State Game Lands 285

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

State Game Lands 285, located in the state of Ohio, is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Nestled in the southeastern part of the state, this expansive area offers a wide range of recreational activities and a diverse array of flora and fauna.

One of the primary reasons to visit State Game Lands 285 is its breathtaking natural beauty. The area encompasses rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque meadows, providing ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. The tranquil atmosphere and abundant wildlife make it ideal for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.

There are several points of interest within State Game Lands 285 that are worth exploring. The Hocking River, which flows through the land, is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking. The area is also home to numerous hiking trails, including the Buckeye Trail and the Logan Trail. These trails offer stunning vistas and the chance to spot wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various bird species.

In addition to its natural beauty, State Game Lands 285 boasts some interesting facts. The land is managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, specifically the Division of Wildlife. Its primary purpose is to provide habitat for wildlife, particularly game species. The area is also used for hunting and trapping during designated seasons, making it a popular destination for hunters.

The best time of year to visit State Game Lands 285 depends on personal preferences and desired activities. Spring and summer are excellent for hiking and exploring, as the weather is usually mild. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during the spring migration season when many species pass through the area. Fall is a fantastic time to visit for those interested in hunting, as various game species are in season. Winter offers unique opportunities for observing animal tracks in the snow and enjoying a peaceful winter landscape.

To ensure accuracy, it is always advised to verify information across multiple independent sources, such as official state park websites or local tourism bureaus, as they provide the most up-to-date and reliable information about State Game Lands 285 in Ohio.

       

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