ADAMS COUNTY
Peebles Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Serpent Mound
ANCIENT EFFIGY WONDER | PEEBLES OH
Serpent Mound is a 1,348-foot-long prehistoric effigy mound located in Peebles, Ohio. As the world's largest serpent effigy, this National Historic Landmark sits atop the Serpent Mound crater plateau along Ohio Brush Creek. Visitors can explore the site's museum, walking trails, and marvel at this ancient earthwork, gaining insight into the region's fascinating prehistoric past. The mound's purpose remains a mystery, but its intricate design and alignment with astronomical events continue to captivate researchers and tourists alike.
2. Fort Hill State Memorial
PREHISTORIC HILLTOP ENCLOSURE | PEEBLES OH
Fort Hill State Memorial preserves one of North America's best examples of a prehistoric hilltop enclosure. This ancient site combines historical significance with natural beauty, featuring scenic hiking trails that wind through the area. Visitors can explore the remnants of the ancient earthworks while enjoying the surrounding landscape and learning about the region's rich archaeological heritage. The site offers a unique glimpse into the lives of early Native American cultures and their impressive engineering skills.
3. Edge of Appalachia Preserve System
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT | WEST UNION OH
The Edge of Appalachia Preserve System is a 20,000-acre natural wonder near West Union. Home to hundreds of plant and animal species, including rare and threatened ones, it's a biodiversity hotspot. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, witness stunning natural phenomena like waterfalls, and even experience the mesmerizing firefly displays that illuminate the forest at night. The preserve offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich natural heritage of Appalachia.
4. Davis Memorial State Nature Preserve
GEOLOGICAL MARVEL | PEEBLES OH
Davis Memorial State Nature Preserve, near Peebles, features a deep ravine cut through multiple layers of dolomite. The preserve showcases impressive 50-foot cliffs, displaying both older Peebles and younger Greenfield rock layers. Hikers can explore the preserve's trails, including a section of the statewide Buckeye Trail, while observing rare wildflowers and the fascinating geological formations that make this site unique. The preserve offers a captivating journey through time, revealing millions of years of Earth's history.
5. Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve
RARE PRAIRIE ECOSYSTEM | WEST UNION OH
Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve is a 130-acre site protecting a rare shortgrass prairie ecosystem. Located near West Union, it offers 1.6 miles of hiking trails through diverse prairie landscapes. Visitors can witness spectacular wildflower displays, especially in early August when dense blazing stars create a stunning floral showcase. The preserve is a testament to successful habitat restoration efforts, providing a glimpse into the region's pre-settlement landscape and supporting numerous rare plant and animal species.
6. Adams Lake State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION | WEST UNION OH
Adams Lake State Park, situated on the northern edge of West Union, offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around its 47-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating (with electric motors), swimming, and picnicking. The park also features walking paths and trails through the adjacent Adams Lake Prairie State Nature Preserve, providing opportunities to explore both aquatic and prairie ecosystems. This diverse park offers a perfect blend of relaxation and nature exploration for all ages.
7. Ohio Brush Creek
SCENIC WATERWAY | PEEBLES OH
Ohio Brush Creek, flowing near Peebles, is a picturesque waterway offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy canoeing or kayaking along the creek, taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Dr. George Rieveschl Jr. Creek's Bend Overlook provides a stunning vantage point to appreciate the creek's winding path through the Edge of Appalachia Preserve. The creek's clear waters and diverse aquatic life make it a popular spot for fishing and wildlife observation.
8. Buzzardroost Rock Trail
PANORAMIC VISTA HIKE | WEST UNION OH
The Buzzardroost Rock Trail, part of the Edge of Appalachia Preserve, offers a challenging 4.4-mile round-trip hike to a breathtaking overlook. The trail winds through forests and prairies before reaching a stunning vista 500 feet above the Ohio Brush Creek valley. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Appalachian foothills from the observation area atop a dolomite rock outcropping. This trail showcases the diverse ecosystems and geological features of the region.
9. Tranquility Wildlife Area
WILDLIFE OBSERVATION HAVEN | SEAMAN OH
Tranquility Wildlife Area in Seaman provides a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers. This area offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the diverse flora and fauna of southern Ohio. Visitors can explore the varied habitats and potentially spot native wildlife in their natural surroundings. The area's mix of forests, grasslands, and wetlands creates a rich ecosystem that supports a wide variety of plant and animal species, making it a prime destination for nature lovers.
10. Shawnee State Forest
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE | WEST PORTSMOUTH OH
Shawnee State Forest, known as "The Little Smokies of Ohio," is a vast wilderness area near West Portsmouth. It offers extensive hiking trails, camping facilities, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can immerse themselves in the forest's rugged beauty, explore its diverse ecosystems, and enjoy activities such as backpacking, hunting, and wildlife viewing in this expansive natural playground. The forest's 60,000 acres of unbroken woodlands provide a true wilderness experience in the heart of Ohio.