The visitor center is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, with extended hours to 5 PM in June and July. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
There is no entrance fee to visit Hopewell Culture National Historical Park; admission is free every day of the year.
From Chillicothe, take US-35 to OH-104, then follow signs to Mound City Group. Immerse yourself in ancient earthworks and burial mounds, a testament to the Hopewell culture’s enduring legacy.
Parking lots are available at each site. Head-in parking is available, with oversized vehicles parking on the driveway shoulder. No overnight parking. No fees. Motorcycles welcome. Wheelchair-accessible spots near restrooms.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, situated in Ross County, Ohio, is a verdant and historically rich destination that beckons travelers to immerse themselves in the ancient landscapes of the Hopewell culture. This park, spanning 1,828 acres, is composed of six distinct sites, including the Mound City Group, Hopewell Mound Group, and Seip Earthworks, each a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual practices of the indigenous Hopewell people who flourished here from approximately 200 BC to 500 AD.
The landscape is dotted with ceremonial earthworks and burial mounds, set against the serene backdrop of the Scioto River watershed. As seasons change, the park transforms: spring brings vibrant blooms of wildflowers, summer warms the earthworks under sunlit skies, autumn paints the woods with hues of gold and crimson, and winter blankets the mounds in a tranquil silence.
Visitors can explore the park’s archaeological treasures via various trails, including those at the Mound City Group and Hopewell Mound Group. While the park does not feature a lake, its proximity to the Scioto River offers opportunities for scenic walks and reflections on the water. Nearby, the charming town of Chillicothe awaits with its artisan shops and local eateries.
Special events include ranger-led tours that delve into the history and significance of the earthworks, and seasonal festivals that celebrate the Hopewell culture. For a deeper connection, engage with local outfitters and businesses such as the Friends of Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, which offer insights and guided experiences that enrich the visitor’s understanding of this ancient world.
In 2023, the park was designated part of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks World Heritage Site, a recognition of its global importance. As you wander through these historic earthworks, you are not just walking through a park; you are tracing the footsteps of a civilization that once thrived here, leaving behind a legacy of earth, spirit, and time.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.8
- Annual visitors
- 62 000
- Established year
- 1923
Top 3 Facts about Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
The earthworks feature conical and loaf-shaped mounds up to 30 feet high and earthen walls as high as 12 feet, outlining geometric figures more than 1000 feet across, used for ceremonial and ritual purposes.
In this historic landscape, a diverse tapestry of wildlife thrives. Birds such as migratory species and resident songbirds fill the air with melodies, while mammals like white-tailed deer and raccoons roam the grounds. Fish and amphibians inhabit the aquatic habitats, and reptiles, including the timber rattlesnake, add to the rich biodiversity. The park’s varied habitats support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a unique haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an immersive experience with the natural world.
Along the boundary of the Central Lowland and Appalachian Plateaus, this historic site rests on glacial outwash terraces adjacent to rivers and streams, with earthworks built upon Pleistocene ice age deposits that sculpted the landscape over 2 million years ago. The terrain is underpinned by ancient Paleozoic sedimentary rocks, including the 420-million-year-old Tymochtee Dolomite.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in spring to explore the earthworks, starting at the visitor center. Drive between sites, anticipate unpaved trails, and pack meals. Catch the Earthworks Day event for guided tours and insights. Rest often and respect the mounds.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. For camping, bring a tent, sleeping bags, headlamps, and a portable stove. Don’t forget extra batteries, a multi-tool, and a first-aid kit. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Never feed animals and dispose of trash properly to preserve natural behaviors and habitats. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact. Respect the environment as you would your own.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, keep a safe distance from wildlife and water, and check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 740-774-1126. Be cautious near ledges and follow all park rules.
Seasons
Visit in spring, April to May, with mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming wildflowers. Enjoy World Heritage Week events, including ranger-led tours and junior ranger activities, amidst ancient earthworks and vibrant spring scenery. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
Explore ancient earthworks in summer’s warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and humid weather. Join the Summer Solstice Celebration in June for a sunset mound tour, or participate in Saturday hikes and ranger-led tours from May to August. Ideal for history and nature enthusiasts.
Visit in fall, when temperatures range from 40°F to 70°F, and enjoy crisp autumn weather. Attend the Hopewell Discovery Day in October for mound tours, flintknapping, and hands-on crafts, immersing yourself in ancient rituals and scenic landscapes.
Visit in winter (Dec-Feb) for serene landscapes under snow, with temperatures often in the 20s-30s°F. Crisp air and fewer crowds make for a tranquil, immersive experience among ancient earthworks. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, historical retreat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Hopewell Culture National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Chillicothe, Ohio, located in the northern area of the city in Ross County. The park is situated near the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and the Scioto River valley.
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The Mound City Nature Trail is a great option for kids, offering a 1-mile hike through historic earthworks built nearly 2,000 years ago by the Hopewell culture. This trail is kid-friendly, educational, and allows families to explore the ceremonial mounds and scenic views. The trail is suitable for all seasons and does not require reservations or activity fees.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed off-leash or inside buildings. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6 feet are not permitted.
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Parking is free. However, there are no parking spaces for RVs, campers, or motorhomes; these must be parked on the shoulder of the driveway or around the flag pole.
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The park includes four public sites: Mound City Group, Hopewell Mound Group, Hopeton Earthworks, and Seip Earthworks. These sites feature dozens of monumental earthworks and burial mounds built by the Hopewell culture between 200 BC and 500 AD. The park also has a museum with significant Hopewell artifacts and an interactive computer exhibit, as well as a nature trail and ranger-guided tours.