Hopewell Culture National Historic Park

Hopewell Culture National Historic Park spans a total area of 1,170 acres of land that can be found in Ross County which is in south-central Ohio. The park was initially proclaimed and named Mound City Group National Monument on March 2, 1923, but the name was later changed to Hopewell Culture National Historic Park on May 27, 1992.

To access the main visitor center at the park which is located at Mound City Group, you can use OH 104 and drive about two miles north of US 35 and then drive another three miles north of Chillicothe. Once you get to the park, some of the unique attractions that you shall find include the following. 

First, you will see the finely crafted artifacts of the Hopewell Culture, which is known to have existed between 200 BC and 500 AD. The crafted objects also manifest that the highly skilled artisans used an extensive trade network that extended east of the Rocky Mountains. 

Additionally, the Hopewell Culture National Historic Park has nationally significant archeological resources including massive earthwork and mound complexes that provide an insight into the social, political, ceremonial, and economic life of the Hopewell People.

Besides these attractions, visitors to the park can also get to participate in a few other recreational activities including hiking, guided tour, and interpretive programs. Some of the amenities in the park to facilitate these activities include a picnic area, visitor center, museum/exhibit, restrooms, and self-guided trails.

Dogs are allowed into Hopewell Culture National Historic Park although like other parks, tail-waggers have to be restricted from venturing into specific areas of the park. For example, all park buildings like the visitor center are out-of-bounds to all dogs and pets. Additionally, for areas of the park that dogs are allowed to venture into, the dog must be kept on a leash.