Blue Rock State Forest

About Blue Rock State Forest and State Park

See all hotspots at Blue Rock State Forest and State Park

Most of the marginally productive farmland was originally acquired by the federal government during the 1930s under the Resettlement Administration. Surface ownership was later transferred to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry while the federal government retained a three-fourths interest in the oil and gas rights. Subsequent reforestation and the application of forest management and protection practices have transformed low-quality farmland into one of Ohio’s most beautiful and productive forests.

  • 4,578 acres in Muskingum County
  • 26 miles of bridle trails

In 1949, the management of Cutler Lake and the adjoining recreation facilities was transferred to the Division of Parks and Recreation.

Notable Trails

Blue Rock State Forest Trails
Trails in the Blue Rock State Forest include:
Blue Bridle Trail – 3.2 miles
Red Bridle Trail – 2.96 miles
White Bridle Trail – 1.17 miles
Yellow Bridle Trail – 1.35 miles
Green Bridle Trail – 2.31 miles
Black Bridle Trail – 3.12 miles

Blue Rock State Forest is only 15 minutes from The Wilds and makes a good stop to see woodland birds in this area. In the winter, Forest Road 8 is closed to vehicles between Cutler Lake Road and Poverty Ridge Road as it climbs a steep ridge and is difficult to plow. The White Bridle Trail makes it a very pleasant winter hike, especially when there is no snow cover. If you are visiting The Wilds and are looking for a place to walk, Blue Rock State Park and Blue Rock State Forest provide good options.

Content from Blue Rock State Forest and State Park Official Website and Ken Ostermiller