Forest Information
The Wayne National Forest is located in southeastern Ohio in the
foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It is comprised of
238,000 acres. There are seven developed campgrounds, four of
which meet the selection criteria.
The Wayne National Forest is made up three separate, noncontiguous districts units (Athens, Marietta, and Ironton). The individuality of these districts make Wayne National Forest appear to be three forests instead of one and offers visitors three-times the recreational opportunities and camping locations. Within a few hours drive of such metropolitan areas as Columbus, Cleveland, Dayton, Cincinnati, and Louisville, the Wayne offers its visitors a wide variety of activities and pleasant camping locations. The lush beauty of the rolling Appalachian foothills plus 300 miles of trails, fishing, camping, and much, much more await visitors.
The Ironton Ranger District is furthest south in the Forest and contains the Vesuvius Recreation Area with Lake Vesuvius, two ATV and off-highway motorcycle trail riding areas, hiking trails, horse trails, and two (Iron Ridge and Oak Hill) recreational vehicle (RV) and motorhome-friendly camping locations. Lake Vesuvius offers not only comfortable camping facilities but lots of boating, fishing, and swimming. An alternative to the water based activities is hiking along one of the many miles of trails. These trails provide visitors with an opportunity to discover and explore the Forest's beauty up close. The nearby equestrian camp gives horse lovers an opportunity to explore the Wayne National Forest on some 45-miles of trails. Although not particularly convenient to the developed campgrounds in the recreation area, Hanging Rock and Pine Creek ATV and off-highway motorcycle riding areas offers a third way to enjoy the rolling topography found in the area. Mountain bikers are also welcomed to ride these motorized trail areas.
Located northeast of Ironton Ranger District and adjacent to the Ohio River, is the Marietta Unit of the Athens Ranger District. Here the forest conveys the brawny feel of the mighty Ohio River. The flora is thicker, wilder, and less welcoming than in the other districts. Here one can explore the Wayne National Forest by canoe using the Little Muskingum River or take the Covered Bridge Scenic Byway Auto Tour to learn about the area's dynamic history. The Marietta Unit also offers wonderful opportunities for hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers to experience the area's natural beauty. The North Country Scenic Trail traverses through 41 miles of this part of the Forest. There are several campgrounds along either route but Leith Run, on the banks of the Ohio River, is the most developed. It is an awesome sight to see the Ohio River rolling by from a campfire.
The Athens unit of the Athens Ranger District, the third and most centrally located district, provides a transition between the brawny power of southern Ohio and the tranquility of the state's farmland. Much less developed than the other two districts, the Athens Ranger District offers wonderful opportunities for hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, and off-road enthusiasts. This is where the North Country Scenic and Buckeye trails join and cross through the middle of the district for approximately 23 miles. Monday Creek ORV area provides yet another place to explore and challenge one's skills.
Located in the southeast corner of Ohio, the Wayne National Forest is in the heart of the heavily populated Midwest. Within a few hours drive of such metropolitan areas as Columbus, Cleveland, Dayton, Cincinnati, and Louisville, the Wayne offers its visitors a wide variety of activities and pleasant camping locations. The lush beauty of the rolling Appalachian foothills plus 300 miles of trails, fishing, camping, and much, much more await visitors to this wonderfully diverse forest.
So much to do, so much to see, so many experiences await visitors from the nearby metro-areas and local outdoor enthusiasts. The Wayne National Forest awaits your discovery.
ADDRESSES
SUPERVISOR ADDRESS
13700 U.S. Hwy. 33
Nelsonville, Ohio 45764
740-753-0101
RANGER DISTRICT ADDRESSES
Athens
27515 State Rt. 7
Marietta, Ohio 45750
740-373-9055
Ironton
6518 St., Rt. 93
Pedro, Ohio 45659
740-534-6500 |
