Adams Lake State Park47-acre lake with boat ramp. Electric motors only.
The adjoining Adams Lake State Nature Preserve has two short loop trails for approximately 1/2- mile total hiking. Both are considered easy hikes, The Prairie Dock Trail is yet another example of small prairie openings common in Adams County. The Post Oak Trail features a short hike through an oak-hickory forest.
Edge of Appalachia Preserve System A private preserve of 14,000 acres of forest, prairies, waterfalls, gorges, and mountains, containing over 100 rare species of plants and animals. Administered jointly by the Nature Conservancy and Cincinnati Museum Center, the preserve contains and protects such local landmarks as Buzzardroost, Cedar Falls, Red Rock, The Swirl Hole, and Lynx Prairie.
Ohio River Island National Wildlife Refuge
Robert A. Whipple State Nature Preserve270 acres filled with Dolomite cliffs, slump blocks, sinkholes and good spring wildflowers. Pull off parking and a sign are present. The preserve has a moderate 1-3/4 mile hike among the Ohio River hills. During late fall, after the leaves are gone, hikers can view the Ohio River valley.
Shawnee State ForestFrom their website: "Located in the Appalachian foothills near the banks of the Ohio River, Shawnee State Park is nestled in the 63,000-acre Shawnee State Forest. Once the hunting grounds of the Shawnee Indians, the region is one of the most picturesque in the state, featuring erosion-carved valleys and wooded hills. The rugged beauty of the area has earned it the nickname 'The Little Smokies.' "
Shawnee State Forest is along the border of Adams & Scioto Counties and has many quiet gravel roads - excellent for mountain bike trips.
There are several hiking trails including a section of the North County Trail that goes through the Shawnee Wilderness Area. The Buckhorn trail, a seven mile bridle & hiking trail takes hikers into the heart of the wilderness area. The Cabbage Patch Trail also leads into the interior of the wilderness area can be accessed off Lower Twin Creek Road. The trails range from moderate to strenuous. Hikers may encounter remains of old sandstone quarries active during the late 1800’s.
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