Herrick Fen Nature Preserve

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Herrick Fen Nature Preserve is a 74-acre nature preserve located in the state of Ohio.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The preserve is known for its unique ecosystem, which includes a fen, a type of wetland that is fed by groundwater. The fen at Herrick Fen is one of the largest and most well-preserved in the state.

One of the main reasons to visit Herrick Fen Nature Preserve is to experience the beauty and diversity of the natural landscape. Visitors can explore the preserve's trails, which wind through wetland areas, forests, and meadows. Along the way, they can see a variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species such as the pitcher plant, bog violet, and eastern massasauga rattlesnake.

One of the main points of interest at Herrick Fen is the boardwalk that crosses the fen. This boardwalk provides visitors with a unique perspective on the wetland ecosystem and allows them to see the fen up close without damaging the fragile plants and soil.

Another interesting feature of Herrick Fen is the old-growth forest that borders the fen. This forest is home to some of the oldest trees in the state, including several species of oak and hickory.

The best time of year to visit Herrick Fen Nature Preserve is in the spring and summer, when the fen is at its most vibrant. During these months, visitors can see wildflowers in bloom, and a variety of bird species nesting and feeding in the wetland areas.

Overall, Herrick Fen Nature Preserve is a unique and beautiful destination for nature lovers and anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty of Ohio. With its diverse ecosystem, rare plant and animal species, and stunning landscapes, it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the state.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks