CHAPARRAL PRAIRIE
STATE NATURE PRESERVE - 67 ACRES
Main Feature:

A blackjack-post oak prairie opening with outstanding summer prairie wildflowers and butterflies.

This is an outstanding cedar barren prairie with post and blackjack oak. 

It supports one of the most extensive populations of rattlesnake-master in the state. Prairie dock and spiked 
blazing-star are also unusually abundant at this site. Eleven state-listed species have been recorded from the 
preserve including spider milkweed, prairie false indigo, pink milkwort and Carolina buckthorn. Little bluestem 
is the dominant prairie grass.

Several rare lepidoptera, such as Edward's hairstreak butterfly, have been reported from this preserve.

Location:

Located in Adams County approximately 3 miles northwest of West Union. Follow State Route 247 north to Chaparral 
Road (County Road 22-C), then go west to Hawk Hill Road (Township Road 23). The entrance is on the left side of 
Hawk Hill Road. Parking lot and trailhead are on the west side of the road. The Hawk Hill Loop Trail is 3/4 mile 
in length and includes trail-side interpretive signs.


Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve

Hawk Hill Road
West Union, Ohio 45693
Phone: (937) 544-9750   67 acres. A blackjack-post oak prairie opening known for its summer wildflowers. 
Rare Lepidoptera like Edward's hairstreak butterfly, have been reported from the preserve. Located 3 miles 
northwest of West Union. Follow State Route 247 north to Chaparral Road (County Road 22-C). Go west to Hawk 
Hill Road (Township Road 23). Entrance is on left side of Hawk Hill Road. Parking lot/trailhead are on the 
west side of road.