Highlands Nature Sanctuary, located at 7660 Cave Rd in Bainbridge, Ohio, USA, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and natural exploration. While not a traditional campground or RV park, its focus on outdoor recreation and nature exploration makes it relevant to those seeking activities often associated with such destinations.
Highlands Nature Sanctuary offers the following features and services:
However, it is important to be aware of the following potential challenges:
Guests have reported positive experiences at Highlands Nature Sanctuary, highlighting the diverse hiking trails and unique cave exploration opportunities. The nature center and museum provide valuable information and assistance. The scenic locations like Valley of the Ancients and Three Sisters add to the overall appeal. The opportunity to explore McKimmie's Cave is a significant attraction, though visitors should be prepared for a tight fit and the need to check out a key. The parking lot closure at 4:30 PM is a consideration for those planning late visits. The sanctuary is ideal for nature enthusiasts and hikers seeking diverse trails and cave adventures near Bainbridge, OH. Visitors should be prepared for the parking lot closure and the tight fit in McKimmie's Cave.
Highlands Nature Sanctuary is ideal for nature enthusiasts and hikers seeking diverse trails and cave exploration near Bainbridge, OH. Visitors should be aware of the parking lot closure and cave access requirements.
For inquiries, you can contact Highlands Nature Sanctuary at:
Phone: (937) 365-1935
Mobile Phone: +1 937-365-1935
Address: 7660 Cave Rd, Bainbridge, OH 45612, USA
Onsite services
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Hiking
Public restroom
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Great place for a few different hikes. There is a cave you can go into. Live the nature center there. Parking lots are locked up at 430 PM. Very helpful staff at the nature center. Worth the trip.
So many great trails in this place! Loved McKimmie's Cave, Valley of the Ancients, Three Sisters and many more. Nice little museum, very friendly and helpful people. The cave is a tight fit and you have to check out a key from the museum to access the trail to it. I had to take my pack off to squeeze in and it goes pretty far back. Totally worth it.
I'm so grateful to the people who look after this place. For anyone who enjoys nature, it's worth a visit. Or many visits if you can. It's free to enter, but donations are much appreciated.
A hidden gem - two short and very lovely trails by the office/small museum. Lots of parking across the street and up a small rise. Helpful people too. They also sell an excellent apple butter and also something I'd never had before - sorghum molasses. I think they made it there. We visited mid-October. Some color change. Mixed hardwood, cedar, and interesting sheer rock cliffs, and caves. Both trails by the nature center descend to the beautiful creek below.
This is an absolutely beautiful preserve. The spring ephemeral show is an unforgettable experience. Take your time. These trails want you to linger slowly and pause frequently to take it all in. Louisiana Waterthrush antics, Northern Parulas zipping around, Eastern Phoebes repeating their name, several mouthy Carolina Wrens singing loudly in the sunshine, lots of moths, butterflies, caterpillars, beetles, native bees and other pollinators. The caves, the limestone and dolomite features, the waterfall views from the trail, the rich biodiversity and so much more will fill your heart with joy and inspiration as you walk the trails. Take it all in. Look at educational programming they provide and events. If you are reading this and have never been there, one word: GO!