Newark Earthworks

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Newark Earthworks is a complex of ancient Native American earthworks located in Newark, Ohio.


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Summary

The earthworks were built by the Hopewell culture between 100 BC and AD 500 and are considered one of the most impressive prehistoric sites in North America.

Some good reasons to visit Newark Earthworks include its historical and cultural significance, as well as its impressive engineering and architectural feats. The site is also a great opportunity to learn about the Hopewell culture and their beliefs and practices.

Specific points of interest to see at Newark Earthworks include the Great Circle, Octagon Earthworks, and Wright Earthworks. The Great Circle is a massive circular enclosure that is nearly 1,200 feet in diameter, while the Octagon Earthworks is an impressive eight-sided structure that is connected to the Great Circle. The Wright Earthworks is a smaller, but still impressive, structure that served as a burial mound.

Interesting facts about Newark Earthworks include that it is the largest set of geometric earthworks in the world, covering over 4 square miles. The structures were likely used for astronomical observations, as well as social and ceremonial purposes.

The best time of year to visit Newark Earthworks is during the summer or fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is beautiful. Additionally, visitors should be aware that the site is open to the public year-round, but some areas may be closed off during the winter months.

       

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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.
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