Wayne National Forest, located in the state of Ohio, offers a diverse range of natural attractions and recreational opportunities. Here is a summary of what makes this forest an excellent destination to visit, including key points of interest, interesting facts, and the best time of year to plan your visit, supported by multiple independent sources.

Reasons to Visit:
1. Outdoor Recreation: Wayne National Forest provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicle trails. It is known for its extensive trail system that caters to various skill levels.
2. Scenic Beauty: The forest boasts stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, dense forests, picturesque lakes, and creeks, offering breathtaking views for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
3. Wildlife Viewing: Visitors may encounter a wide range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bald eagles, various songbirds, and several reptile and amphibian species.
4. Rich History: Wayne National Forest encompasses lands that were once home to Native American tribes and saw significant historical events, such as the Underground Railroad. Exploring the forest provides an opportunity to learn about the region's cultural and historical heritage.

Points of Interest:
1. Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area: This area features a scenic lake surrounded by dense forest and offers activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.
2. Burr Oak State Park: Located near the forest, this park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, golfing, boating, and a stunning 600-acre lake.
3. Rockbridge State Nature Preserve: This preserve showcases an impressive natural bridge formation and offers hiking trails that wind through unique geological features.
4. Athens County Scenic Byway: A picturesque drive through the forest, offering stunning views of rolling hills, historic towns, covered bridges, and other attractions.

Interesting Facts:
1. Wayne National Forest covers over 240,000 acres, making it the only national forest in Ohio.
2. The forest's name honors General "Mad" Anthony Wayne, a Revolutionary War hero.
3. Once heavily logged, the forest has since been restored, providing habitat for a diverse range of plant and animal species.
4. Wayne National Forest features a unique karst topography, characterized by sinkholes, caves, and underground streams.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Wayne National Forest is generally during spring and fall. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, vibrant foliage, and pleasant temperatures, while fall offers stunning colors and comfortable weather for outdoor activities. Summer is popular for water-related activities but can be hot and humid. Winter can be cold and snowy, limiting some outdoor activities but providing opportunities for winter sports like cross-country skiing.

Sources:
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service - Wayne National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/wayne/
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources - Wayne National Forest webpage: https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/wayne-national-forest