Buckeye Adventure Photo Contest

Showcase your best snapshots of Ohio's natural beauty! Whether it's hiking trails, scenic overlooks, or wildlife encounters, we want to see your adventures.

How to Enter

Follow us on Instagram @BuckeyeAdventures
Post your photo on Instagram using #BuckeyeAdventureContest
Tag us in your photo
Submit your entry via the form below

Prizes

Grand Prize: Guided Hiking Tour for Two + Photography Workshop
Second Prize: Wilderness Survival Skills Training for One
Third Prize: Buckeye Adventures Gear Package

Contest Duration

Contest runs from July 15th to August 31st, 2024.

Rules & Guidelines

Photos must be taken in Ohio.
Entries must be original photos.
Contest is open to Ohio residents only (18+).
Winners selected on creativity and relevance.

Submit Your Entry

Full Name

Email Address

Instagram Handle

Brief Description of Your Photo (Optional)

Upload Your Photo

Buckeye Adventures team hiking in a forest

About Buckeye State Guided Adventures

Your gateway to exploring the natural wonders of Ohio. We are passionate about sharing the beauty and adventure of the Buckeye State with you through expertly guided tours and workshops.

Buckeye State Guided Adventures was born from a shared dream among a group of lifelong Ohioans – to showcase the breathtaking and often underappreciated natural beauty of our home state. For generations, our families have explored the forests, paddled the rivers, and hiked the trails of Ohio. This deep-rooted connection to the land sparked a desire to create something more than just a business; we wanted to build a community around the love of the outdoors.

Founded in 2010, we started small, offering weekend hiking trips to local state parks. Word of mouth spread quickly as participants raved about the expertise of our guides and the unforgettable experiences we provided. Over the years, we've expanded our offerings to include a diverse range of adventures, from rigorous multi-day backpacking expeditions deep into the wilderness areas of Wayne National Forest, to serene nature photography workshops capturing the delicate beauty of Ohio's wildflowers in bloom. We are proud to have introduced thousands of people, both locals and visitors, to the hidden gems of Ohio’s landscapes.

Our core values are deeply embedded in every aspect of our operations. Safety is paramount; we rigorously train our guides in wilderness first aid, navigation, and risk management. Environmental stewardship is equally crucial; we are committed to Leave No Trace principles and actively participate in conservation efforts to protect the natural spaces we cherish. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we believe in creating enriching experiences that foster a sense of wonder and connection with nature. We strive to make every adventure not just a tour, but a journey of discovery and personal growth.

Looking to the future, Buckeye State Guided Adventures is dedicated to continuing to innovate and expand our offerings. We are developing new partnerships with local communities and conservation organizations to further promote sustainable tourism and environmental education. We are also constantly exploring new trails and hidden corners of Ohio to bring fresh and exciting adventures to our valued clients. Join us, and let us help you discover the unforgettable beauty and adventure that awaits in the Buckeye State.

Our Guided Adventures

Explore Ohio's best outdoor experiences with our diverse range of guided tours and workshops.

Guided Hiking Tours

Discover scenic trails and hidden gems with our expert guides. Choose from various difficulty levels and themes, from gentle strolls through wildflower meadows to challenging climbs offering panoramic vistas of the Ohio River Valley. Each tour is designed to immerse you in the natural beauty of Ohio, providing opportunities to learn about local flora and fauna, geological formations, and the rich history of the land. Our guides are adept at tailoring the pace and focus of each hike to the group's interests and abilities, ensuring an enjoyable and enriching experience for everyone. Prices start at $75 per person.

Photography workshop in a natural setting

Nature Photography Workshops

Learn to capture stunning nature photos with hands-on workshops in Ohio's most picturesque locations. Whether you're a beginner with a smartphone camera or an experienced photographer with professional gear, our workshops offer valuable insights and techniques to elevate your nature photography skills. Led by professional photographers with a passion for the Ohio landscape, these workshops cover composition, lighting, wildlife photography, macro techniques, and post-processing tips. Locations vary seasonally to capture the best of Ohio's natural beauty, from vibrant autumn foliage in Hocking Hills to the delicate spring blooms in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Workshops start at $120 per person, including materials.

Wilderness Survival Skills Training

Gain essential survival skills for safe and confident exploration in the wilderness. Our comprehensive training programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to handle unexpected situations in outdoor environments. Learn essential techniques such as fire starting using various methods, building emergency shelters, finding and purifying water sources, basic navigation using a map and compass, and wilderness first aid. Our experienced instructors emphasize hands-on learning in realistic scenarios, building your confidence and competence in self-reliance and responsible wilderness travel. Courses range from one-day introductory sessions to multi-day immersive experiences, starting at $150.

Customized Trail Expeditions

Create your own adventure! We design personalized expeditions tailored to your interests and skill level. Whether you dream of a challenging backpacking trip through the rugged terrain of Shawnee State Forest, a leisurely canoe journey down the scenic Little Miami River, or a specialized birdwatching tour in Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, we can make it happen. Our expert team works closely with you to understand your preferences, desired level of challenge, and specific interests, crafting a unique itinerary that perfectly matches your vision. We handle all logistics, including permits, equipment, meal planning, and transportation, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable personalized adventure. Contact us for a consultation and custom quote.

Group Adventure Outings

Perfect for families, friends, and corporate teams. Enjoy team-building and outdoor fun together. Our group adventure outings are designed to foster camaraderie, communication, and shared experiences in the inspiring setting of the Ohio outdoors. We offer a variety of activities suitable for different group sizes and interests, including team-based hiking challenges, guided nature scavenger hunts, group canoeing or kayaking trips, and outdoor leadership development workshops. These outings are ideal for corporate retreats, family reunions, school groups, or simply a fun and active day out with friends. We can customize the activities and duration to meet your group's specific needs and objectives. Inquire about group discounts and package options.

What Our Adventurers Say

Read stories from fellow outdoor enthusiasts who have explored Ohio with us.

Sarah Miller

Avid Hiker

"The guided hiking tour was incredible! Our guide, Dave, was so knowledgeable about the trails and local wildlife. He made the experience both educational and incredibly enjoyable. I highly recommend Buckeye Adventures to anyone looking to explore Ohio's natural beauty – you won't be disappointed!"

John B. - Photography Workshop Participant

John Becker

Photography Enthusiast

"I attended the nature photography workshop last fall, and it was fantastic! Jessica, the instructor, was amazing – she patiently explained complex concepts in a way that was easy to understand and apply. My photos have improved dramatically, and I now see the Ohio landscape with a completely new perspective. Thank you, Buckeye Adventures!"

Emily Lawson

Outdoor Adventurer

"The wilderness survival training was both challenging and empowering. Michael is a phenomenal instructor – his calm demeanor and practical approach made learning these critical skills feel accessible and even fun. I now feel much more confident and prepared for any unexpected situations during my outdoor adventures. This course is a must for anyone who loves exploring the wilderness!"

Robert Davis

Family Adventure Seeker

"Our family group outing was an absolute blast! Buckeye Adventures organized a perfect day of hiking and nature games that kept both the adults and kids engaged and entertained. It was a fantastic way to bond and enjoy the outdoors together. We're already planning our next adventure with them!"

Linda Chen

Corporate Team Leader

"We booked a customized team-building expedition for our corporate retreat, and it exceeded all expectations. The Buckeye Adventures team crafted a program that perfectly balanced challenge and collaboration, helping our team connect on a deeper level while experiencing the beauty of Ohio's forests. Highly effective and incredibly well-organized!"

Michael Rodriguez

Wildlife Enthusiast

"The guided birdwatching tour was a dream come true for me! Our guide's expertise in identifying local bird species and their habitats was truly impressive. I saw more species in one morning with Buckeye Adventures than I had in years of solo birding! A truly enriching and memorable experience for any nature lover."

Meet Our Team

Our experienced and passionate guides are dedicated to making your adventure safe and memorable.

David Miller

Lead Adventure Guide

David is a certified wilderness guide with over 10 years of experience leading expeditions in Ohio. He's passionate about sharing his love for the outdoors and ensuring every adventurer has a safe and enriching experience. His deep knowledge of Ohio's trails and ecosystems makes him an invaluable leader on any expedition.

Jessica Rodriguez

Nature Photography Instructor

Jessica is a professional photographer specializing in nature and wildlife. With a keen artistic eye and a mastery of photographic techniques, she brings both creativity and technical expertise to our photography workshops, inspiring participants to capture the beauty of nature through their lenses.

Michael Chen

Wilderness Skills Trainer

Michael is an expert in wilderness survival and outdoor education. He is deeply committed to teaching practical, life-saving skills for safe and responsible outdoor adventures. His calm and patient teaching style makes even complex survival techniques accessible to everyone.

Win an Unforgettable Ohio Adventure!