Next time you’re looking for a lengthy getaway, book one of our cabins in Hocking Hills for the week. From here you can take day trips to the beautiful surrounding areas like Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve. Of course we recommend you start with Ohio’s best landmarks like Old Man’s Cave.
Here’s what you need to know about Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve.
Ohio is committed to preserving the state’s natural beauty as well as the habitats of the diverse flora and fauna that call it home. The state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has designated 136 nature preserves as protected areas, 89 of which are open to the public. Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve, located in southeast Ohio about an hour south of Logan, is one of the biggest publicly accessible nature preserves, encompassing more than 2000 acres. As one of the top places in the state to view spring wildflowers, the preserve is also one of the most beautiful.
The Preserve
Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve is centered on Lake Katharine, an artificial lake that sits at the southern edge of the Hocking Hills region. The nature preserve shares many of the same geological characteristics that form the Hocking Hills signature, including rock formations made of Blackhand sandstone. Sandstone cliffs and dense a Appalachian forest surround the clear blue waters of the lake.
Because of its location, the preserve provides habitats for both northern and southern species of plants. Eastern hemlock, beech, and birch trees thrive in three deep ravines formed long ago by glacial meltwaters, while the cliff tops are home to pine, laurel, and oak trees. The preserve represents the farthest north it is possible to find the rare bigleaf and umbrella magnolias, and springtime brings stunning displays of colorful wildflowers, including many native orchids.
Activities
This is a nature preserve, not a park, so the facilities are limited. Three main hiking trails span about six miles. The one-mile Calico Bush Trail is popular in the spring for the wildflowers found along the path, while the two-mile Salt Creek Trail winds through a stand of evergreens toward Salt Lick Creek. Finally, the two-and-a-half-mile Pine Ridge Trail crosses Rock Run Creek. Along the trail system, hikers are treated to views of rock formations, wetlands, and a natural stairway waterfall.
The eastern portion of the reserve is open to the public, while the western part is reserved for scientific research. Boating is allowed on Lake Katharine by written permit, with limited daily permits given out Fridays through Mondays, April to October only. Fishing is permitted from a boat, but not from the shore, and a valid Ohio fishing license is required.
The preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
While You’re in the Area
Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve is only a short drive from Jackson County’s many other historic sites and nature areas. The Leo Petroglyph State Memorial features a collection of 1000-year-old carvings etched into sandstone, while the Lillian E. Jones Museum is dedicated to preserving the county’s historical artifacts. Nature lovers will also enjoy the nearby Jackson Lake State Park and Richland Furnace State Forest.
Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve is the perfect place to refresh your body and spirit—take a hike, breathe in the clear crisp air, and enjoy the beauty of one of Ohio’s most picturesque destinations.
