Oak Openings Loop

The defining feature of the Oak Openings is sand. This unique region is situated on the former shores of preglacial Lake Warren, modern day Lake Erie’s much larger predecessor. As Lake Warren receded, it left its dunes and beach ridges in its wake, and these sands are now carpeted with oak savannas, dry prairie, and wet sedge meadows in low-lying areas.

Red-headed Woodpecker Ashtabula Loop Cleveland Area Loop Huron & Lorain Loop Sandusky Bay Loop Lake Erie Islands Loop Western Lake Erie Marshes Loop Oak Openings Loop Red-headed Woodpecker




There are more state-listed rare plants and animals in the Oak Openings than any other comparably sized region in Ohio. Many regional specialty birds, such as Summer Tanager, Lark Sparrow, and Blue Grosbeak can be found. The total species list for the loop is 300, and three of those – Atlantic Puffin, Black-billed Magpie, and Mountain Bluebird – have been found only in this region.