Located at 5995 Lafayette Plain City Rd, London, OH, the Little Darby State Scenic River Preserve is part of the Darby Creek Watershed which covers an area of 556.6 square miles.
Big and Little Darby Creeks are noted nationally for their tremendous diversity and abundance of both aquatic and terrestrial plants and animals. They are home to 86 species of fish, five of which are endangered in Ohio including the federally endangered Scioto Madtom, which is endemic to the area. Forty-one species of freshwater mollusk live in these waters, eight of which are on the Ohio endangered list.
The creeks’ banks are flanked with native vegetation varying considerably in width; from only a narrow line of trees to deep and extensive forests. Floodplain trees such as buckeye, sycamore, silver maple and box elder tolerate periods of inundation. Species more adapted to drier soils such as oak and sugar maple line the valley walls.
Remnant prairie species — purple coneflower, the threatened prairie false indigo and Indian paintbrush — inhabit the slopes and bluffs along the streams. Numerous species of birds and mammals depend upon this linear strip of undisturbed habitat for their existence.
History
The Big & Little Darby Creek State and National Scenic Rivers were designated on June 22, 1984, and October 3, 1994. Their combined waterways total 82 miles in length.
Things to See & Do
Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park enables many outdoor activities, including biking, canoeing, fishing, cross country skiing, sledding, picnicking, hiking, and more. Unique features include restored prairie areas that house a group of 10 American bison, restored wetlands, a large nature center with exhibits about the exceptional biodiversity of Big Darby Creek, and a Fort Ancient mound.
Everyone Welcome
The Ohio to Erie Trail is a collection of multi-use trails that provide exercise and adventure to anyone who’s willing to leave the automobile behind. Bicyclists, equestrians*, skaters, hikers, families with strollers, bird watchers, walkers and nature lovers are a common sight. In the winter, the trail becomes a snowshoe and cross-country ski path. And, for those with mobility impairments, construction designs call for full compliance with ADA guidelines so that everyone has the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Ohio as the trail weaves its way across the state.
*Currently the Madison County Park District does not allow horses on the Madison County trails.
