Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area
“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” ~ John Muir
Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area was purchased from American Electric Power from 2018 -2021. Many may not be familiar with its new name. The Wildlife Area is located in portions or Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, and Guernsey counties in Southeastern Ohio. Primary access to the area is from State Route 78 or State Route 83.
Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area consists of 54,525 acres, which surrounds Jesse Owens State Park. Various types of coal mining, including strip mining, took place here during the 20th century. This offers the perfect place of habitat for many wildlife species as it contains forest, grassland, wetlands, small streams, and ponds.
A new Visitor Center will provide an educational experience to celebrate southeast Ohio’s wild spaces. Ribbon cutting ceremony is on April 24, 2026. This two-story center will highlight a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for all Ohioans to enjoy. Inside, educational and interactive displays highlight the history of the region. Outside, a 350-degree scenic ramp and observation deck is a great place to observe wildlife.
Jordan Skates, manager of the Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area and Visitor Center, expressed her hopes for the area. “The Visitor Center will have various displays that capitalize on aspects of the wildlife area, almost as a gateway to adventure of the property. Our staff looks forward to hosting a variety of educational programming in partnership with Jesse Owens State Parks to provide interactive hunting, fishing, and naturalist programs. We look forward to welcoming both newcomers and those who have been coming to the property to explore or camp for generations.”
Plans are to have a herd of bison at a nearby site for ease of viewing. Bison are native to Ohio but were wiped out in the 1800s. By placing a herd here, visitors will learn the history of the bison as well as the importance of conserving land and habitats so other species will not be eradicated. The herd of bison will be on loan from The Wilds, where a bison breeding program is taking place.
Over 360 scattered lakes and ponds created during the reclamation process provide great fishing prospects for anglers. Largemouth bass and bluegill are the predominant species of fish found here.
Life jackets save lives and now they are easier to borrow than ever! There is a Life Jacket Loaner Station to help keep people safe on the water. The station is located at Sand Hollow Campground right beside the boat ramp, and is stocked with free-to-borrow life jackets in sizes from infant to adult oversized. Grab what you need, enjoy your time on the water, and return them when finished. No matter if you are boating, fishing, or paddling, wearing a life jacket can make all the difference in your safety.
Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area is a popular destination for hunting. The places left undisturbed during the mining process make great fields for hunting. Here you will find white-tailed deer, wild turkey, cottontail rabbit, mourning dove, squirrel and grouse and perhaps some surprises.
The rugged terrain is dissected by numerous small streams. Trappers take delight as here is an opportunity to find nearly all Ohio furbearers due to the diverse nature of the area.
It’s also a great destination for bird watching. Many bird species, some rare, are found throughout the unique grassland/brushland landscape. They annually plant acres of food plots for dove fields.
For astronomy observation and astrophotography, Grieser Field provides a great view of the nighttime sky. It is located in Morgan County near Lawrence Road. This area is for nighttime hours.
If you want to spend a few days, visit their free primitive campsites. No reservations are required with a 14-day camping limit so everyone has a chance to enjoy the area. You have to provide your own water and firewood but fun and relaxation are available at no cost.
While in the area, visit Jesse Owens State Park, where several improvements have recently been made. There are ten new cabins showing three distinct architectural styles inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. Their campground has expanded to 50 full hook-up RV sites.
Don’t forget to stop by the Miners Memorial Park on St. Rt. 78 to see the Big Muskie bucket, which could pick up over 300 tons of soil and rocks in a single bite in order to get to the high sulfur coal beneath. The Big Muskie was the largest dragline ever built for use in the coal fields. There’s a great place for a picnic nearby.
If you enjoy nature and wildlife, Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area is a great place for a day trip or to spend a weekend. Plan a drive to their new Visitors Center to learn more about the area.
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