The Buckeye State is full of natural wonders, from the islands of Lake Erie to the Appalachian foothills. While much beauty meets the eye in our state, one of the most stunning natural wonders exists mostly underground, only revealing itself to the initiated who know where it surfaces. While it may sound like we're talking about some sort of exotic beast, I'm talking about natural springs. Ohio is home to a number of natural springs, but one area in Jeromesville is especially rich in this resource... they built a whole park around spring-fed ponds and streams! This lovely slice of paradise is Cool Springs Wildlife Conservation Park, and it spans a whopping 192 acres. Grab your hiking boots and prepare for adventure, because this pretty spot is calling your name.

Hills, forests, and a five-foot waterfall are the features that often draw hikers to Cool Springs Wildlife Conservation Park, but as the name implies, its natural springs are secretly the main attraction in the park. This natural feature has kept the park verdant and lush since the days of Johnny Appleseed, and that's not just a random historical marker to prove how long locals have taken advantage of the resources near Jeromesville. No, John "Johnny Appleseed" Chapman actually planted apple trees here back in the day. This legacy of using spring water to fuel farming continues today, as the park trails wind past actively farmed fields.

While 50 acres of the park are farmland, the rest of this landscape encompasses grassland, forest, and marsh, with three distinct spring-fed ponds on the property. They're great for fishing, and the clarity of the water will absolutely dazzle you. If fishing isn't your vibe, you might enjoy treating the ponds as a backdrop for a casual picnic.

This landscape is wet, thanks not just to the natural springs but also to the button bush swamps and Black Fork River that divide the property. You'll want to wear waterproof boots for your hike, as the landscape can get rather moist after a heavy rain raises the local water table. Don't be surprised if you see water-loving species like beaver hanging out down here, and remember not to approach any indigenous wildlife you encounter. (That is especially true for beavers. These cute critters are rather territorial, and their bite force is roughly twice as powerful as ours. You don't want to make them mad!)

Cool Springs Wildlife Conservation Park is split down the middle by County Road 37, and both sides of the property have something to offer. Mature woodlands thrive in both areas, but the stand of white oaks on the east side of the property will take you back to a creek fed by the area's many natural springs. While it's best observed after a natural rainfall, I love stopping and admiring the spread of ferns even when the creek bed is muddy rather than wet.

And, of course, I can't send you out to an Ohio park without mentioning its waterfall! At only five feet in height, the trickle here is petite but beautiful. You'll likely hear the sound of its babbling waters before you spot it, but getting there is easy. Look for the park's spring-fed ponds... once you pass them, the trail will fork, and you'll want to take the left path.

This property is beautiful, but it's also intimate. Even locals in the Jeromesville area are often unaware of this park's existence, and it's pretty quiet during most visits. You might even find that you have the landscape all to yourself! And truth be told, even if you are one of several visitors, you might be able to traverse its 192 acres without encountering another hiker.

All in all, Cool Springs Wildlife Conservation Park is a worthy addition to any Ohio hiking bucket list. Its natural springs keep its water features clear and sparkling, and a hilly terrain makes it an adventurous workout for casual and practiced hikers alike.

If you decide to extend your trip in this area, you'll find plenty of natural attractions to fill your itinerary. With the Mohican River keeping the landscape lush, hiking is a treat in the region! Check out our favorite Mohican-area bed and breakfasts for some iconic and cozy accommodations.