So, okay, we were actually still on the grid because there was power and running water, but since we didn’t get cell reception on our recent family trip, I’m counting it as being offline.  We packed up the little man and headed to Pike Lake in Southern Ohio.  Yes, you have probably never heard of it.  I hadn’t either, but when I was Googling quick trips this place came up and had a cottage available for only $60 per night.

The park itself is a quaint, beautiful park situated in the foothills of middle-of-nowhere-Ohio.  There is a man-made lake with a very small swimming beach which is perfect for young children.  You can rent kayaks, canoes and paddle boats or take a variety of hiking trails around the grounds.  I counted at least 4  playgrounds, plus a nature center with displays of native animals (snakes, turtles, frogs).  So there is actually plenty to do around the park.

If you go:

• If possible, reserve one of the preferred cabins.  These have two rooms (great for kids who go to bed earlier than the adults) and a screened in porch (you’ll be thankful for this when you see the bugs).
• Older children might enjoy seeing some of the area attractions including Native American burial mounds.
• There are televisions in the cottages, but I would plan the whole trip as a no technology stay.  Bring books and games for downtime in the cottage.  Plan on the rest of the stay swimming, hiking, playing or boating.