As a mark of outstanding generosity, 
Dr. and Mrs. Kessler donated 20 the acres of prime swampland that is Kessler Swamp State Nature Preserve to become something for all to enjoy. This is the same Kessler family that also donated what would become Bock Hollow State Nature Preserve, also in Hocking Hills.
Kessler Swamp State Nature Preserve is a 20 acres site made up mainly of the swamp. There is a lot of water here, meaning there is plenty of habitat for waterfowl, small mammals and birds. It is fed by the Durbin Run, a small, local tributary of Rush Creek, which keeps the water level topped up and the water fresh.
The water is retained by an earth dam, care of the local beaver population that gradually soaked the ground and created the swamp. Nothing was done to intrude on this natural process and Kessler Swamp State Nature Preserve was born.
In fact, it is an excellent place for bird watching any time of year, but especially spring and summer. The migrations are the best time to stop birds, but it’s quite possible to spot bald eagles, geese, swans, ducks, herons and other birds here throughout the year. So far, the fact that Kessler Swamp State Nature Preserve isn’t very well known works in the favor of local bird watchers and nature lovers.
There are several species of marshland plant growing here including the buttonbush and the bur-marigold. If mammals are more your thing, there are beaver by the dozen if you’re fortunate enough to spot them.
The site itself is largely unimproved, but it does have a pull-off area, marked path and small observation deck for visitors. We prefer it this way as it give the landscape pride of place and interferes as little as possible with the natural habitat of the wildlife around.
Kessler Swamp State Nature Preserve is just one of many natural parts and preserves in and around Hocking Hills. If being outdoors, in the forest or watching wildlife are your think, you’ll love it here. It’s an outdoorsman’s and woman’s paradise!
If you need somewhere to stay while you visit Kessler Swamp State Nature Preserve or Hocking Hills then we have the perfect place. Our traditional cabins are rustic, quaint but include all the warmth, comfort and convenience of modern life, with a wilderness twist. Come visit us when you’re in the area!
