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Jackson County is renowned for its hunting and fishing opportunities, along with its two state parks, private camping and recreational facilities.  Each year Jackson County ranks among the top 10 counties in the state of Ohio in number of deer harvested.

The Cooper Hollow Wildlife Area is a 3,240 –acre area popular for hunting squirrels, ruffed grouse, deer and wild turkeys.  Largemouth bass, channel catfish and bluegill are predominate species fish in the ponds.  It also has nearly 20 miles of hiking trails.

There is both fishing and camping at Lake Alma State Park north of Wellston, and Jackson Lake State Park near Oak Hill.  Hammertown Lake in Jackson, the city reservoir has a good population of bluegill, base and rainbow trout and channel catfish.

The Lake Katherine Nature Preserve is a beautiful area full of flowers, a lake, natural beauty and many trails to hike and follow.

Additional camping can be sought at a privately owned camping area, Lazy Dog Campground between Jackson and Wellston on State Route 32.  Also across the highway is the Splashdown Country Water Park and Splashdown Country RV Resort and Pay Lake.

Jackson County offers many recreational opportunities for its young and adults alike.  Both cities of Jackson and Wellston sponsor city recreational programs that organize many outdoor programs and some indoor activities.  Many of the indoor activities are available at the Jackson Area YMCA on Main Street.

There are two golf courses in the county.  The 18-hole Franklin Valley Golf course is open to the public while the Fairgreens Country Club is a private club