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Hopewell Culture National Historical Park

Mounds of various shapes and enclosures often built in geometric patterns dot the landscape of the Ohio River Valley. These earthen structures were doubtless the work of many human hands. Evidence suggests that Hopewell earthworks were used for a variety of ceremonial and social activities between 200 BC to AD 500. Come learn about these sacred spaces and reflect upon the lives of their builders.

The Basics

Hours:

Mound City Group Visitor Center

The park’s Visitor Center is open seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Between Memorial Day to Labor Day the Visitor Center is open 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Visitor Center is closed January 1, Thanksgiving Day, and December 25.

Park Grounds

Park grounds at the Mound City Group, Hopewell Mound Group, and Seip Earthworks units are open during daylight hours. Currently, Hopewell Mound Group and Seip Earthworks units have limited visitor facilities consisting of interpretive signs and restrooms.

Closures

The Hopeton Earthworks and High Bank Works units are not accessible to the public except for occasional ranger-led programs. These sites are primarily devoted to preservation and research. For more information about these closures, please contact the park.

Address:

16062 State Route 104
Chillicothe, OH 45601

Phone:

740-774-1126

Fax:

740-774-1140

Map

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, Ohio Map

Directions

The park's Mound City Group Visitor Center in Chillicothe, Ohio is located two miles north of the intersection of US Route 35 and State Route 104.

Climate

Summers are generally hot and humid with occasional thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures in the summer average between 80 to 90° F. Winters are cold with occasional, moderate accumulations of snow generally less than six inches. Daytime temperatures in the winter average between 30 to 40° F. Although May is the rainiest month of the year, visitors should be prepared for rain throughout the year.

Link to our Columbus Weather coverage for more information.

Link to our Portsmouth Weather coverage for more information.

Fees

No entrance fees.

Things To Do

The park's Visitor Center features a 17-minute film and a museum containing artifacts excavated from Mound City Group. Guided tours and patio talks are available in the summer and by special arrangement. Contact the Visitor Center for more information by phone at 740-774-1126

A self-guided interpretive trail of the mounds is located at Mound City Group. Another trail circles the outer perimeter of these earthworks. A trail to the Central Mound at Seip Earthworks is maintained by the Ohio Historical Society. More trails are under construction at Hopewell Mound Group and Seip Earthworks.

One mile of the Tri-County Triangle Trail runs through the park's Hopewell Mound Group unit. This bike trail connects the towns of Chillicothe and Frankfort via a 14 mile paved section. Parking and restrooms are located adjacent to the trail at the park's facilities on Sulphur Lick Road.

Nearby Attractions

Adena Mansion and Gardens

Visit the home of Thomas Worthington, the sixth governor of Ohio and a United States Senator. The house, grounds, museum, and educational center sit on 300 acres managed by the Ohio Historical Society.

Pump House Center for the Arts

An historic building located in downtown Yoctangee Park hosts art shows and exhibits throughout the year. Tours available.

Ross County Heritage Center

Visit four museums operated by the Ross County Historical Society. Exhibits at the Ross County Museum focus on local prehistory and history. Other museums are the McKell Library, Knoles Log House, and Franklin House Women’s Museum.

Tecumseh! The Outdoor Drama

This outdoor drama is based on the life of legendary Shawnee Indian leader, Tecumseh. The drama is performed during the summer at the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre.

State Parks

Great Seal, Paint Creek, Scioto Trail, and Tar Hollow state parks are located nearby. A variety of hiking, bridle, and bike trails are available, as well as camping, fishing, and hunting.

Link to our Columbus Attractions coverage for more information.

Link to our Portsmouth Attractions coverage for more information.

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