Into the Wild: Exploring Hardin County’s Parks and Preserves

1. The Crown Jewel: Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve

Located just south of Kenton, Lawrence Woods is one of the largest remaining large-timber tracts in the region.

• What to See: A high-quality 1.1 mile boardwalk takes you through a rare "buttonbush" swamp and past massive old-growth oaks that have stood for centuries.
• The Spring Show: This is the premier spot in the county for spring wildflowers. In April and May, the forest floor is a carpet of trillium and violets.

2. A Birdwatcher's Haven: Andreoff Wildlife Area

Located near Forest in the northeast corner of the county, the Andreoff Wildlife Area is the county’s true sanctuary for migratory species.

• The Landscape: Spanning over 800 acres, this area features restored wetlands and grasslands specifically designed to host wildlife.
• What to spot: It is a critical stopover for migratory birds. Depending on the season, you can spot shorebirds, waterfowl, and even bald eagles or short-eared owls hunting over the prairies.

3. Fun at the Water’s Edge: Salisbury Park and France Lake

Just on the outskirts of Kenton, Saulisberry Park and France Lake offer the perfect mix of recreation and nature.

• France Lake: This serene body of water is a local favorite for fishing and quiet paddling. The surrounding trails offer great views of the water and a chance to spot turtles and local waterfowl.
• Family Fun: With the playground and picnic shelters at Salisbury Park, it’s the ideal "base camp" for a family day outdoors.

4. The Engineering Marvel: The Scioto Marsh

A drive south of McGuffey and Alger offers a look at one of the most significant landscape transformations in Ohio's history.

• The Black Muck: You can still see the famous, ultra-fertile black soil that once made this area the "Onion Capital of the World."
• The Ditches: Observe the massive, straight-line drainage ditches—an engineering feat from over a century ago that turned a nearly impassable swamp into some of the most productive farmland in the country.
• A Modern Landscape: The area is a fascinating study in the evolution of land use, where historic agricultural muck soil now sits alongside the modern skyline of renewable energy solar panels.

Tips for Your Outdoor Adventure:

• Footwear: If you're heading to the unpaved trails or to France Lake, sturdy walking shoes are a must.
• Photography: The wide-open horizons of the Scioto Marsh offer some of the most dramatic sunset photography in the county.
• Respect the Land: Remember that much of the land in the marsh area is private property; please enjoy the views from the public roadways.