Chilo Lock 34 Park

Chilo Lock 34 Park is located in Clermont County off of 52. Originally, this park was the location of one of the over 50 locks along the Ohio River boats used to navigate passage. The locks essentially turned the river into a series of lakes, ensuring the water level remained navigable. When the lock was decommissioned in the 1960’s (when the larger Meldahl Dam 2 miles away was built), Clermont County turned the land into a park and museum. Some original structures remain and they have created a riverwalk with informational stops explaining the site’s history.
In addition to the structures and museum, there are picnic tables, a boat ramp and dock, large grassy areas for picnics, a playground, a couple of yurts available for rent, and hiking trails with overlooks and bird blinds. The trails are great for an easy stroll, wide enough for two people to walk side by side, and very flat. The overlooks and bird blinds offer up great views of the Ohio River and adjacent Crooked Run Nature Preserve.
Overall, this park is a nice peaceful retreat for a picnic, a nice place to learn about some local history and a relaxing stroll through the woods.