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Ohio
21

Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Southeast Ohio Region
Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area
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SCIOTO RIVER CANAL LANDS ACCESS STATE WILDLIFE AREA
SCIOTO RIVER CANAL LANDS ACCESS STATE WILDLIFE AREA
The Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area is a picturesque outdoor space located in the state of Ohio. Spanning over 4,700 acres, this vast area offers a diverse range of natural habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, and meadows, making it a haven for various wildlife species. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, hunting, bird-watching, and hiking along the scenic trails that wind through the area. With its serene surroundings and abundant wildlife, the Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area provides a great opportunity to connect with nature and engage in outdoor recreational activities.
History of the Area
The Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area is located in Ross County, Ohio. It is a 993-acre state wildlife area that provides public access to the Scioto River and adjacent wetlands and forested areas. The history of the area is closely tied to the development of the Ohio and Erie Canal in the 19th century.

The Ohio and Erie Canal was an important transportation route that connected Lake Erie in Cleveland to the Ohio River in Portsmouth. It played a crucial role in the economic development of Ohio, allowing for the transportation of goods and people across the state. The canal was constructed between 1825 and 1832 and operated until the 1860s when railroads became the dominant mode of transportation.

The Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area is located along the historical route of the Ohio and Erie Canal. In the 1830s, a canal feeder system was constructed to supply water to the Summit Level of the canal, which flowed through Ross County. This feeder system diverted water from the Scioto River to replenish the canal in the event of low water levels.

Over time, the canal became obsolete and fell into disrepair. By the early 20th century, the canal was no longer in use, and the land surrounding it was repurposed for various purposes. In the 1970s, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources acquired land along the Scioto Canal feeder system to create the Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area.

The purpose of creating this wildlife area was to provide public access to the Scioto River and preserve the natural habitats in the region. The area offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including waterfowl, songbirds, deer, and various fish species found in the Scioto River.

The Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area continues to be managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and is open to the public for recreational activities. Its historical connection to the Ohio and Erie Canal adds to its significance as a natural and historical resource in Ohio.
Nearby Accommodations
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Cottages and Cabins
Rustic beauty in a peaceful, clean atmosphere is the secret to this Family Retreat. The serene splendor of Mother Nature is your reward for visiting Walnut Creek. We offer cabin rentals for those who want the convenience with less effort.
4.5 miles from park*




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Area Campgrounds
Walnut Creek Campground & Resort
2342 Walnut Creek Road
Chillicothe, OH
740-774-1203
Sun Valley Campground
10105 County Road 550
Chillicothe, OH
740-775-3490
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Bait & Tackle
381 N High St
Chillicothe, OH
(740) 774-1985
D & K Bait & Tackle Dealers
288 W Hydell Rd
Chillicothe, OH
(740) 772-1836
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
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Hidden Cave Cabin - Rockbridge, OH
Cottages and Cabins
Hidden Cave Cabin is an authentic log cabin with 2 bedrooms in a private wooded setting. It is located on one of the most scenic drives in Hocking Hills and just 3.6 miles to Rock House and less than 10 miles to Conkle's Hollow and Old Man's Cave.
25.1 miles from park*
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Cottages and Cabins
Trickle Creek offers luxury cabins in Hocking Hills. The cabins are situated on nearly 236 acres of secluded cabin rentals in the deep wooded ravines in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Hocking County, Ohio.
30.5 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
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Directions
1. Starting from Columbus, take I-71 southbound and continue for about 17 miles.
2. Take exit 100 for OH-56 toward Circleville/Kingston.
3. Turn right onto OH-56 W/London Rd and continue for approximately 6 miles.
4. Turn left onto Borror Rd.
5. After about 2 miles, turn right onto Lockbourne Eastern Rd.
6. Continue straight onto Lockbourne Rd for about 4 miles.
7. Turn left onto Frank Rd and continue for approximately 6 miles.
8. The entrance to the Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area will be on your right.

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Ohio
21

Ohio State Parks

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