Ohioans love the outdoors and what better time to renew that affection than Valentine's Day! The upcoming weekend offers a variety of outdoor-related activities to help reawaken a love of woods, waters and wildlife.

Both young and old will be drawn to Hocking Hills State Park on Saturday, February 11, for the annual Sweethearts' Hike. Hikers will leave the Ash Cave parking lot between 5 and 7 p.m. for a sundown stroll to one of Ohio most unique and breathtaking natural features - Ash Cave. A cozy bonfire and refreshments wait at the end of the half-hour hike.

A special holiday menu at the lodge awaits hikers at the conclusion of the Valentine Hike at Shawnee State Park on Saturday, February 11. Hikers should meet in the lodge lobby at 3 p.m. for a shuttle ride to the Harry Knighton Trailhead. A moderate 3.5-mile trek in the woods along both the Harry Knighton and Beach trails will lead hikers back to the lodge for a special (and optional) Valentine's Day dinner.

Discover everything fun the outdoors has to offer at the Columbus Sports, Vacation and Boat Show, February 9-12, at the Ohio Expo Center (state fairgrounds) in Columbus. Boat and recreational vehicle dealers, as well as vacation and travel advisors from around the country will be on hand with the latest innovations and ideas in recreation.

All Ohio State Park resort lodges and cottages offer off-season specials or romantic getaway packages for Valentine's Day. Bring your "honey" and enjoy entertainment and fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Resort lodges offering special Valentine's Day packages include Geneva in Ashtabula County, Salt Fork in Guernsey County, Maumee Bay in Lucas County and Deer Creek in Fayette and Pickaway counties.

For more information on Ohio State Parks resort lodges and cottages, follow the links from http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/lodging/