Scioto Trail State Forest

Welcome to the Scioto Trail State Forest located in Ross and Pike Counties.

Forest History: During the first World War, the military used the land that is now Scioto Trail State Forest as an artillery range for Camp Sherman. Six-inch howitzers and 75 millimeter guns were set up on the banks of the Scioto River and fired at various targets along the shores of Lake Caldwell and Lake Stewart. Once the war ended the military had no more use for the land and the State of Ohio began to make the first purchases in 1922 at an average price of $7.70 per acre (Still doesn't beat the Alaskan purchase of 3 cents an acres!). The forest was named after a Native American trail that ran through the forest that connected what is now the town of Chillicothe to what is now the town of Portsmouth. During the Depression Era, the Civilian Conservation Corps worked hard to restore the forest and build it's amenities.

Wildlife: Scioto Trail State Forest helps protect the home of numerous wild critters including deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, and wild turkeys. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors Scioto Trail State Forest boasts over 26 miles of multipurpose trails, 18 miles of gravel roads, access to Scioto Trail State Park, and so much more. Come on out and explore.