Here in Ohio, our old growth forests are slowly (and sadly) disappearing.

Fortunately, however, one of the state’s largest old growth forests is well-preserved—and many of the trees are more than 400-years-old. Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve in Marshallville, Ohio is a hidden gem only the most ambitious Ohio explorers know about. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and a must-see for anyone who enjoys basking in the wonder of nature. Take a look:

Tucked away in Wayne County, you'll find more than 200 acres of some of Ohio's oldest trees at Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve.
Ohio Hiking Trails and Historical Sites./Facebook
It's located at 13240 Fox Lake Rd., Marshallville, OH 44645.
The all boardwalk trail system makes the preserve easy to explore. You can either take the Short Loop or Long Loop.
Ohio Hiking Trails and Historical Sites./Facebook
Please note: The preserve closes at dusk.
According to the ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, some of the trees have grown to be 120 ft. tall with a diameter of 4 - 5 ft. Most of them are 400-years-old.
Ohio Hiking Trails and Historical Sites./Facebook
Additionally, many of the trees grow to 40-50 ft. tall before the first limbs extend.

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Although these trees began growing before the Pilgrims came to America on the Mayflower, they've continued to flourish for centuries.
Ohio Hiking Trails and Historical Sites./Facebook
Over the years, the site has been referred to as Graber Woods and "Big Woods." Today, it's named after the Johnson family. Mrs. Clela Johnson gifted the woods in memory of her late husband, Andrew C. Johnson, to the Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves.
The largest trees in the forest are white oaks, red oaks and hickories. During your walk, you'll notice that many of the trees are labeled.
Ohio Hiking Trails and Historical Sites./Facebook
Although the oldest trees are dying, they're being replaced with shade-tolerant trees, such as sugar maple and American beech.
A walk through this old-growth forest is serene, inspiring and downright magical. You'll want to sit and stay awhile.
Ohio Hiking Trails and Historical Sites./Facebook
(As an added bonus, the wildflowers that bloom here in the spring are absolutely stunning.)

Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve is located at 13240 Fox Lake Rd., Marshallville, OH 44645. Have you ever explored this forest before? If so, share your photos and experiences with us!

For more nature sites to explore in Ohio, take these 5 hikes and check out our friends on Facebook, Ohio Hiking Trails and Historical Sites.

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