As we’ve been spending so much time in Springfield, Ohio, we wanted to get to know the surrounding area a little more. Ohio is home to an astonishing 136 designated State Nature Preserves, and one of the nearest to Springfield is Cedar Bog, just south of Urbana. On a sunny day, we drove up to check it out.
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Cedar Bog Boardwalk
How many years have we been visiting Springfield? At least eighteen, and yet we discover new attractions every time we’re back. Cedar Bog was an exciting find, because we knew absolutely nothing about it; we simply looked up nearby nature areas on the map. This preserve is not large, and a visit isn’t going to consume your whole day (unless you’re a birdwatcher, and plan on sitting quietly for hours with binoculars). Normies like us will finish touring Cedar Bog in less than an hour, which makes it an easy excursion from Springfield.
Cedar Bog Video
So, the first thing to know about Cedar Bog, is that it’s not a “bog” at all, but a “fen”. They’re both wetlands, but bogs are fed from rainwater only, while a fen takes its water from the ground. Running below the surface of Cedar Bog is a remnant of the once mighty Teays River. Before the Ice Ages, this was a major American river, stretching from Illinois all the way to Virginia. It was disrupted by retreating glaciers, but parts of its ancient valley remain underground, still influencing groundwater flow in places like Cedar Bog.
Of course, before visiting Cedar Bog, I couldn’t have told you what a “fen” even was. And I’m still not sure I care all that much. But regardless of what type of wetland this is, the experience of visiting Cedar Bog is a lot of fun … and that, I definitely do care about.
Cedar Bog Hiker
This being a protected wetland, you don’t actually get to walk on the ground. Instead, there’s a boardwalk which goes about 1.5 kilometers into the reserve and leads you on a nice loop by some of the most beautiful parts. Along the way, there are signs providing information about the environment, foliage, and animals who call the park home, such as the endangered spotted turtle.
We didn’t see any turtles, but we still had a wonderful time touring the reserve. It was a warm autumn day, and the scenes were just spectacular. The woman working the desk had suggested we come back in early summer, when the flowers of the fen are in full bloom… and I think we’ll take her up on that! If this place gets even more beautiful, it’s something we really need to see.
Cedar Bog Info
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Cedar Bog Photos
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Cedar Bog Map
Urbana, OH FAQs
What is Urbana known for?
Urbana features a lovely small-town charm, a picturesque historic downtown, and local sites like the Champaign Aviation Museum, Grimes Field Airport, and Mad River Gorge, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. It also has a significant aviation legacy connected to WWII and the restoration of military aircraft.
3. How big is Urbana, Ohio?
Urbana is home to about 11,000 residents. As the county seat of Champaign County, it features a blend of cozy neighborhoods, agricultural land, and charming local shops.
What is the history of Urbana?
Since its founding in 1805, Urbana has a rich historical background connected to the War of 1812, the Underground Railroad, and the origins of aviation. It played a vital role in shaping Ohio and is filled with many historic sites that have been preserved.
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Urbana History Book
Urbana by Ilona Matkovszki and Dennis Roberts offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past through rare photos and local stories. From historic buildings and towering trees to surprising tales—like a backyard alligator—this book captures the charm and character of one of Illinois’ most interesting towns.
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