Are you fascinated by the legend of Bigfoot? If so, you’ll be intrigued to learn that sightings of this elusive creature in Ohio date back to the 1700s. There have been dozens of sightings in and around Salt Fork State Park in Guernsey County, Ohio, since the mid-1980s.
Guernsey County invites you to see him for yourself! Explore Ohio’s largest state park, a destination where natural beauty meets local legend—perfect for both dedicated cryptozoologists and curious skeptics alike.
Experience Bigfoot After Dark
For a truly unforgettable adventure, join the park naturalist for the park’s monthly Bigfoot Night Hikes. These family-friendly, after-dark excursions take you along scenic trails where you’ll search for signs of the legendary creature while enjoying the sights and sounds of the forest at night.
Before you leave, be sure to stop by the lodge gift shop, where you’ll find an extensive selection of Bigfoot-themed souvenirs for all ages.
The Ohio Bigfoot Conference
Since 2005, the Ohio Bigfoot Conference (May) has become a must-attend event for enthusiasts of the unexplained. Hosted at Salt Fork Lodge within the park, this annual gathering draws speakers from across the country.
Hear from television personalities, researchers, academes and investigators as they share compelling stories, firsthand accounts and the latest findings in Bigfoot research. Beyond the presentations, visitors can enjoy a lively vendor fair featuring one of the largest selections of Bigfoot merchandise anywhere.
Run with Sasquatch
Looking for something more active? The Bigfoot-themed trail races at Salt Fork offer a one-of-a-kind outdoor challenge.
The summer Sasquatch trail races (June) feature 50K, 20-mile, and 10-mile distances across the park’s rugged terrain. With a scenic yet demanding 10.4-mile loop, runners—and even hikers—can take in the rolling hills at their own pace.
If you miss the summer event, don’t worry—the adventure continues in winter (December) with another round of 50K, 20-mile, and 10-mile races. It’s the perfect excuse for a seasonal getaway filled with fresh air, fun, and maybe even a mysterious sighting or two.
Make It a Getaway
Turn your Bigfoot adventure into a full staycation by booking a room at Salt Fork Lodge, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of the park. Special lodging discounts are often available during race weekends, making it easy to plan a memorable trip for the whole family.
Not far from the lodge is the brand-new Eco-Discovery Center (opened in 2025), dedicated to teaching children about conservation and sustainability. Bigfoot serves as a character guide throughout the building, highlighting fun facts and teaching visitors that, despite his big feet, he tries to keep his environmental footprint small. The exhibits engage visitors in an interactive journey through Salt Fork’s forest ecosystem to discover how everything in nature is connected.
Whether you’re hoping to spot something in the shadows or simply enjoy a unique outdoor experience, Guernsey County offers the perfect blend of folklore, fun and fresh air. Keep your eyes on the tree line—you never know what you might discover!
Find more family adventures in Guernsey County or plan a visit around our amazing events by exploring VisitGuernseyCounty.com.