Highlands Nature Sanctuary - Bainbridge, OH
Highlands Nature Sanctuary: A Dog-Friendly Outdoor Adventure in Bainbridge, Ohio
Located in the scenic heart of Bainbridge, Ohio, the Highlands Nature Sanctuary is a premier destination for nature lovers and those seeking pet-friendly trails. This nature preserve features a variety of well-maintained hiking paths, unique cave experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and pet owners alike. The Sanctuary is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famed McKimmie’s Cave and the immersive Valley of the Ancients—making it one of the top spots for dog-friendly hiking in Southern Ohio.
Visitors will find that the park is accessible, with wheelchair-friendly entrances and parking, as well as amenities such as public restrooms and helpful staff at the nature center. The hiking trails range from easy walks to more adventurous, moderate-to-hard loops, ensuring a suitable route for various skill levels. Please note that the park’s parking lots close at 4:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. Whether you’re exploring cave trails with your furry friend or looking for a peaceful hike through ancient forests, Highlands Nature Sanctuary offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience for people and their pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, the entrance and parking lot are both wheelchair accessible.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the sanctuary features several scenic hiking trails.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park is considered good for kids and offers kid-friendly hikes.
- Are there staff or rangers present at the park? Yes, there are helpful staff at the nature center and museum.
- Where is the best place to park? There are designated parking lots near the nature center; note they close at 4:30 PM.
Reviews
So many great trails in this place! Loved McKimmie’s Cave, Valley of the Ancients, Three Sisters and many more. Nice little museum, very friendly and helpful people.
The cave is a tight fit and you have to check out a key from the museum to access the trail to it. I had to take my pack off to squeeze in and it goes pretty far back. Totally worth it.
Great place for a few different hikes. There is a cave you can go into. Live the nature center there. Parking lots are locked up at 430 PM. Very helpful staff at the nature center. Worth the trip.
Love this place lot of hiking. Not good for people that haven’t hiked in sometime. Not good for little kids. There are drop-off.
This is a review of the Barrier Ridge Trail that is located across the street from the Appalachian Forest Museum. The trailhead is located in the lower parking area. There is a sign indicating this and is easy to see. The trail is a 3 mile loop and is moderate to hard in difficulty. It is steep at times, and there is a lot of uphill hiking.The trails are well maintained, and parts of it are narrow and on the side of hills. There are switchbacks and steps along the trail that help with the steeper inclines. The gates to the parking area are closed at 4:30 pm. Allow yourself enough time for the hike so you’re not locked in.
If you haven’t been, you need to go! Used to be 7 caves! It’s great for kids and anyone wanting to get out and see the history of Southern Ohio. Paths are perfect, and the scenery is 1 of a kind. The caves are really cool to go through. The people inside are awesome and answer any questions you may have! You can make a day trip or weekend trip out of this. Paint Creek campgrounds aren’t far away.