SOUTHWEST OHIO
Sinking Spring Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Ohio's Buckeye Trail
SCENIC HIKING TRAIL | SINKING SPRING OHIO
Ohio's Buckeye Trail passes through Sinking Spring, offering hikers a scenic journey through the region's natural beauty. This 1,444-mile trail loops around Ohio, showcasing diverse landscapes from forests to farmlands. The Sinking Spring section provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the area's rolling hills and lush woodlands.
2. Fort Hill State Memorial
ANCIENT EARTHWORKS | SINKING SPRING OH
Fort Hill State Memorial preserves an ancient hilltop enclosure built by the Hopewell culture. This 1,300-acre site features 11,000 feet of earthen walls and offers hiking trails through old-growth forests. Visitors can explore the museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the area's rich Native American history and archaeological significance.
3. Serpent Mound
PREHISTORIC EFFIGY MOUND | PEEBLES OH
Serpent Mound is a prehistoric effigy mound located near Peebles, Ohio. This 1,348-foot-long earthwork in the shape of a serpent is the largest serpent effigy in the world. Visitors can walk along the path surrounding the mound, visit the museum to learn about its history, and enjoy picnic areas with scenic views.
4. Rocky Fork State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA | HILLSBORO OH
Rocky Fork State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around its 2,080-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beach. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse ecosystem, home to numerous bird species and other wildlife.
5. Paint Creek State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION | BAINBRIDGE OH
Paint Creek State Park is a 5,652-acre park featuring a 1,190-acre lake. The park offers diverse recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy picnic areas, or relax on the beach. The park's varied habitats support a wide range of plant and animal species.
6. Highland Nature Sanctuary
NATURE PRESERVE | BAINBRIDGE OH
Highland Nature Sanctuary is a 2,600-acre preserve featuring stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can explore over 16 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Barrier Ridge Trail. The sanctuary is home to rare plant species and offers guided hikes, educational programs, and opportunities for bird watching.
7. Fallsville Wildlife Area
WILDLIFE & RECREATION | HILLSBORO OH
Fallsville Wildlife Area is a 1,405-acre preserve offering diverse habitats for wildlife and outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy hiking, hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The area features Fallsville Falls, a scenic 15-foot waterfall, and provides opportunities for nature photography and bird watching in a serene natural setting.
8. Lynchburg Covered Bridge
HISTORIC LANDMARK | LYNCHBURG OH
The Lynchburg Covered Bridge, built in 1870, is the only covered bridge remaining in Highland County. This 100-foot-long bridge spans the East Fork of the Little Miami River. Visitors can walk through the bridge, enjoy picnic areas nearby, and learn about its history through informational plaques.
9. Highland County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | HILLSBORO OH
The Highland County Historical Society Museum showcases the rich history of Highland County. Housed in a historic building, the museum features exhibits on local Native American history, pioneer life, and military memorabilia. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring the county's past to life.
10. The Porch Restaurant
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE | HILLSBORO OH
The Porch Restaurant offers a charming dining experience in a renovated historic home. Known for its homestyle cooking and friendly atmosphere, the restaurant serves American classics and local specialties. Diners can enjoy meals on the spacious porch or in cozy indoor dining rooms, surrounded by vintage decor.
Sinking Spring Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN SINKING SPRING
Sinking Spring, Ohio, is a small village nestled in the scenic hills of Highland County, known for its rich history and natural beauty. The area is most famous for its proximity to ancient Native American earthworks and its position along the Buckeye Trail, offering visitors a unique blend of historical significance and outdoor recreation.
One of the most popular attractions near Sinking Spring is Fort Hill State Memorial, an ancient hilltop enclosure built by the Hopewell culture. This impressive site features 11,000 feet of earthen walls and provides visitors with a glimpse into the area's prehistoric past. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the old-growth forests surrounding the fort, immersing themselves in both history and nature.
The Ohio Buckeye Trail, which passes through Sinking Spring, is another major draw for outdoor enthusiasts. This extensive trail system offers hikers the opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Ohio, from rolling hills to dense forests. The section near Sinking Spring is particularly scenic, showcasing the natural beauty of Highland County.
While Sinking Spring itself is a small community, its location provides easy access to other attractions in Highland County, such as Rocky Fork State Park and the Highland Nature Sanctuary. These nearby destinations offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the natural wonders of southwestern Ohio.