Day Trips from Columbus
← All Columbus day tripsDay Trips from Columbus: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Columbus, OH. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Columbus
Big waterfall and swimming hole
36000-, 36050
Just 2 hrs 14 min from Columbus, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
Rockbridge, OH 43149
Just 1 hr 3 min from Columbus, rated 4.9 stars by 2,671 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Old Man's Cave
OH 43138, USA
Just 1 hr 3 min from Columbus, rated 4.9 stars by 930 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lower Waterfall
Logan, OH 43138
Just 1 hr 3 min from Columbus, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Just 53 min from Columbus, rated 4.8 stars by 1,751 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve
Heath, OH 43056
Just 52 min from Columbus, rated 4.8 stars by 1,665 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Brandywine Falls
Northfield, OH 44067
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Columbus, rated 4.8 stars by 5,607 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Waterfalls Trailhead
Cedarville, OH 45314
Just 57 min from Columbus, rated 4.8 stars by 259 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Gorge Metro Park
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Just 1 hr 59 min from Columbus, rated 4.7 stars by 3,176 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Greenville Falls State Scenic River Area
Covington, OH 45318
Just 1 hr 27 min from Columbus, rated 4.7 stars by 293 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Clifty Falls State Park
Madison, IN 47250
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Columbus, rated 4.7 stars by 5,219 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Massie's Creek Cascades (Waterfalls)
OH 45314, USA
Just 57 min from Columbus, rated 4.5 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Columbus
What are the best waterfalls near Columbus, OH?
The best waterfalls near Columbus range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Columbus?
Some waterfalls near Columbus have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Columbus?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Columbus are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Columbus?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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