Bluebell Preserve
(Athens Conservancy)
Bluebell Preserve was donated to the Athens Conservancy by AEP (American Electric Power). Its 64.5 acres is in an eastern and a western section, all along the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway. The eastern section, entirely in Dover Township, extends from the end of Hamley Run Road to Hamley Run itself. The western section, overlapping Dover and York Townships, borders the Wayne National Forest. Both sections border AEP's Poston Lands on the south.

Both sections feature spectacular spring wildflower displays. Because of the steep slopes, fragile ecosystem, and proximity to the bikeway, hunting is not allowed on this preserve. Hunting is allowed, with a permit, on the adjacent AEP Poston Lands. There is an old coal mine (collapsed) on the eastern tract, along with an old railroad grade that once served the mine, and old road grades. The western section features two Indian mounds on the ridge top, but these were extensively plundered in the past.

To get to the Bluebell Preserve from Athens, take OH-682 6.5 miles west from US-33 at Athens to River Road. Turn left on River Road and park at the Bikeway parking area. Go west on the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway to the preserve. The first section is from about 1.2 miles to 1.5 miles west from the parking; the second section is from about 2.1 miles to 2.5 miles. We do NOT recommend parking along Hamley Run Road, the gravel road that parallels the bikeway, because of posssible theft problems.