Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Brush Creek State Forest encompasses over 13,000 acres of heavily forested terrain located in Adams and Highland counties of southern Ohio. Characterized by rolling hills, dense hardwoods, and several creeks including its namesake Brush Creek, the forest supports a rich ecosystem with oak, hickory, maple, and beech trees dominating the landscape. Wildlife is abundant, providing hunters and wildlife watchers opportunities to encounter white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various small mammals and songbirds. The area has historic roots tied to early 20th-century reforestation efforts after extensive logging cleared much of the region. Today, Brush Creek is managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources primarily for sustainable timber production, wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation. The forest offers rustic campgrounds, dispersed camping spots, and multiple trail systems, including several multi-use trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Brush Creek area appeals to anglers with fishing opportunities in its small streams and the nearby Brush Creek Lake. Visitors appreciate the relatively remote and quiet setting, ideal for immersive nature experiences close to Cincinnati and Columbus. Hunting seasons attract many visitors during fall and winter, while spring and summer are popular for water-based activities and bird watching.
