Overview
Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve is a magnificent natural area in southeast Ohio's Jackson County. It was acquired by the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves through the foresight and generosity of two long-time business partners, Edwin A. Jones and James J. McKitterick. The focal point of this preserve is a clear water lake surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs. The lake was named after Edwin Jones' wife, Katharine.
The rich Appalachian forest is cut by three deep ravines in which are found magnolias, eastern hemlock, sweet gum, birch and beech. The dry ridge tops support an association of mountain laurel, Virginia pine and oak. The preserve has many native orchids as well as diverse spring flora. Lake Katharine harbors the state's largest and finest populations of both bigleaf and umbrella magnolia trees, both state-listed species.
- Open 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset
- Stay on designated trails
- Pets are not permitted
- No public restrooms
- Ticks are common in the preserve.
Trails
Over 7 miles of hiking trails:
- Calico Bush Trail - 0.5 miles
- Lakeview Trail (NEW in 2020) - 1.1 miles
- Pine Ridge Trail - 2 miles
- Salt Creek Short Loop - 0.6 miles
- Salt Creek Spur - 0.1 miles
- Salt Creek Long Loop - 1.1 miles
