This 75-acre preserve, located in the Sugar Grove Region of the Hocking Hills, offers a challenging hike to the top of a dry ridgeline with stunning views of the Hocking River Valley to the east. The horseshoe-shaped ridge is home to a thriving chestnut oak community, along with Virginia and pitch pine, sourwood, and a rich heath layer featuring mountain laurel, blueberry, deerberry, and the state-listed flame azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum).
The cooler, north-facing slopes below the cliffs provide an ideal environment for eastern hemlock, black birch, and a state-listed member of the heath family—the great rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum). This area likely hosts the largest native population of this rhododendron in Ohio. The peak blooming period usually occurs in late June to early July.
This nature preserve required a permit until recently. Now there is no permit required.
The preserve is adjacent to Wahkeena Nature Preserve.
History
The preserve was officially established in 2006 by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
The land was acquired in partnership with Appalachia Ohio Alliance and the Ohio Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. The pre‑acquisition ownership is not well documented in the sources I found. I did not find a clear record of who held title to the land just before Appalachia Ohio Alliance and The Nature Conservancy acquired it. There was no detailed account I located about prior private use (e.g. farming, logging, any settlement) of the specific area that is now Rhododendron Cove.
Visit Fairfield County notes that the area was “dedicated in April of 1996” as “Rhododendron Cove” for its biodiversity, particularly its rhododendron concentration. Visit Fairfield County
Trails
The website mentions 1.2 miles of trail, but it actually measured 2.25 miles, including a stroll through the pollinator gardens near the parking lot. Technically, there are 3 trails: the orange loop, the blue loop, and the nature walk thru the flower area.
The trails are labeled as "strenuous," so sturdy hiking shoes are a must (flip-flops definitely won't cut it). Depending on your fitness level, you might find them more moderate. The path includes some uphill climbs and a tight squeeze through rocky cliffs. There are a few steep drop-offs.
How to Get to Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve
The easiest way to reach Rhododendron Cove State Nature Preserve is by following the brown signs off Highway 33. Avoid relying on Google Maps, as it might mislead you.
2730 Pump Station Rd SE, Lancaster, OH 43130
After passing the compressor station, turn into the small gravel lot that appears to be for utility workers. Look down the lane, and you’ll spot the preserve’s sign, almost hidden from view.
Conclusion
We hiked this state nature preserve earlier this year. I wish we had made it back for the rhododendron blooms in June/July, but I was unable to go because my right knee was replaced in June. So next year, I guess. I really enjoyed the hike and the solitude. It is very peaceful and beautiful. It is definitely worth the trip. Also, check out Wahkeena Nature Preserve. I completed a blog last year about Wahkeena; look it up.
