Between Fort Hill and Bainbridge, you will be among various land holdings that comprise the Arc of Appalachia Preserve region: preserved forest lands filled with springs, caves, rare plants, and surprising rock cliff formations. Their headquarters is at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary and the Appalachian Forest Museum, 7660 Cave Road, Bainbridge, OH 45612, between Barretts Mills and The Point; phone: 937-365-1935.

Since 1995, the Arc has been acquiring and reuniting south-central Ohio forest lands for preservation – with the help of many dedicated supporters, donors, and volunteers. The efforts have steadily grown. Arc Director Nancy Stranahan:

The miracle is how many people rose to the vision. I would say probably about 1000 households are what have put the sanctuary on the map. And we have about 2000 acres here, and about 5 years ago the Highlands Nature Sanctuary idea spread to 13 other preserves. We now have 14 preserves in a 5 county area in southern Ohio, helping to keep green in Ohio’s future for our children’s children’s children. We either do it now, or it’s not going to happen.

The Arc of Appalachia has historic lodgings for rent among its many preserved land holdings.

Fort Hill, Paint Valley

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