During World War I, the area that is now Scioto Trail State Forest was used as an artillery range for Camp Sherman. Seventy-five millimeter guns and six-inch howitzers were set up at the mouth of Stoney Creek on the Scioto River and fired at targets in the general area of Stewart and Caldwell Lakes. The purchase of land for the state forest began in 1922, and most of the present forest area was purchased by 1937. The first 9,088 acres cost an average of $7.70 per acre. The forest was named after the Native American trail that ran from what is now Chillicothe to Portsmouth. They called it the Scioto Trail. Routh 23 follows the path of the trail. The major development of the area took place in the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corps built most of the roads, lakes and early recreational facilities. The forest now covers 9,390 acres. Scioto Trail State Forest maintains 26 miles of bridle trails for day use by horseback riders and hikers. Mountain bikes are also permitted on these trails. A Mountain Bike Family Campout is held each summer to promote this activity. Six miles of paved roads and 18 miles of gravel roads provide good access to all areas of the forest. Scenic vistas and overlooks on several of the roads attract many visitors year-round, but especially during the fall when the leaves are turning color. Populations of deer, wild turkey, squirrel and grouse encourage many hunters to pursue their favorite sport at Scioto Trail. Mushroom hunting in the spring is attracting more and more visitors to the forest each year. A fire tower and picnic area are located next to the forest office, and are the sites of many reunions and family outings. The 250 acre Scioto Trail State Park consists of two areas in the middle of the state forest. Two 15 acre lakes, a campground, two primitive camping area, picnic areas, trails and a sled hill are all located within the park.

Scioto Trail State Forest, located in Ross and Pike counties in Ohio, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The forest is situated in the Appalachian foothills and covers approximately 9,500 acres.

Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and the Adena people. The Adena culture, which thrived from 1000 BC to 200 BC, left behind significant archaeological sites in the area.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive and establish communities in the region. The forest lands were primarily used for agriculture, with settlers clearing the land for farming and timber.

However, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, extensive logging took place in the area due to the high demand for timber. Logging companies clear-cut large sections of the forest, which led to massive erosion, loss of wildlife habitat, and the degradation of water quality.

To combat these issues and protect the remaining forested areas, the Ohio Division of Forestry was established in 1919, and the state started acquiring land for reforestation. In 1922, the state purchased the first parcel of land that would eventually become Scioto Trail State Forest.

Through reforestation efforts, the state aimed to restore the land's ecological balance and provide sustainable timber resources. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in these efforts during the Great Depression. CCC workers planted trees, built roads, recreation facilities, and trails, and fought forest fires.

In subsequent years, additional purchases and land exchanges expanded the state forest's size. Today, Scioto Trail State Forest comprises mature upland hardwood forests, including oak and hickory, as well as diverse plant and animal species.

The forest also offers recreational opportunities to visitors, including hiking, hunting, fishing, and camping. Several trails, such as the 15-mile Zaleski Backpack Trail and various shorter loop trails, wind through the forest, providing scenic views and opportunities for outdoor exploration.

Overall, the history of Scioto Trail State Forest reflects the transformation of the region from Native American lands to agricultural use and the subsequent reforestation efforts to restore the forest's health and ecological integrity. It is now valued as a natural resource and a place for outdoor recreation in Ohio.