Experience the Great Outdoors in Henry County!

If your heart races at the thought of getting away from it all and soaking in what nature has to offer…have we got a travel itinerary for you.  Henry County has the natural resources and good, clean, fresh air you won’t forget!  For all questions and help – call the Napoleon/Henry County Visitors Bureau at (419) 592-1786 or email us at hcncoc@ohiohenrycounty.com today!

1.  First and foremost, when people think outdoors in Henry County, they think of the Maumee River.  A beautiful, winding stretch of the Maumee flows right through the middle of the County.  21 straight, continuous miles of the Maumee River can take you away from the hectic, everyday world.  If it’s pleasure boating you enjoy or water skiing or tubing, you’ve found the right waterway for you.  The Maumee also offers some of the best stream fishing in Ohio.  For docking information Contact Us.  Also, plan to enjoy the Maumee from the banks at one of our many parks – family get-togethers or quiet walks along the river. 

2.  Yearning to get out on the Maumee in a kayak?  It’s an interesting and fun way to explore.  Mary Jane Thurston State Park near McClure just off of State Route 110 offers a kayak livery along with numerous other outdoor opportunities.  Boating, Camping, Fishing and Hunting, Picnicking and Hiking Trails are all waiting at Mary Jane Thurston for you to discover.  A limited number of camping cabins are available, as well.  Call early!

3.  If you’d rather stay on dry land, Henry County also features part of the Wabash Cannonball Trail beginning at the edge of Liberty Center and heading Northeast for 17 miles.  The Trail follows the former Norfolk Southern Rail line and takes you through some breathtaking countryside and wooded areas.  It provides non-motorized access to hikers, bikers, equestrians, and cross-country skiers. The 12 foot wide trail surface varies within the different jurisdictions, from asphalt to hard packed cinder ballast.  Explore at your own pace and enjoy!

4.  Staying in the Northeast portion of Henry County, The Maumee State Forest offers some of the most beautiful forest acres in the Midwest.  This area is a State Forest which means there are no picnic areas here, but if untouched forest area is what you are looking to explore, Maumee State offers acre after acre.  There is an All-Purpose Vehicle Area for snowmobiles, motorcycles and mountain bikes.  For more information on this area click the link above and follow the appropriate link. 

5.  Oak Openings in the Northeast corner of Henry County is another forest area and is designed to provide a glimpse at the habitats of the past.  This area has long been recognized by naturalists as one of Ohio’s preeminent natural regions because of its rich diversity of vegetation. The region harbors more rare species than any other of a similar size in the state and sustains two globally rare communities, oak savanna and wet prairie.  The Nature Conservancy lists Oak Openings among the 200 “Last Great Places on Earth.”   Oak Openings Metropark is just across the border in Lucas County.  Over 180 rare species can be found in the Oak Openings Region.  Birdwatchers should prepare for a wonderful trip with countless species living here.  It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature!

6.  If you’d like to relax at one of Henry County’s many municipal or village parks, Contact Us.  We have a park for your need – big or small.  We’ll send you to the appropriate contact to get your outdoors itch scratched!

7.  Don’t forget – Henry County is centrally located for all of your outdoor adventures.  Grab a map and you’ll probably find us right in the middle of all of your plans.  Go to our Lodging page for information on available options.  Use Napoleon and Henry County as your home base as you trek near and far!