Ohio’s Largest Wildlife Area Grows by 6,898 Acres

MCCONNELSVILLE, Ohio – June 21, 2022 – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife announced today the purchase of an additional 6,898 acres at Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area in southeast Ohio. The acquisition brings the total acreage of Ohio’s largest wildlife area to 54,525 acres of public land for hunting, fishing, trapping, birding, and outdoor recreation.

“The latest addition to Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area adds vibrant lands to an area already well known for fabulous hunting and fishing,” Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker said. “We are proud to expand outdoor recreation opportunities for all Ohioans and protect wildlife habitats. Thank you to Ohio’s sportsmen and women who came together to promote and support this purchase.”

The Division of Wildlife’s latest acquisition at Appalachian Hills is the final installment in a series of additions that have taken place since 2020. Funding for the cumulative purchases came from $68 million in capital improvement and wildlife funds.

“The acquisition was made possible thanks to the support of Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly so people can now enjoy in perpetuity this expanse in the great outdoors,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz.

Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area lies in Guernsey, Morgan, Muskingum, and Noble counties, near McConnelsville. It connects a network of habitats between Jesse Owens State Park in addition to The Wilds, an outlet of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Located in the unglaciated portion of Ohio, the area’s terrain is varied and rugged, dissected by many small streams and rolling hills. It is mostly forestland but also has abundant grasslands and some wetlands.

Over 350 lakes and ponds dot the landscape at Appalachian Hills, providing anglers plentiful fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, bluegills, catfish, and more. Appalachian Hills is one of the best locations in the state to catch largemouth bass that qualify for Fish Ohio recognition. Thousands of acres of varied habitats have resulted in excellent white-tailed deer and wild turkey hunting. Hunters can pursue all manner of other game in the area, which has abundant squirrel, rabbit, and furbearer numbers.

Birders can find species such as short-eared owl, northern harrier, prairie warbler, bobolink, and scarlet tanager on the property. Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area is also one of the few locations in Ohio where northern shrikes can be found in the winter. Hiking enthusiasts can find great trails, including 24 miles of the 1,400-mile Buckeye Trail. This is one of a handful of wildlife areas that allows camping in designated spots, with nearly 300 campsites spread across six designated areas.

Those interested in visiting Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area can find maps, species information, fishing tips, and additional resources at wildohio.gov. Download the HuntFish OH mobile app for free resources on the go.

The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

Information courtesy of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources