Prairie Plants in Bloom: Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve, Adams County

Theme: Prairie Plants in Bloom

Location: Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve, Adams County

Date: Sunday, August 6, 2023

Meet: At 9:00 A.M. at the Preserve (directions below), or at 7:30 A.M. at the McDonald’s at Eastgate to carpool.

Trip Leaders: Ann Oliver (annieobirder@yahoo.com, telephone 513-307-0929) and Ned Keller (nedkeller49@gmail.com)

Unlike our local planted prairies, the 130-acre Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve is an outstanding example of a globally rare, post oak opening habitat. Post and blackjack oaks are scattered throughout the preserve. This rare habitat supports dozens of rare species including the most extensive population of rattlesnake-master in the state. Prairie plants, including prairie dock and spiked blazing-star (a few of which are the white color variety), are also unusually abundant at this site. Other rare plants include spider milkweed, prairie false indigo, pink milkwort and bluehearts. Little bluestem is the dominant prairie grass. With the abundance of summer wildflowers, Chaparral Prairie is loaded with butterflies, moths and other interesting insects. Several rare species, such as Edward’s hairstreak, Olive hairstreak and Unexpected Cycnia moth, have been observed in the preserve.

The grassy trails total about two miles, all of which are level or on gentle slopes. But this is August, on a prairie, so be prepared for hot weather. Bring plenty of water, along with sun screen and tick repellant for the numerous ticks that call Adams County home. Also, be aware that there are no restrooms at Chaparral.

We expect to conclude the trip before noon. We may move on to another Adams County prairie after we have finished at Chaparral.

Directions: From the I-275 loop, take Ohio 32 eastbound to Winchester. WATCH YOUR SPEED on Ohio 32, particularly at Mt. Orab. At Winchester, turn right onto Ohio 136 South. After 7.5 miles, turn left onto Chapparal Road (yes, it’s spelled differently from the preserve). After 2.6 miles, turn left onto Hawk Hill Road. The preserve will be on your left. Allow about an hour from I-275. If you are coming from somewhere other than Cincinnati, and your GPS takes you on a different route, the stretch of Hawk Hill Road between the preserve and Cross Road is gravel, and is often poorly maintained. It’s rough, but passable in an ordinary car if you’re slow and careful.

Carpool: Meet Ann to carpool at the McDonald’s at Eastgate, at 812 Eastgate North Drive, at 7:30 A.M. She will make a stop in Winchester for your last official restroom.