Zaleski State Forest

Welcome to Ohio's second largest State Forest, the Zaleski State Forest located in Athens and Vinton Counties.

Forest History: Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries iron mining and coal mining left a heavy scar on the land that is now Zaleski State Forest. During the era of the Great Depression the Civilian Conservation Corps worked hard to help restore the forest and build it's many amenities. Wildlife: Zaleski State Forest helps protect the home of numerous wild critters including deer, squirrels, raccoons, foxes, and wild turkeys. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors Zaleski State Forest boasts over 50 miles of trails including the Zaleski State Forest Backpack Trail and an abandoned Baltimore and Ohio railroad corridor, 16 campsites, and so much more. Come on out and explore.