big foot conference in the world. $15 general admission tickets are available at the door. For more info, visit ohiobigfootconference.com
Shine on
The first day of spring 2013 (known as the vernal equinox — meaning equal parts daylight and darkness) begins in the northern hemisphere at 7:02 am on Wednesday, March 20. In conjunction with this seasonal change is the Earth Hour event on Saturday, March 23. Across the globe people will turn off their lights from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm to conserve energy and unite in a powerful effort to save the planet. Visit the incredibly hip global website earthhour.org and be prepared to be inspired and uplifted by the literally glowing previews of planned celebrations. Take the awesome “I will if you will challenge.” So Toledo City Paper Readers, what about it? — I will if you will …
