North Kingsville Sand Barrens, Ashtabula County
The North Kingsville Sand Barrens protects the only high-quality fossil dune ridge that has been preserved in Northeast Ohio. Nearly a mile long, about 300 feet wide, and 30 feet deep, the sand ridge is a remnant of an older lake shoreline that predates Lake Erie. The 182-acre preserve supports a number of endangered plants, several rare invertebrates, and a fine population of native lupine. It is the only known Ohio nesting site for the white-throated sparrow.
The North Kingsville Sand Barrens is one of three Museum natural areas open to the public. It features a trail that winds through open, sandy barrens, drier uplands, and lush, seep-fed wetlands and woods.
The North Kingsville Sand Barrens preserve is a stop on the Lake Erie Birding Trail.
Take I-90 to the Route 193 exit. Follow Route 193 north to U.S. Route 20 east. Take U.S. Route 20 east to Poore Road. Travel north on Poore Road to the railroad tracks. The preserve is on the west side of Poore Road just north of the tracks. There is a sign located at the entrance.
