Feature: Conneaut Creek State Wild & Scenic River

In the far northeastern corner of Ohio in Ashtabula County lies Conneaut Creek State Wild and Scenic River. The Scenic River designation includes 21 miles of river and begins where Conneaut Creek crosses into Ohio from Pennsylvania. Sixteen miles are designated as Wild River.*

Conneaut Creek follows a shale stream bed that has eroded into glaciated terrain; it ranges from 15 to 40 feet wide. The riffles and sandbars create excellent habitat for nearly 80 species of fish such as the Northern Madtom, Mottled Sculpin and Emerald Shiner. It is also home to more than 30 species of reptiles and amphibians like Fowler’s Toad, Northern Dusky Salamander, and Eastern Newt.

The narrow valley is covered with an abundance of evergreen and deciduous trees. Within this watershed, over 30 unique plants and plant communities thrive. The Striped Maple and the Small-flowered Evening Primrose are found here along with many other species that are listed as threatened or endangered.

Even with its fluctuating water levels, paddling opportunities abound. The creek takes you through sunny openings and under picture-perfect covered bridges. The steelhead trout, smallmouth bass, and walleye are well known by anglers on this beautiful river.

Adjacent to Conneaut Creek is the Conneaut Wildlife Area and the Conneaut State Nature Preserve, an 86-acre tract of hemlock swamp that provides excellent wildlife viewing and birding opportunities. Also close by is Geneva State Park, about 30 miles to the west, with a resort lodge, camping, a large marina, and a beach.

For more information on what to do, where to stay and upcoming events in the area, visit the Ashtabula County Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.accvb.org or call 800-337-6746.

*To receive the Wild River status, a waterway needs to be mostly inaccessible, undeveloped, and free flowing. At least 75% of the river corridor must be forest that is 300 feet deep.

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