Hueston Woods State
Nature Preserve
Butler County, Ohio Old-Growth Forest Beech and sugar maple trees comprise 80% of the trees in the preserve, an old-growth forest located within Hueston Woods State Park. The “Big Woods” are a remnant of the beech-maple forests that once covered much of Ohio. Miami University faculty and students have conducted numerous ecological studies in the 200-acre woodland. It was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1967 and a State Nature Preserve in 1973. Protected by the Ohio Department of Natural ResourcesMatthew Hueston settled the area in 1797 but preserved a remnant of the native forest. Morris Taylor, a conservationist, purchased the woods in the 1930s following the death of the last Hueston descendants. The state has owned and maintained the land since 1941. To support the nature preserve volunteer or contribute to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. | How to Find Hueston WoodsThe woodland is located on the state park’s Main Loop Road, between Acton Lake and the golf course. For location details, click here. |
