The Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area is a picturesque outdoor space located in the state of Ohio. Spanning over 4,700 acres, this vast area offers a diverse range of natural habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, and meadows, making it a haven for various wildlife species. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, hunting, bird-watching, and hiking along the scenic trails that wind through the area. With its serene surroundings and abundant wildlife, the Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area provides a great opportunity to connect with nature and engage in outdoor recreational activities.

The Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area is located in Ross County, Ohio. It is a 993-acre state wildlife area that provides public access to the Scioto River and adjacent wetlands and forested areas. The history of the area is closely tied to the development of the Ohio and Erie Canal in the 19th century.

The Ohio and Erie Canal was an important transportation route that connected Lake Erie in Cleveland to the Ohio River in Portsmouth. It played a crucial role in the economic development of Ohio, allowing for the transportation of goods and people across the state. The canal was constructed between 1825 and 1832 and operated until the 1860s when railroads became the dominant mode of transportation.

The Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area is located along the historical route of the Ohio and Erie Canal. In the 1830s, a canal feeder system was constructed to supply water to the Summit Level of the canal, which flowed through Ross County. This feeder system diverted water from the Scioto River to replenish the canal in the event of low water levels.

Over time, the canal became obsolete and fell into disrepair. By the early 20th century, the canal was no longer in use, and the land surrounding it was repurposed for various purposes. In the 1970s, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources acquired land along the Scioto Canal feeder system to create the Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area.

The purpose of creating this wildlife area was to provide public access to the Scioto River and preserve the natural habitats in the region. The area offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including waterfowl, songbirds, deer, and various fish species found in the Scioto River.

The Scioto River Canal Lands Access State Wildlife Area continues to be managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and is open to the public for recreational activities. Its historical connection to the Ohio and Erie Canal adds to its significance as a natural and historical resource in Ohio.