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Ohio
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Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Southeast Ohio Region
Avondale State Wildlife Area
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AVONDALE STATE WILDLIFE AREA
AVONDALE STATE WILDLIFE AREA
Roseville, Ohio   43777
(lat:39.8082 lon:-82.1142) map location
The Avondale State Wildlife Area in Ohio is a serene and picturesque nature reserve, teeming with an abundance of plant and animal life. Spanning across vast acres of untouched woodland, meadows, and wetlands, it offers a diverse range of habitats for visitors to explore. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy engaging in activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography. The area is particularly renowned for its vibrant bird population, with over 200 species having been documented here, making it a haven for birdwatchers of all levels of experience. As visitors stroll through the tranquil trails, they may come across deer, wild turkeys, and other mammals roaming freely in their natural habitat. With its impressive biodiversity and serene atmosphere, the Avondale State Wildlife Area provides a captivating escape into nature for all who venture here.
History of the Area
Avondale State Wildlife Area is located in southeastern Ohio, near the town of Athens. It encompasses approximately 1,167 acres of diverse habitats including forests, wetlands, and grasslands.

The history of Avondale State Wildlife Area dates back many years. The area was originally used for agriculture, with several farms operating in the region. However, during the Great Depression in the 1930s, many farmers abandoned their land due to economic hardships.

In 1935, the Works Progress Administration (WPA), a New Deal agency established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, purchased several abandoned farms in the Avondale region. The WPA aimed to restore the land and provide employment to individuals affected by the economic downturn.

Under the WPA, the area was reforested as part of a reclamation project. Thousands of trees, predominantly oak and hickory, were planted, creating a new forested landscape. Today, these reforested areas form the core of Avondale State Wildlife Area.

In 1965, the State of Ohio purchased the land from the WPA, establishing the Avondale State Wildlife Area. It was designated as a wildlife management area, primarily intended to provide habitat for various wildlife species and offer recreational opportunities for hunting, trapping, and wildlife viewing.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), which manages the wildlife area, has implemented various habitat management practices to maintain and enhance the wildlife diversity. These practices include controlled burns, wetland management, and timber harvests to create a balanced ecosystem that supports a wide range of plants and animals.

Avondale State Wildlife Area continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its diverse habitats attract a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, beavers, coyotes, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and hunting (during designated seasons and with proper permits).

The history of Avondale State Wildlife Area exemplifies the importance of land reclamation and habitat restoration efforts in preserving and protecting natural environments for future generations.




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Area Campgrounds
WALKAbOUT Creek Campground
7375 Sugargrove Road
Chandlersville, OH
740-868-2430
National Road Campground
2850 South Pleasant Grove Road
Zanesville, OH
740-819-0226
Wolfie's Campground
101 Buckeye Drive
Zanesville, OH
740-454-0925
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Tackle Box Drive Thru
11345 State Route 37 E
New Lexington, OH
(740) 342-3328
D & D Bait
849 Pine St
Zanesville, OH
(740) 452-9905
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
businesss listing main photo
Hidden Cave Cabin - Rockbridge, OH
Cottages and Cabins
Hidden Cave Cabin is an authentic log cabin with 2 bedrooms in a private wooded setting. It is located on one of the most scenic drives in Hocking Hills and just 3.6 miles to Rock House and less than 10 miles to Conkle's Hollow and Old Man's Cave.
32.2 miles from park*
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Cottages and Cabins
Trickle Creek offers luxury cabins in Hocking Hills. The cabins are situated on nearly 236 acres of secluded cabin rentals in the deep wooded ravines in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Hocking County, Ohio.
26.8 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
1. Start by heading west on Interstate 70.
2. Take exit 79 for OH-60 toward Dresden/Zanesville.
3. Turn left onto OH-60 S/Moxahala Ave.
4. Continue to follow OH-60 S.
5. After approximately 8 miles, turn left onto OH-208 E.
6. Continue on OH-208 E for about 10 miles.
7. Turn right onto OH-376 S.
8. After about 2.5 miles, turn left onto Twp Hwy 97.
9. Drive for approximately 2 miles, and the entrance to Avondale State Wildlife Area will be on your left.

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Ohio
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Ohio State Parks

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