When we travel, we always like to find educational activities and outdoor places we can explore. Because of that, when we visited Warren County we knew we wanted to check out Fort Ancient. The location is the largest and best-preserved prehistoric hilltop enclosure in the United States and is rich in history and beauty.

Upon arriving at Fort Ancient, we went straight to the museum. There we walked through the exhibits that outlined the history of the area, learned about the Hopewell and Fort Ancient people and earthworks and embankments they created 1,000s of years ago.

Insider Tip: If you have kids with you ask from the scavenger hunt before walking through the museum. It’s free and is a fun activity for children as they look through the exhibits.

Children will enjoy the interactive, hands on activities located at the museum. They can touch various replicas of items that the American Indians would have used. We were especially impressed with the pump drill.

In addition to the indoor exhibits, Fort Ancient consists of 125 acres with almost 18,000 feet of man-made earthen embankments. It’s quite impressive to hike through the area and see all the embankments, mounds and earthwork that were created so long ago.

Insider Tip: Pick up a man from the museum as it outlines the locations of the hiking trails and points of interest. Make sure to visit the two overlook points, the views are stunning!

Tips for visiting Fort Ancient

• If you have kids with you ask from the scavenger hunt before walking through the museum. It’s free and is a fun activity for children as they look through the exhibits.
• Pick up a map from the museum as it outlines the locations of the hiking trails and points of interest. Make sure to visit the two overlook points, the views are stunning!
• Bring hiking shoes or boots as the trails may be muddy in locations.
• Pack bug spray as all the trails go through wooded areas.
• Check out their website for special events and activities offered throughout the year.

Fort Ancient Earthworks and Nature Preserve
6123 State Route 350 Oregonia, OH 45054
Website