Smokey Bear 75th Anniversary GeoTour
Since 1944, Smokey Bear has taught millions of Americans about their role in preventing wildfires. 75 years later, Smokey is celebrating a milestone birthday. Honor him and this timeless message of wildfire prevention by finding all 75 caches in this GeoTour.
About This Specific Location
Placed with the permission of the Ohio Division of Forestry. This is 1 of 10 hidden Smokey Bear geocaches in OH and 1 of 75 hidden on the entire Smokey Bear Geotour which is located in the following 7 states: VA, MD, OH, DE, NJ, PA and WV.
The approximate 3,000 acre Fernwood State Forest is located 5 miles southwest of Steubenville. Acquisition of the forest began in 1961 with the purchase of 2,107 acres. The remaining acreage was acquired in 1996. A substantial portion of the land has been strip mined for coal. However, the production of acid mine water is minimal because of the neutralizing effect of limestone deposits. The majority of unstripped lands are located on forested ridges and valleys. Subsequent reforestation and installation of most recreational facilities was funded through the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965 and the Ohio Capital Improvements program. The land has been restored to a beautiful, healthy forest, providing visitors with many outdoor recreational opportunities.
More About This GeoTour
By visiting all of these locations, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of why it is so important to prevent wildfires - whether in your backyard or out in the forest. The Middle-Atlantic Interstate Forest Fire Protection Compact are the Hosts of this GeoTour. We offer several trackable prizes so please use this GeoTour Passport to keep track of your progress.