Last Updated on April 7, 2021
Ohio has many beautiful locations for the nature and wildlife photographer. The Buckeye Trail offers a variety of natural habitats and landscapes to suit every photographer’s needs. From the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, to fertile farmlands, and rushing rivers- Ohio is home to some of the most spectacular nature photography spots. The Buckeye Trail Corridor winds through it all preserving an intact forest ecosystem for future generations.
The Best Places In Ohio For Nature And Wildlife Photographers
Buckeye Trail
The Buckeye Trail is one of the longest hiking trails in Ohio. The trail winds through diverse natural habitats, small towns along the way and offers endless opportunities for photography. Buckeye Trailways offers numerous different trailheads along the way with a variety of events throughout the year. The trail is a non-motorized trail that meanders through both urban and rural areas.
Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountains are one of the most spectacular areas to photograph in Ohio. The highest elevation is Pike Ridge High Point located within the Pike National Forest. The Pike Ridge area is home to some of the best views and wildlife photography spots. The trailhead is located near Ashland and offers ample parking for photographers.
Rivers of Ohio
The Buckeye State has many streams and rivers that flow through the hills and mountains. The Cuyahoga River is one of Ohio’s most famous rivers that runs through Cleveland. The Cuyahoga River is one of the most photogenic sites with many amazing spots to photograph in nature and wildlife photography. The Cuyahoga River and the interconnecting Little Cuyahoga River are a site to behold; however, pollution has become a serious issue along the riverbanks.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is home to some of Ohio’s best nature and wildlife photography locations.
The Cuyahoga River runs through the valley creating a series of waterfalls. The most famous waterfall is the Brandywine Falls. The Brandywine Falls is popular for its beauty and is one of the most photographed natural areas in Ohio.
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers outdoor recreational activities and features a variety of natural habitats, rivers, and flora and fauna to photograph in nature and wildlife photography.
Virginia Kendall Area
The Virginia Kendall area of Ohio boasts great natural vistas, cliffs, valleys and wetlands. This area is best known for its wildlife photography opportunities since it is home to many outdoor photography enthusiasts. The “Virginia Kendall” area is located south of Cuyahoga Valley National Park approximately 30 miles from Cleveland. This area offers some great spots to photograph nature and wildlife including the Shaker Trace Trail, which meanders through protected pine groves and lakes.
Wetlands Conservation Areas
The Ohio wetlands are home to a variety of wildlife including beaver, bobcat, red fox, and Canada goose. The best place to visit for nature and wildlife photography is the Hawkeye Marsh Wildlife Area in Brookfield Township. This area protects one of Ohio’s top five best known wetlands.
Conclusion
Nature and wildlife photography has been a part of Ohio’s history since the 19th century when Charles Shain was painting and documenting nature in the state. Charles Shain’s work was displayed in galleries and museums across North America. Today, Ohio still has many great outdoor and nature photographers.
Ohio offers a variety of great spots for the nature and wildlife photographer. From lush woodlands to picturesque valleys; Ohio contains it all. The Buckeye State is a photographer’s dream and the perfect place to capture your next masterpiece.