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Ohio
62

Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Northeast Ohio Region
Leesville State Wildlife Area
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Leesville State Wildlife Area At The Marina © ANGIE HELCBERGIER
Leesville State Wildlife Area Leesville Lake © ANGIE HELCBERGIER
Leesville State Wildlife Area Leesville Lake © ANGIE HELCBERGIER
Leesville State Wildlife Area Leesville Lake © ANGIE HELCBERGIER
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LEESVILLE STATE WILDLIFE AREA
LEESVILLE STATE WILDLIFE AREA
Carrollton, Ohio   44615
(lat:40.4772 lon:-81.172) map location
The Leesville State Wildlife Area in Ohio is a beautiful and diverse natural landscape that encompasses approximately 4,497 acres of land. It offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities and is known for its abundant wildlife and rich biodiversity. From hiking and birdwatching to fishing and hunting, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of this wildlife area. The picturesque forests, wetlands, and grasslands provide a home to various species of birds, mammals, and plant life, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. With its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, the Leesville State Wildlife Area is a haven for outdoor adventure and exploration.
History of the Area
Leesville State Wildlife Area, located in Carroll County, Ohio, has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The area was initially settled by European immigrants who were attracted to the region due to its fertile soil and abundant natural resources.

In the early 1800s, settlers established small communities around Leesville Lake, which was formed by damming the eastern branch of the Sandy Creek. The lake became an important source of water for various industries, including sawmills, gristmills, and ironworks. The community around the lake grew, and by the mid-1800s, it was known as Leesville, named after a prominent settler named John Lee.

Over time, the industrial activity declined, and by the early 1900s, Leesville became primarily an agricultural community. However, in the 1930s, the region experienced a significant transformation due to the creation of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD). The MWCD was established to address the region's flood control and water supply issues.

As part of its efforts, the MWCD began constructing a series of reservoirs throughout the Muskingum River basin, one of which was Leesville Lake. The construction of the dam and reservoir started in 1936 and was completed by 1939. The creation of Leesville Lake not only helped control flooding but also provided recreational opportunities and enhanced wildlife habitats.

In the decades following the completion of Leesville Lake, the area surrounding the reservoir gradually transitioned from agricultural lands to state-owned property focused on wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation. In 1970, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) designated Leesville State Wildlife Area, encompassing approximately 4,700 acres around the reservoir.

Since then, Leesville State Wildlife Area has served as a haven for various wildlife species, including waterfowl, songbirds, deer, turkey, and small game. The area offers a range of recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, boating, birding, camping, and hiking. The ODNR actively manages the wildlife area to maintain the ecological balance and ensure its long-term sustainability.

Leesville State Wildlife Area, with its combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance, continues to be an important destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers in Ohio.


Location
Leesville State Wildlife Area is located near Carrollton, Dover and New Philadelphia


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Area Campgrounds
A1 Twinvalley Campground
2330 Apollo Road Southeast
Carrollton, OH
330-739-2811
Tappan Lake Park
84000 Mallarnee Road
Deersville, OH
740-922-3649
Carrollton KOA Holiday
4145 Fresno Road Northwest
Carrollton, OH
888-562-0315
Atwood Lake Park
9500 Lakeview Road
Mineral City, OH
Wood's Tall Timber Resort
1921 Tall Timber Road Northeast
New Philadelphia, OH
330-602-4000
ABC Country Camping & Cabins
4105 Fresno Road Northwest
Carrollton, OH
330-735-3220
Area Fishing Related Businesses
D D Bait Tackle
7055 Autumn Rd SW
Carrollton, OH
(330) 627-4600
Area Cabins and Lodges
Atwood Lake Resort & Cnfrnce
2650 Lodge Rd SW
Sherrodsville, OH
(330) 735-2211
Atwood Lake Resort and Conference Center: Reservations & Information
2650 Lodge Rd
Dellroy, OH
(330) 735-2211
Harrison Hills Camp Resort
Gem Rd
Carrollton, OH
(330) 627-2371
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
businesss listing main photo
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.
94.6 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
1. Start by getting on US-30 E from State Rte 43 N.
2. Continue on US-30 E. Take OH-172 E and OH-183 S to US-30 E in West Township.
3. Merge onto US-30 E.
4. Take the OH-172 exit toward Minerva.
5. Turn left onto OH-172 E (signs for Minerva/Robertsville).
6. Continue to follow OH-172 E.
7. Turn right onto OH-183 S.
8. Continue on OH-183 S. Drive to Fox Ave SW in Leetonia.
9. Continue straight onto US-30 E.
10. Turn left onto OH-9 N.
11. Turn right onto Walnut St.
12. Turn left onto Cherry Valley Rd.
13. Continue onto Steele Hollow Rd.
14. Turn right onto Fox Ave SW.
15. Continue on the road until you reach the Leesville State Wildlife Area.

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Ohio
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Ohio State Parks

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