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Ohio
27

Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Southwest Ohio Region
John Bryan State Park
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John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
River View
John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
River View
John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
River View
John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
River View
John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
River View
John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
River View
John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
Entrance Sign
John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
Blue Heron
John Bryan State Park John Bryan State Park © Lonnie Williams
Dragonfly
John Bryan State Park © Brad Michaelson
John Bryan State Park © Brad Michaelson
John Bryan State Park © Lori McClure
John Bryan State Park © Lori McClure
John Bryan State Park © Lori McClure
John Bryan State Park © Lori McClure
John Bryan State Park © Lori McClure
John Bryan State Park © Lori McClure
John Bryan State Park © Lori McClure
John Bryan State Park © Lori McClure
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JOHN BRYAN STATE PARK
JOHN BRYAN STATE PARK
3790 Ohio 370
Yellow Springs, Ohio   45387
(lat:39.7892 lon:-83.8539) map location

Phone: (937) 767-1274
Reservations: 866-644-6727
John Bryan is the most scenic state park in western Ohio. The park contains a remarkable limestone gorge cut by the Little Miami River which is designated as a state and national scenic river. A portion of the gorge itself is designated as a national natural landmark.
Nature of the Area
Much of the history of John Bryan State Park is "written in the rocks" of the Little Miami River gorge. Entering the area at Clifton, at 980 feet above sea level, the Little Miami drops 130 feet through layer upon layer of bedrock. Each layer has a story to tell of times when the area was covered by warm, shallow seas or was a part of a muddy river delta or was scoured by tons of slow-moving glacial ice. Each layer has its own characteristics as well. Some of the shale layers are easily worn away by the forces of erosion, causing undercutting in the cliff face. The more erosion-resistant dolomite or limestone rocks above are weakened by this undercutting and large "slump blocks" fall away, creating unusual rock formations including Steamboat Rock. Springs feeding small waterfalls and cascades are common.

The glaciers did not only affect the land forms, they also had an effect on the vegetation found here. As the last glacier retreated and the climate warmed, the cool shaded recesses of the gorge valley provided a suitable habitat for several Canadian plant species: Canada yew, redberry elder, mountain maple, arborvitae and even a few hemlocks.

More than 100 different trees and shrubs have been identified in the park. More than 340 species of wildflowers grow wild here. Snow trillium, Virginia bluebells, bellworts, wild ginger, Dutchman's breeches, Jack-in-the-pulpit and wild columbines are only a few to be seen in the park. The dominating trees are oaks and maples, but large numbers of sycamores and cottonwoods can be found along the river. Wildlife is also abundant in the park. For instance, more than 90 different varieties of birds live in or visit the park area during the year. To fully appreciate the beauty of John Bryan, one needs to experience it during all four seasons.
History of the Area
Some of the first people to experience the area's beauty were the Moundbuilders, and later, the Shawnee Indians. Just five miles south of Yellow Springs, approximately where the town of Oldtown is now, was the site of Old Chillicothe, one of the leading Shawnee settlements in Ohio. The great Shawnee warrior, Tecumseh, was a frequent visitor here and to the nearby James Galloway House, which has been kept intact by the Greene County Historical Society.

This portion of the Little Miami River was a vital, economical source of power for the early settlers in the 1800s. The Cincinnati-Pittsburgh stagecoach road served the area and several enterprising settlers began establishing water-powered industries in the gorge. The town of Clifton prospered from the textile mill, grist mills and sawmills located there.

By the late 1800s, most of the industrial activity in the area ceased. Water was no longer an economical source of power and many mills were abandoned. However, one of the grist mills built in 1869 is still in operation. Located in the village of Clifton, the Clifton Mill is open to visitors.

The park takes its name from an ambitious businessman who was responsible for the preservation of much of the area as a state preserve. In 1896, Bryan purchased 335 acres along the gorge and called these acres, "Riverside Farm."

John Bryan had a great respect for the natural world. In 1918, he bequeathed Riverside Farm to the state of Ohio, "...to be cultivated by the state as a forestry, botanic and wildlife reserve park and experiment station," which would bear his name. In May of 1925, John Bryan's land became one of the state's first forest parks. In 1949, John Bryan State Park was transferred to the newly created ODNR Division of Parks and Recreation. John Bryan State Park and the adjoining Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve overlook the beautiful Little Miami River gorge that has been designated as a National Natural Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Passes
Ohio does not have an annual pass and does not charge entrance fees to state parks.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
GeneralLand, acres752
 Water, acres-12
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trail, miles11
 Picnickingyes
 Picnic Shelters, #2
 Nature Programsyes
CampingPrimitive, #50
 Electric Sites, #10
 Pets Permittedyes
 Dumpstationyes
 Group Camp, capacity100
 Rent-A-Teepee, #1
WinterSleddingyes
 Cross-Country Skiingyes
Camping
The family camp area at John Bryan has 100 non-electric partially shaded sites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, latrines, drinking water and a dump station. Campers with pets are permitted on any site. A 100-person group camp area is available for organized groups on a reservation basis.
Lodge
The day-use lodge is available for rentals throughout the year. The lodge is equipped with two fireplaces, restroom facilities, large screened-in porch and kitchen with stove, refrigerator and a 50-cup coffee maker.
Swimming
John Bryan State Park in Ohio offers a variety of swimming options for visitors to enjoy. The park is home to a beautiful lake where visitors can take a refreshing dip on hot summer days. The swimming area is surrounded by sandy beaches, providing the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring a safe swimming experience for everyone. In addition to the lake, there is also a swimming pool available for use. This heated pool is open to the public and offers a great alternative to the lake for those who prefer a pool setting. Whether you prefer the natural beauty of the lake or the convenience of the pool, John Bryan State Park provides a wonderful swimming experience for visitors of all ages.
Boating
The Little Miami River is excellent for canoeing. A launch area near the park on Jacoby Road provides access to this scenic river. As the river twists and bends, visitors will discover steep rock cliffs, towering sycamores and many historic sites along the way.
Fishing
The Little Miami River provides excellent stream fishing opportunities for anglers. Smallmouth bass, rock bass and panfish are in abundance. Several area are designated for bow hunting only. A valid Ohio fishing and/or license is required. Fishing is prohibited in the state nature preserve.



Picnicking
The park has four different picnic areas: upper, lower, Wingo and Orton. The lower area and Orton area each have a shelterhouse available on a first come, first-served basis. All areas have tables, grills and latrines. Some areas also have drinking water.
Bicycling
Biking is permitted on multi-use trails. Be aware, some paths are shared with hikers and horseback riders.

The park offers 10 miles of mountain biking terrain for experienced cyclists. Proceed carefully due to challenging conditions.

Cyclists should be cautious as the area's natural beauty can distract from potential hazards along the trail.

Riding after dark isn't allowed; plan your trip accordingly to avoid getting caught out in low light conditions.

Always wear a helmet when cycling here, even if you're an expert rider - safety first!

Remember that weather may affect trail quality significantly so check local forecasts before setting off.

It's important not just for personal enjoyment but also preservation of wildlife habitats to stick strictly to marked trails only.

Please respect other users by controlling speed and announcing presence while passing them safely on these shared routes.
Rock Climbing and Rappelling
A rock climbing and rappelling area has been established within the park. Please stop at the park office to register for an available site. Organized groups may reserve the rappelling site by calling the park office at (513) 767-1274.
Trails
Nature lovers can enjoy any of the ten different trails found in the park. Trails follow the scenic river gorge and meander through majestic woodlands. A portion of the Buckeye Trail travels through the park. Caution should be exercised along the rim of the gorge.
Birding
Located in Ohio, this park offers a variety of birding options for enthusiasts. It is home to several species including the Red-tailed Hawk, Eastern Screech-Owl and Barred Owl. The area's diverse habitats such as mature forests and riverside ecosystems attract different types of birds throughout the year making it an ideal spot for bird watching.

The Little Miami River that flows through the park attracts waterfowl like Mallards while its riparian woodlands are perfect spots to find songbirds like Warblers during migration seasons. In winter months, one can expect sightings of Woodpeckers or even Bald Eagles near open waters.

Bird watchers also have access to various trails within the park which provide opportunities for spotting other wildlife too along with birds.
Area Attractions
Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve is located adjacent to the park. The preserve contains many outstanding geological and botanical features for visitors to enjoy.

Within a short distance are the Blue Jacket Outdoor Drama, Clifton Mill, the Air Force Museum and the Galloway Cabin in Xenia. Glen Helen Nature Preserve, Buck Creek State Park and Caesar Creek State Park are also nearby. There is a 10-mile bikeway from Xenia to Yellow Springs. The Little Miami State Park is a narrow corridor along the Little Miami River. Spring Valley Wildlife Area operated by the ODNR Division of Wildlife offers hunting and fishing opportunities for sportsmen and is also known as one of the best birdwatching areas in southwestern Ohio.


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
August 3 Fabulous Park - nicely kept up. by RitaM
park review stars; one to five The North Rim trail seems to be kept up nicely. The trail across the river from this has a LOT of fallen trees across it. It is challenging to climb over some of them. One hike a tree fell on top of some trees who were already blocking it. It was impassable until my husband cleared some of it away. It is a beautiful trail with nice clean water coming from springs but it is really challenging for people with small children and involves some fancy footwork for adults
July 24 Brings back memories... by grc171
park review stars; one to five I remember camping there as a kid..we lived there for a bit before we moved to Wright-Patt...lot of fun..I remember JB the tortoise, could he still be alive, I got a junior naturalist patch and remember swinging on vines over the gorge...ah..good times.
October 17 Stunning Scenery by Jack Papes
park review stars; one to five I found myself in awe of the breathtaking topography afforded to us during an autumn hike along the Little Miami River. A seemingly pristine ecosystem, the Clifton Gorge is a jewel hidden amongst the farm fields which populate this area. My photos, which only do it partial justice, are posted here: http://www.n2junkie.com/gallery/flash/ohio_flash_pages/101109_clifton_gorge/ Additionally, I considered our peddle through the chain of mountain bike trails in the park to be very enjoyable. Even though the terrain geared them towards the novice, numerous man-made obstacles, combined with the total length, provided a few thrills along with a good work out. I look forward to a return to this park. Jack Papes Akron, Ohio
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Directions
3790 State Route 370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

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Ohio
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Ohio State Parks

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