Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve

Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve

209 Hawk Hill Road West Union, Ohio 45693

Official Website
Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve map

About this Location

 The 130-acre Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve is an outstanding example of a globally rare, post oak opening habitat. Post and blackjack oaks are scattered throughout the preserve. This rare habitat supports dozens of rare species including the most extensive population of rattlesnake-master in the state.

Prairie plants, prairie dock, and spiked blazing-star are also unusually abundant at this site. Other rare plants include spider milkweed, prairie false indigo, pink milkwort, and blue hearts. Little bluestem is the dominant prairie grass. With the abundance of summer wildflowers, Chaparral Prairie is loaded with butterflies and moths. Several rare species, such as Edward’s hairstreak, Olive hairstreak, and Unexpected Cycnia moth, have been observed in the preserve.

In 2015, the non-profit conservation organization, Arc of Appalachia partnered with the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves in purchasing 60 acres.

Notable Trails

There are over 2 miles of hiking trails at Chaparral Prairie.
Bald Hill Trail – 0.7 mile
Cedar Barren Trail – 0.6 mile
Hawk Hill Trail – 0.7 mile
Prairie View Trail – 0.2 mile

Content from Official Website