These two neighboring nature reserves in southern Ohio deserve more attention and visitors. The Russ Nature Reserve and Kooger Wetlands Prairie Reserve have unique features that visitors may enjoy.

1. Russ Nature Reserve

This is a 90-acre reserve of prairie and woodlands managed by Greene County Parks & Trails. It’s unique feature includes a nature playscape in the middle of the forest. It offers a number of trails. So grab a map before entering the reserve for your guide.

Suggested season to visit.
I visited this reserve in the middle of summer and oh man, what a hot humid day! I suggest that you visit during fall or winter season.

Address.
2380 Kemp Road, Beavercreek, Ohio 45431
Google Map Link

See this 360-degree photo I took.

2. Kooger Wetlands/Prairie Reserve

This is a 47-acre reserve that is maintained by Beaver Creek Wetlands Association. It’s unique feature include a boardwalk that goes through a large swamp in the wetlands. It also has observation deck in the swamp near the entrance.

For hikers, there are two trails for now: a Trail Wetland Loop of about 0.6 mi and a Prairie Trail that is about 0.7 mi.

Suggested season to visit.
I was all alone in the park when I visited this reserve on a summer, around July. It was hot and humid. I have read other online comments that said it’d be better to visit the reserve when the temperature cools down. So maybe fall and winter seasons are good options for a visit.

Address.
2779 Beaver Valley Rd, Dayton, Ohio 45434
Google Map Link

See this 360-degree photo I took.

What are other attractions nearby?

1. Historical Houses, Cabins, and Structures in Ohio at Wartinger Park

See more travel search tags: Ohio Travel, Ohio, Western Ohio, Travel Western Ohio, Nature Preserve, Wright Brothers, Ohio Attractions, Things to See in Ohio, Unique Things To See in Ohio, Places to See in Ohio, Parks in Ohio