State Game Lands 173
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
State Game Lands 173, located in the state of Ohio, offers a diverse range of outdoor recreational opportunities and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
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Summary
Spanning over 2,800 acres, this area attracts visitors with its rich wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and various recreational activities.
One of the main reasons to visit State Game Lands 173 is the ample opportunities for hunting and fishing. The game lands offer excellent hunting grounds for deer, turkeys, squirrels, and rabbits. Anglers can enjoy fishing in the numerous ponds and streams that traverse the area, with species like bass, sunfish, and catfish.
Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning natural beauty of State Game Lands 173. The diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, marshes, and woods, provide habitats for a variety of wildlife species. Birdwatchers can spot a wide array of migratory and resident bird species, such as woodpeckers, hawks, and waterfowl.
There are several points of interest within State Game Lands 173 worth exploring. The Wetland Observation Deck offers a perfect vantage point to observe waterfowl and other wetland inhabitants. Additionally, the various trails and walking paths throughout the game lands offer opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and wildlife watching. The scenic views, serene environment, and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal location for photography and outdoor picnics.
Interesting facts about State Game Lands 173 include the presence of rare and endangered species, such as the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake and the Blanding's turtle. The game lands also actively promote conservation efforts and wildlife management programs to ensure the preservation of the area's natural resources.
The best time of year to visit State Game Lands 173 largely depends on personal preferences and the desired activities. Spring and fall are popular for hunting, as deer and turkey seasons open during these seasons. However, for nature enthusiasts, any time of the year can offer unique experiences, as each season brings different wildlife sightings and natural displays.
It is essential to verify the accuracy of this information by consulting multiple independent sources, such as official Ohio state park websites, local wildlife management authorities, and reputable travel guides.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
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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