Wayne National Forest covers three separate sections of southwest Ohio, and is spread throughout twelve counties. The only national forest in the state, it surrounds Athens, Marietta and is west of Gallipolis. The forest sprawls over 250,000 acres of Appalachian hills and spans over 800,000 acres total. It's within a days drive from Pittsburgh, Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Louisville and Lexington, and the forest itself offers unparallel recreational opportunities.

The forest boasts covered bridges, camping sites, the Buckeye Trail for biking and walking, and fishing and boating for water lovers. There are nature walks, bird walks, wildlife observations areas and events for the kids in the summer months available through the forest services.