Recreation

Jefferson County offers recreational venues and attractions both large and small that appeal to a wide variety of interests and ages.

Outdoor types can enjoy three city parks in Steubenville, the spacious Friendship Park in Smithfield, Fernwood State Forest in Bloomingdale and Jefferson Lake State Park in Richmond. Austin Lake Park and Campground near Toronto rounds out the wide selection of campgrounds in the county. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy six public and two private courses. Of course, with the Ohio River as a back drop, summertime recreation is never in question. Toronto is home to two private marinas with docking facilities as well as Newburg Landing which can accommodate both private and commercial watercraft.

Steubenville, the "City of Murals," attracts hundreds each year to view 26 gigantic depictions of life in the 1800's and early 1900's that grace the sides of buildings in the downtown business district. The Creegan animation factory, the nation's largest manufacturer of animated and costume characters, is also a favorite draw. But Steubenville is perhaps most well-known for it's famous son, Dean Martin, who was born there. Each year, thousands gather to celebrate his life and celebrity at the Dean Martin Festival.

Special events throughout the year are easy to find in Jefferson County. Fairs, festivals, community days and more are not only enjoyable but show again and again the pride that residents take in their hometowns. From the Greek Food & Old Fort Steuben Festivals in Steubenville to the Festival of the Arts in Toronto, community pride and volunteerism is everywhere.

Mingo and Wintersville each have their Community Days, Adena's Heritage Days and Richmond's Quaker Day and Festival In The Woods, the Jefferson County Fair, the Smithfield Applefest, Steubenville Farmer's Market, Unionport Apple Stirrin' Festival or the Mt. Pleasant Annual Quaker Village Tour - it seems there is never a season that isn't celebrated by one of the county's unique and proud communities.

Complete list of parks, golf courses, country clubs and other recreational areas coming soon!