Erie Sand Barrens is situated in the sandy beach ridges of glacial Lake Warren, a predecessor to modern Lake Erie. Because of past intensive agricultural activities, the flora of this preserve is not very diverse. Nevertheless, many state-listed species still remain.
The sandy soil of the preserve is well-drained and plants that survive here are adapted to its dry conditions. On the highest, driest ridges and knolls, prairie plants including green milkweed, partridge pea, and sand panicgrass thrive. Wet depressions between the rises hold wet sedge meadow communities where plants more commonly found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts occur. These include lance-leaved violet, Virginia meadow beauty, twisted yellow-eyed grass, and the only known Ohio population of least St. Johns wort.
Located in Erie County 9 miles south of Sandusky. From the junction of OH-4 and US-2, follow OH-4 five miles south to Mason Rd; proceed 2.5 miles east on Mason Road to Taylor Road; then 1.5 miles to Scheid Road. The preserve entrance and parking area are on the south side of Scheid Road just beyond Taylor Road. A 1-mile loop trail is present.
Restrooms on site
Content from Official Website