Discover Jackson: Nature Trails, Lakes, and History

Jackson County offers year-round opportunities to enjoy lakes and trails while learning about local history. If you’re looking for a hotel for a trip to Jackson, you can start by focusing on nature trails, waterways, or historic sites. Options range from a path through a sandstone gorge to museums and historic sites.

Nature Trails, Rock Art, and Landscapes

At Leo Petroglyphs & Nature Preserve, a 0.5-mile trail leads through a gorge and along sandstone cliffs that are 20 to 65 feet high. The preserve’s rock art panel features 37 figurative carvings, including people, birds, animals, human footprints, a fish, a snake, and other motifs carved into a sandstone outcrop. The preserve is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its sandstone petroglyphs.

For a longer loop, try the Wellston Bike Path. It is just under 2 miles long and can be combined with the trail at Lake Alma to make a 5-mile loop. Lake Alma State Park covers 292 acres in Jackson and Vinton counties. It includes a 60-acre lake, a wooded valley, and hiking trails.

Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve is home to populations of bigleaf magnolia and umbrella magnolia. Both species are listed in the state of Ohio. Each natural area has its own character: Leo Preserve centers on its gorge, sandstone, and rock art, while Lake Alma and Lake Katharine are known for their distinctive landscapes and natural features.

Lakes and Activities on the Water

The acreage figures for the two state parks refer to different things: Jackson Lake State Park covers 106 acres, and its lake is a popular fishing spot. Lake Alma State Park covers 292 acres in total, while the lake itself spans 60 acres. There are swimming beaches for family outings at Lake Alma and Jackson Lake. Jackson County’s lakes are also suitable for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Jackson City Reservoir is also known as Hammertown Lake. The lake has three boat launch ramps and parking areas. It can be reached from the north via County Road 76 (State Street) and from the south via County Road 10 (South Street). An Ohio administrative rule, most recently updated on May 5, 2025, restricts boats to those with electric motors. Because access information and facilities can change, it’s worth checking the latest information before you go.

Industrial History and Cultural Heritage

Buckeye Furnace is a reconstructed, charcoal-fired blast furnace from the Hanging Rock Iron Region. The site covers 270 acres. The furnace was built in 1852 and last operated in 1894. At Buckeye Furnace, you can visit reconstructed furnace buildings, a museum, and nature trails. The site combines a tangible piece of iron-industry history with other features to explore.

The Welsh-American Heritage Museum is housed in the old Welsh Congregational Church, built in 1868. The collection includes items brought to the region by immigrants from Cardiganshire, Wales, between 1818 and the 1860s. Salt Lick Village includes the McCoy Cabin, a reconstructed salt furnace, the historic Scioto Township House, and a small blacksmith shop.

Cooper Hollow Wildlife Area also has historic connections: the historic Kanawha Trail runs through the area. The remains of the Madison Iron Furnace are near the headquarters. The Jones Museum’s mission is to inform visitors about the history of Jackson County, Ohio, and preserve historic artifacts from the area.

Events and Regional Highlights

The Jackson Apple Festival takes place each September in downtown Jackson. If you’re planning your trip around the festival, check the dates for the edition you plan to attend. Jackson County’s Amish business community includes artisans, craftspeople, farmers, and bakers who offer goods and services to tourists.

The Welsh Scenic Byway is 64 miles long and runs through Jackson and Gallia counties. It is part of Ohio’s Scenic Byway program. Along with the museums, natural areas, and trails, it offers another way to experience the region when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Jackson, Lorain, Athens County, Greene, Ashland County, Geauga County, Pike County, Mercer County

For the overall travel overview: Ohio.