Sometimes, the most peaceful places are the most memorable places. Here in Ohio, our state parks and nature preserves can provide plenty of solace when you need it. One of the most peaceful places in the state, though, is undeniably the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge in Oak Harbor. An excellent place to birdwatch and bask in nature, it belongs on every Ohio nature lover’s bucket list.

Home to beautiful wetlands, rare wildlife and plenty of nature trails, the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge is an absolute gem.

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook Note: To stay up to date on which areas are open to the public, visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s website.

It’s arguably the best place to spot waterfowl in Ohio. If you know someone who loves to birdwatch, this is the place to go.

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook Additionally, bald eagles have also been spotted frequently here this year.

When the Visitor’s Center is open, it’s a great place to start. From there, you can pick your trails and plot your adventure.

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook Note: To stay up to date on hours of operation and other information regarding COVID-19 precautions, follow Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge on Facebook.

Although hiking the trails is a great way to explore the area up close, Wildlife Drive Dates are also available.

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook Upcoming Wildlife Drive Dates are subject to change but are currently scheduled for June 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, and 28, July 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26, August 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30.

The Cedar Point NWR Fishing Access isn’t only great for fishing; it’s also a beautiful place to kayak. Non-motorized craft is now permitted in the fishing pond.

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook Make your visit extra special and get out on the water!

We’re truly lucky to have such a beautiful habitat right here in our own backyard. <3

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook

Have you ever explored Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook

Note: To stay up to date on which areas are open to the public, visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s website.

Additionally, bald eagles have also been spotted frequently here this year.

Note: To stay up to date on hours of operation and other information regarding COVID-19 precautions, follow Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge on Facebook.

Upcoming Wildlife Drive Dates are subject to change but are currently scheduled for June 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, and 28, July 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26, August 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30.

Make your visit extra special and get out on the water!

For more peaceful destinations in Ohio, check out our previous article: Here Are The 10 Most Peaceful Places To Go In Ohio When You Need A Break From It All.

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Address: 14000 OH-2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449, USA