Ohio is home to a variety of communities that offer peace and quiet away from urban life. From wooded havens to rolling countryside retreats, these secluded neighborhoods provide residents with privacy, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life.
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, explore these ten tranquil spots that showcase the serene side of the Buckeye State.
10. Kelleys Island – A Private Island Escape in Erie County
Kelleys Island, located in Lake Erie, is a secluded residential community with an approximate population of 300 full-time residents. This peaceful island is known for its stunning waterfront views, nature preserves, and a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching.
The island’s primary industries revolve around tourism, with small businesses catering to visitors who arrive during the summer months. Despite its popularity in warmer seasons, Kelleys Island remains quiet and remote during the fall and winter, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude.
With no bridges connecting it to the mainland, access is limited to ferries or private boats, enhancing its sense of exclusivity. The island’s wooded areas, limestone cliffs, and scenic shoreline create a picturesque and tranquil setting for residents.
Where is Kelleys Island?
Kelleys Island is located in Lake Erie, north of Sandusky, Ohio, and is part of Erie County. Its isolation stems from being completely surrounded by water, requiring residents and visitors to take a ferry from Marblehead or Port Clinton to reach it.
The island has minimal vehicle traffic, with many people using golf carts or bicycles for transportation. To visit, travelers can take the Kelleys Island Ferry, which operates seasonally, or access the island via private boat for a more exclusive arrival experience.
9. South Bloomingville – A Hidden Gem in Hocking County
South Bloomingville is a small, unincorporated community nestled in the heart of Hocking County, with a population of fewer than 300 residents. Known for its proximity to Hocking Hills State Park, it offers endless outdoor recreation, including hiking, rock climbing, and exploring scenic waterfalls.
The local economy is largely supported by tourism, with small rental cabins and nature lodges catering to visitors. Despite the seasonal influx of travelers, South Bloomingville remains quiet and remote, especially outside of peak tourist months.
Its dense forests and rugged terrain create a natural barrier from larger towns and urban areas. Residents enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle with little traffic, making it an excellent location for those seeking privacy and immersion in nature.
Where is South Bloomingville?
South Bloomingville is located in southern Hocking County, about 55 miles south of Columbus, Ohio. The area’s seclusion is enhanced by the winding rural roads and heavily wooded surroundings, which give it a deep-forest feel.
It is accessible via State Route 56, which connects to U.S. Route 33, making it a scenic but quiet retreat. Despite being within an hour’s drive of Columbus, the region’s geography ensures it remains a peaceful and undisturbed community.
8. Rockbridge – Remote Living in the Hocking Hills
Rockbridge is a small, unincorporated community in Hocking County with a population of around 200 people. It is best known for its proximity to Hocking Hills State Park, offering residents access to world-class hiking trails, waterfalls, and caves.
Tourism is a key part of the local economy, with vacation rentals, bed-and-breakfasts, and small businesses providing services to visitors. Unlike larger tourist destinations, Rockbridge remains secluded due to its winding backroads, forested areas, and lack of commercial development.
The rugged hills and lush scenery make it a peaceful place to live, away from the fast pace of city life. Many properties are situated on large, wooded lots, ensuring privacy and minimal noise pollution.
Where is Rockbridge?
Rockbridge is located just north of Logan, Ohio, along U.S. Route 33 in Hocking County. Its seclusion comes from its surrounding forested hills and lack of major infrastructure, preserving its small-community charm.
To get there, visitors take U.S. Route 33 from Columbus and turn onto State Route 374, leading into the heart of the Hocking Hills region. The area’s limited development and deep-wood atmosphere contribute to its reputation as a private, hidden retreat.
7. Meigs Township – Peaceful Countryside in Muskingum County
Meigs Township, located in Muskingum County, is a rural, unincorporated area with a small population of just over 500 residents. It is surrounded by rolling farmland, thick forests, and winding country roads, making it one of the most peaceful places in the county.
The local economy is largely agricultural, with many residents operating small farms or ranches. There are no major commercial centers or industries contributing to the township’s quiet, off-the-grid feel. The area’s seclusion is reinforced by its vast open spaces and minimal traffic, offering an escape from urban congestion.
Life in Meigs Township is slow-paced, with residents enjoying wide-open landscapes and beautiful sunsets over the countryside.
Where is Meigs Township?
Meigs Township is located in eastern Muskingum County, about 70 miles east of Columbus, Ohio. Its seclusion is due to its distance from major highways and its vast rural landscape.
The best way to access the township is by taking Interstate 70 east to Zanesville, then following local county roads into the heart of Meigs Township. The township’s rolling hills and agricultural setting make it a quiet, private haven for those seeking rural living.
6. Big Darby Creek – A Scenic Hideaway Near Columbus
Big Darby Creek is a quiet, nature-focused community located in Franklin County, known for its scenic river views and conservation efforts. The area has a small population, with many homes situated on large wooded lots or near the river.
Residents enjoy kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the protected waterways, making it a dream location for nature lovers. There are no major industries here, as the focus is on preserving the natural landscape and maintaining a peaceful environment.
The creek’s designation as a state and national scenic river helps limit commercial development, ensuring the area remains pristine and quiet. This combination of conservation and low-density housing makes Big Darby Creek an ideal secluded neighborhood.
Where is Big Darby Creek?
Big Darby Creek is located west of Columbus, Ohio, stretching through Franklin and Madison Counties. Its seclusion is due to its protected natural status and the surrounding forests and wetlands. The area can be accessed via U.S. Route 40 or U.S. Route 42, with local roads leading to residential properties.
The lack of commercial activity and its emphasis on nature conservation help keep Big Darby Creek a peaceful retreat despite its proximity to Columbus.
5. Salt Creek – Tranquil Living in Hocking County
Salt Creek Township in Hocking County is known for its tranquil living amidst natural barriers. Home to around 1,000 residents, it offers large rural properties surrounded by forests and rolling hills. The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with proximity to Hocking Hills State Park, famous for its hiking trails, caves, and waterfalls.
Residents enjoy a peaceful environment where wildlife sightings are common and the night skies are clear. The township’s sparse population and natural surroundings make it perfect for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Salt Creek?
Located in southeastern Ohio, Salt Creek Township is about 60 miles south of Columbus. It is accessible via U.S. Route 33 and State Route 56, leading into the heart of Hocking County. The rugged terrain and dense forests contribute to its secluded feel and natural beauty.
Visitors can reach Salt Creek by taking U.S. Route 33 southeast from Columbus, then following State Route 56 into the township. Its remote location and proximity to natural attractions make it a hidden treasure for nature lovers.
4. Pike Lake – A Hidden Forest Retreat in Pike County
Pike Lake is a small, forested community near Pike Lake State Park, known for its secluded cabins, private homes, and untouched wilderness. With a population of fewer than 300 residents, it offers solitude and a deep connection to nature.
Outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping are popular among both residents and visitors. There are no major industries in the area, as the land remains largely undeveloped apart from state park facilities and a few small businesses catering to travelers.
Its seclusion is heightened by its location within a dense forest, where wildlife sightings are common, and traffic is minimal. The peaceful surroundings make it an ideal retreat for those looking to disconnect from city life.
Where is Pike Lake?
Pike Lake is located in Pike County, about 80 miles south of Columbus, Ohio. Its seclusion is due to the dense forests and winding backroads that surround the area.
Visitors can access Pike Lake via State Route 124, which leads to the park entrance and nearby homes. The area’s isolation and natural beauty make it a favorite for those who seek a quiet, private lifestyle.
3. Hocking Hills Hideaways
The Hocking Hills region in Hocking County is renowned for its secluded hideaways amid rolling hills and dense forests. The area features scattered large-lot homes that provide solitude and a close connection to nature.
With a sparse population, residents enjoy breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and exploring caves. Attractions such as Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave are local gems that offer unique experiences.
The region is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the tranquility of rural living.
Where is Hocking Hills?
Located about 50 miles southeast of Columbus, the Hocking Hills region is accessible via U.S. Route 33. Its rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and gorges make the geography particularly interesting and a draw for tourists and residents alike.
Visitors can reach Hocking Hills by taking U.S. Route 33 southeast from Columbus, then following local signs to various parks and attractions. The area’s natural beauty and seclusion make it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful hideaway.
2. Whipple – A Peaceful Countryside Retreat in Washington County
Whipple is a small, unincorporated community in Washington County, offering a secluded lifestyle surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. With a population of just a few hundred residents, it provides a quiet escape from city life while still maintaining access to essential amenities in nearby Marietta.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of southeastern Ohio. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and small businesses, with no large commercial or industrial presence.
The seclusion of Whipple is enhanced by its rural setting, where homes are spaced far apart and situated along scenic country roads. With minimal traffic and a tight-knit community, it is an ideal spot for those seeking privacy and a slower pace of life.
Where is Whipple?
Whipple is located in Washington County, about 10 miles north of Marietta and near the West Virginia border. The area’s remoteness comes from its location within Ohio’s Appalachian foothills, with vast open spaces and wooded areas providing a natural barrier from larger towns.
It is accessible via State Route 821, which connects to Interstate 77 for easy travel to nearby cities. Despite its proximity to larger roadways, Whipple remains a quiet and secluded retreat, perfect for those looking to embrace rural living.
1. Chesterland – A Wooded Haven in Geauga County
Chesterland, a community within Chester Township in Geauga County, is a wooded haven offering acre-plus lots and dense forests. With a population of about 2,500 residents, it provides peace far from urban hustle.
The area is characterized by its rural charm, featuring local farms, orchards, and the Patterson Fruit Farm, known for seasonal activities. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the West Geauga Commons and the Thompson Ledges Park.
Chesterland’s small-town atmosphere is enhanced by local shops and family-owned businesses. It’s an ideal location for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle amidst natural beauty.
Where is Chesterland?
Located about 25 miles east of Cleveland, Chesterland is accessible via U.S. Route 322 and State Route 306. The township’s forested areas and rolling terrain make its geography particularly appealing to those who appreciate nature.
Visitors can reach Chesterland by taking U.S. Route 322 east from Cleveland to State Route 306. Its combination of accessibility and secluded charm makes Chesterland a prime location for a peaceful retreat in a wooded setting.
