Bison Hollow Preserve

Tucked away in the picturesque Hocking Hills region of Ohio, Bison Hollow Preserve is a hidden gem that spans Hocking and Vinton counties. Covering over 1,000 acres along the Queer Creek watershed, this nature lover’s paradise protects the East Fork of Queer Creek, a Coldwater Habitat stream designated as Outstanding State Waters – the highest classification in Ohio. It is believed that Bison Hollow was one of the last habitats of the now-extinct Eastern Woodland Bison, also known as the Eastern Wood Bison.

At the heart of Bison Hollow lies a narrow, steep-walled Blackhand Sandstone gorge that will take your breath away. Picturesque rock outcrops, cliffs, overhangs, ledges, caves, and waterfalls create a stunning backdrop for your adventure. The area also features older-growth hemlock and typical hardwood and oak-hickory forest communities, enhancing the preserve’s natural beauty.

Bison Hollow is more than just a scenic wonder; it is home to a diverse array of plant life, including the state-threatened rock skullcap, pink dot lichen, and potentially threatened species such as the long beech fern, tall larkspur, and green adder’s mouth. Keep an eye out for native Ohio orchids like the putty root, autumn coralroot, pink lady slipper, showy orchis, rattlesnake plantain, large twayblade, fen orchid, ragged fringed orchid, lady’s tresses, and cranefly orchid. In the forested ravines, you’ll be greeted by a spectacular display of spring wildflowers, including blue cohosh, Jacob’s ladder, sessile trillium, bloodroot, Virginia bluebells, Dutchman’s breeches, twinleaf, Virginia waterleaf, round-lobed hepatica, and yellow trout lily.

Originally managed by the Appalachia Ohio Alliance, Bison Hollow was dedicated as the 146th Ohio State Nature Preserve in January 2024, ensuring that this natural wonder will be preserved for generations to come.