SOUTHEAST OHIO
Wilkesville Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Belgian Coke Oven Ruins
HISTORICAL INDUSTRIAL SITE | WILKESVILLE OHIO
The Belgian Coke Oven Ruins in Vinton Furnace State Forest are the last remaining structures of their kind in the world. These 19th century brick ovens, originally used to purify coal into coke for iron production, offer a fascinating glimpse into Ohio's industrial past. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about early mining operations in the region.
2. Vinton Furnace State Forest
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA | MCARTHUR OH
Vinton Furnace State Forest spans 12,089 acres of diverse woodland habitat. Home to Ohio's largest known bobcat population, the forest offers extensive hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and hunting opportunities. Visitors can explore remnants of 19th century iron production while enjoying the natural beauty of southeastern Ohio's rolling hills.
3. Lake Hope State Park
SCENIC LAKE & RECREATION | MCARTHUR OH
Lake Hope State Park features a serene 120-acre lake surrounded by forested hills. Popular for boating, fishing, and swimming, the park also offers hiking trails, mountain biking, and winter activities. Visitors can stay overnight in cabins or campsites and explore the restored Hope Furnace, a remnant of the area's iron-producing history.
4. Moonville Rail Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH | MCARTHUR OH
The Moonville Rail Trail follows an abandoned Baltimore & Ohio Railroad corridor through Vinton County. This scenic 16-mile trail passes through forests, over bridges, and by historic tunnels including the famous Moonville Tunnel. Popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, the trail offers a unique journey through Ohio's natural and industrial heritage.
5. Raccoon Creek County Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA | ZALESKI OH
Raccoon Creek County Park offers a peaceful natural retreat along the banks of Raccoon Creek. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy the serene woodland setting and explore the creek's rocky outcroppings while observing local flora and fauna.
6. Zaleski State Forest
HIKING & CAMPING DESTINATION | ZALESKI OH
Zaleski State Forest covers over 28,000 acres of rugged terrain in Vinton County. Known for its extensive backpacking trails, including the popular 23-mile Zaleski Backpack Trail, the forest offers primitive camping, hunting, and fishing. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of southeastern Ohio's Appalachian foothills.
7. Buckeye Furnace State Memorial
HISTORIC IRON FURNACE | WELLSTON OH
Buckeye Furnace State Memorial preserves a restored 19th-century iron-smelting furnace complex. Visitors can explore the reconstructed furnace, company store, and worker housing to learn about Ohio's iron-producing era. The site offers guided tours and demonstrations, providing insight into the daily lives of furnace workers and their families.
8. Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
HISTORIC TRAIN RIDES | NELSONVILLE OH
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway offers scenic train rides through the beautiful Hocking River Valley. Departing from Nelsonville, these excursions feature vintage railcars and pass by historic sites, rock formations, and scenic countryside. Special themed rides are offered throughout the year, including fall foliage tours and holiday events.
9. Ash Cave
NATURAL ROCK FORMATION | LOGAN OH
Ash Cave, located in Hocking Hills State Park, is the largest recess cave in Ohio. This horseshoe-shaped cave measures 700 feet from end to end and features a stunning waterfall. Visitors can hike the easy quarter-mile trail to reach the cave, enjoying the lush surroundings and impressive geological formations along the way.
10. Kindred Spirits
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE | MCARTHUR OH
Kindred Spirits offers a cozy dining experience in the heart of McArthur. Known for its homestyle cooking and friendly atmosphere, the restaurant serves up classic American dishes and local favorites. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals in a welcoming environment, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists exploring Vinton County.
Wilkesville Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN WILKESVILLE
Wilkesville, Ohio, is a small village in Vinton County known for its rich industrial heritage and natural beauty. The Belgian Coke Oven Ruins, located in the nearby Vinton Furnace State Forest, stand as a testament to the area's iron-producing past and are a unique attraction for history enthusiasts.
While Wilkesville itself may be small, it serves as a gateway to the diverse attractions of Vinton County and the surrounding region. The Vinton Furnace State Forest offers extensive outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring remnants of 19th-century iron production.
Nearby Lake Hope State Park provides a scenic retreat with its 120-acre lake, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park also features hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and the restored Hope Furnace, further showcasing the area's industrial history.
For those interested in rail history, the Moonville Rail Trail offers a unique journey through Ohio's natural and industrial heritage, passing by historic tunnels and bridges. These attractions, combined with the region's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, make Wilkesville and its surroundings a hidden gem for visitors seeking a blend of history and nature in southeastern Ohio.