April is Earth Month, which makes it the perfect time to spend more time outdoors and support businesses that care about the planet. Luckily, Northern Kentucky makes it easy to do both.
From scenic parks and peaceful hiking trails to small businesses focused on sustainability, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the season close to home. Whether you’re planning a relaxing afternoon outside or looking for a new weekend adventure, these local spots are a great place to start.
NKY Parks & Nature Spots to Explore
Devou Park – Covington
If you are looking for one of the best views in the region, Devou Park is the place to go. The highest point in the park offers a sweeping panorama of Cincinnati and Covington that is especially beautiful on a clear spring day.
Beyond the overlook, Devou Park is one of the largest green spaces in Northern Kentucky. Visitors can enjoy:
- Miles of walking and hiking trails
- Fishing lakes and scenic picnic areas
- The popular NaturePlay playground designed for outdoor exploration
It is easy to spend an entire afternoon here enjoying the scenery.
Boone Cliffs Nature Preserve – Burlington
Tucked away in what locals often call the “Enchanted Valley,” Boone Cliffs Nature Preserve in Burlington feels like a hidden escape. The 74-acre preserve features towering limestone cliffs that rise 20 to 40 feet above the forest floor.
About 2.4 miles of unpaved trails wind through the preserve, passing a spring-fed stream valley and old-growth forest. The area supports a wide variety of wildlife and plant life, including rare redbank salamanders, numerous bird species, and seasonal wildflowers that bloom throughout the forest.
For those who enjoy quiet nature walks, Boone Cliffs is one of the most peaceful spots in Northern Kentucky.
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site – Union
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is one of the most unique outdoor destinations in the region. Known as the birthplace of American vertebrate paleontology, the park in Union has attracted scientists and visitors for centuries.
Still-active salt springs once drew Ice Age animals to the area. Today, visitors can explore a recreated Pleistocene marsh complete with life-sized mammoth and mastodon sculptures that bring the park’s prehistoric past to life.
The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground, campground, and even a small herd of bison that visitors can see throughout the year. It is a great destination for families, history lovers, and anyone looking to spend a day outdoors.
Kincaid Lake State Park – Falmouth
For a peaceful day on the water, Kincaid Lake State Park in Falmouth is a beautiful destination. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and wooded landscapes that make it feel like a quiet retreat from everyday life.
Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, including:
- Kayaking, paddle boating, and motor boating
- Hiking trails through wooded areas
- Camping and lakeside picnics
- Golf, tennis, volleyball, and cornhole
It is a great spot for a day trip or a relaxed spring weekend.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable NKY Businesses
Spending time outdoors is one way to celebrate Earth Month. Supporting local businesses that focus on sustainability is another.
Across Northern Kentucky and nearby Cincinnati, several small businesses are prioritizing environmentally conscious practices and locally sourced ingredients.
Native Roots Sustainable Landscapes – Cincinnati & NKY Region
Native Roots Sustainable Landscapes designs outdoor spaces that benefit both homeowners and the surrounding environment. Their team focuses on creating functional landscapes while supporting local ecosystems.
By prioritizing native plants and eco-friendly landscaping products, they help homeowners build outdoor spaces that support pollinators and wildlife while reducing environmental impact. The company also uses zero-emission equipment whenever possible.
Native Roots operates a plant market as well, offering a curated selection of native plants, herbs, and eco-friendly gardening essentials for homeowners looking to create pollinator-friendly yards this spring.
Meyer’s Goat Shack & Farmstead Creations – Butler
Meyer’s Goat Shack and Farmstead Creations produces handmade goat milk products using ingredients straight from their farm. Their soaps, lip balms, and sugar scrubs are made in small batches and are free from detergents and harsh chemicals.
In addition to natural skincare products, visitors of the Butler farm can also find farm-fresh eggs and other locally produced goods. It is a charming stop for anyone interested in small-scale farming and locally made products.
Laughing Bees Honey – Newport
Laughing Bees Honey puts a creative twist on traditional honey products. Using locally sourced honey, the Newport-based business creates sweet treats inspired by nostalgic flavors.
Their lineup includes honey caramels, honey gummies, granola, and other small-batch confections made without preservatives or artificial ingredients. Supporting local honey producers also helps protect pollinators that play an essential role in the local ecosystem.
Simply Zero – Over-the-Rhine
Just across the river in Over-the-Rhine, Simply Zero is a lifestyle shop centered around reducing everyday waste. The store operates as a zero-waste refillery, allowing customers to refill containers instead of purchasing new packaging.
Refill products include:
- Hair care and skincare
- Laundry detergent and cleaning products
- Essential oils and lotions
- Pet care items and raw ingredients
The shop also carries sustainable gifts like reusable tea towels, bags, and candles.
Celebrate Earth Month Close to Home
Northern Kentucky offers no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors and support sustainable local businesses. From scenic overlooks and quiet hiking trails to thoughtful small shops and locally made products, it is easy to celebrate Earth Month right here in our region.
Pack a picnic, explore a new trail, or stop by a local business making a difference. A few small choices can go a long way in supporting the places and communities we call home.
Looking for more ways to love where you live? Explore our Northern Kentucky blog library here.
