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Ohio
23

Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Southeast Ohio Region
Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial
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Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial © Gene Shirk
Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial © Gene Shirk
Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial © Gene Shirk
Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial © Gene Shirk
Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial © Gene Shirk
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LEO PETROGLYPHS STATE MEMORIAL
LEO PETROGLYPHS STATE MEMORIAL
357 Township Highway 224
Ray, Ohio   45672
(lat:39.1507 lon:-82.6748) map location

Phone: 800-600-0144
Leo Petroglyph is an outstanding example of prehistoric Indian inscriptions.

On the edge of a beautiful ravine, the sandstone petroglyph contains 37 incised drawings of humans, animals, and human and animal footprints. It is now protected by a roof and viewing platform. The carvings, whose meaning is unknown, are attributed to Fort Ancient Indians who occupied this area between AD 1000 and 1650.

A trail leads through the gorge and along the unglaciated Mississippian sandstone cliffs that are 20 to 65 feet high. Wildflowers and birds are abundant during the warmer months.
History of the Area
The Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial is a historic site located in deforest, Ohio. It is home to a collection of unique ancient rock carvings, known as petroglyphs, that were created by prehistoric Native American cultures.

The petroglyphs at Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial were likely made by the Hopewell culture, which thrived in the region from approximately 200 BC to 500 AD. The carvings are believed to be several thousand years old and depict various forms, including animals, humans, geometric shapes, and abstract patterns.

The site was discovered in the 1800s by pioneers settling in what is now Warren County, Ohio. The carvings were found on a large sandstone boulder near the Little Miami River. The significance of the petroglyphs was recognized, and the site was designated as a state memorial in 1964.

The petroglyphs have been a subject of fascination and study for archaeologists and historians. They provide valuable insight into the cultural and artistic practices of the indigenous people who occupied the region in ancient times. However, due to their delicate nature, access to the petroglyphs is restricted to protect them from vandalism and deterioration.

Visitors to Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial can explore a small interpretive center, which offers information about the history, cultural context, and preservation efforts surrounding the petroglyphs. The site provides a unique opportunity to witness and appreciate the artistic achievements of Ohio's ancient inhabitants.




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Cottages and Cabins
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Hidden Cave Cabin - Rockbridge, OH
Cottages and Cabins
Hidden Cave Cabin is an authentic log cabin with 2 bedrooms in a private wooded setting. It is located on one of the most scenic drives in Hocking Hills and just 3.6 miles to Rock House and less than 10 miles to Conkle's Hollow and Old Man's Cave.
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Nearby Hotels
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Area Resources
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Tourism
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Ohio
23

Ohio State Parks

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