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Pike State Forest
334 Lapperrel Road
Latham, Ohio 45646-9722
740-493-2441

Land acquisition for Pike State Forest began in 1924, with the objective of returning abused hill farms and fire-damaged timber lands to productive forests. Most of the reforestation work was completed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Division of Forestry. Pike State Forest now covers 11,960 acres in western Pike County and eastern Highland County. State ownership is broken up into 13 separate, irregular tracts, which make it difficult to manage for continuous recreational facilities, as well as the management and patrol of the forest resource.

The forest offers a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities. Located off of State Route 124 is the Pike State Forest APV area. The facility has 15 miles of trail open to motorcycles and off road all-terrain vehicles. The trails wind through the hollows and ridge tops, offering the visitor a challenging ride as well as some beautiful scenery and breathtaking views. Parking, latrines, and a novice area are all provided on the site.

For the equestrian there are 33 miles of bridle trail located on the forest.

Hiking is available on the Buckeye Trail which runs through the forest. Hiking is also permitted on the 33 miles of bridle trails.

For those who want to stay on the beaten path, there are numerous county and township roads that pass through the forest.

Pike State Forest is open to public hunting and fishing in season. Fishing is available at several ponds located in the forest. Anderson Lake off of Dry Bone Road is a popular spot that offers quiet seclusion among the hills and trees.

Map of Pike State Forest (132K)

Forest Rules

• Pike State Forest is open to visitors between the hours of 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily. Legal campers, hunters and anglers may be present during other hours.
• Operation of motor vehicles is restricted to roads provided for such travel. The speed limit on state forest roads is 30 mph unless otherwise posted. Vehicles may not be parked where traffic or access to division service roads or trails will be obstructed.
• Horses may be ridden only along forest roads or on designated bridle trails.
• Fires are not permitted except in grills or fire rings provided or in portable stoves. Fires must be attended at all times.
• Litter must be disposed of in receptacles provided.
• Camping is permitted only in areas provided and designated for such use.
• Public display or consumption of any alcoholic beverage is prohibited.
• Disturbance, defacement or destruction of any property, material, natural feature or vegetation is prohibited. Berries, nuts and mushrooms may be gathered and removed except from tree seed orchards or posted areas.

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