CHAPARRAL PRAIRIE
STATE NATURE PRESERVE - 67 ACRES

Main Feature:

A blackjack-post oak prairie opening with outstanding summer prairie wildflowers and butterflies.

This is an outstanding cedar barren prairie with post and blackjack oak. It supports one of the most extensive populations of rattlesnake-master in the state. Prairie dock and spiked blazing-star are also unusually abundant at this site.

Eleven state-listed species have been recorded at the preserve including spider milkweed, prairie false indigo, pink milkwort and Carolina buckthorn. Little bluestem is the dominant prairie grass.

Several rare lepidoptera, such as Edward's hairstreak butterfly, have been observed.

Location:

Located in Adams County about 3 miles northwest of West Union. Follow State Rte 247 north to Chaparral Rd (County Rd 22-C), then go west to Hawk Hill Rd (Township Rd 23). The entrance is on the left side of Hawk Hill Rd. the parking lot and trailhead are on the west side of the road. The Hawk Hill Loop Trail is 3/4 mile in length and features interpretive signs.