Serpent Mound State Memorial

The Great Serpent Mound should be an UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is the largest and best representation of an effigy mound in the world. This was my second time visiting Serpent Mound. I love visiting this mound for the cultural experience and aesthetics. It was a nice stroll around the mound on a paved path with an overlook. Unfortunately, the observation tower was closed which was a huge disappointment. The mound is best seen from high up. Due to the observation tower being a historical feature, it has to be restored which is costly. (Someone with means please donate the funds to restore!) My photos do not do the mound justice. The gift shop/museum is lovely offering a cool respite, information and nice souvenirs. Staff were friendly. The only other downside was the restrooms were closed and port o lets were available.

Let me say first that this is definitely a really cool sacred sight to see! I was more disappointed with the fact that we had to pay to park our car and walk around somewhere we only hung out for about 45 minutes. Any way they can get you to pay I guess. Cool historic site? Gotta pay to use parking lot and bathrooms. The background and history behind the Serpent mound was extremely fascinating though and I found it to be a very cool experience nonetheless.

Visited during Summer Solstice! Beautiful views and sunset. Went back next day to visit the museum and take the trails. I'm very glad to have gone. I'm always saddened at the thought of the long history lost and what has been lost to us in the name of progress or trying to conserve even... accidently, and out of ignorance at the times... disturbed ground and lost information... thank goodness for what has been saved and found out these days of course. Oh ! To have been witness to such greatness... and the indigenous Native Americans during that time.

Thoroughly enjoyable. Very chill ride through the countryside to get to the site. Plenty of parking and shaded areas. There is a nice paved path that goes around the mound, and there are picnic areas in the shade to enjoy. The visitor center has a small exhibit to walk through with a brief orientation video. The visitor center has snacks and cold drinks for purchase. The metal observation tower from 1906 is still there but not available for use. At the very end of the mouth of the serpent, there is an observation deck with a nice view. Currently, the main bathrooms are out, but they have Porta potties as a backup.

We got to check this off our bucket list, after seeing it on Ancient Aliens. The maps and information along the walk are helpful. It's pretty amazing to see the size of it, and the way it winds around. We were disappointed we drove five hours to see it, and the look out tower was closed for repair, so we didn't get to see a top view. The restroom buildings were beautifully rustic on the outside, but more modern inside. The odor from the tree blooms along the path was sweet. The look out point was nice, but the trees are thick, couldn't see much. There was a hiking trail below, off the paved path.

This has always been on my must see list. I am from a town in Ohio a few hours away. I was visiting Portsmouth, and made sure on my way home I took a side trip to see the Great Serpent Mound. Very well maintained park. I am fascinated by history. Great paths, and I wish I had more time to take the nature trails. Easy to walk. The tower was under maintenance, but it didn’t take from my experience. Be aware that you may have cell phone service issues here and on your drive here. I use T-Mobile and my service didn’t exist here. Plan on this being a no service area.

Serpent Mound State Memorial in Peebles, Ohio is a must-visit historic landmark. The site is reasonably priced and offers a unique glimpse into history. Legend has it that the mound is over 1,000 years old, adding to its mystique. The area is quiet and offers great views, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful visit. The gift shop was a nice touch, offering a variety of souvenirs. Be sure to go below the cliff and find the stone obelisk that was originally found near the mouth of the serpent. This stone obelisk is said to have been thrown off the cliff, adding to the site's intriguing history. Overall, it's definitely worth the drive!

If you want to see and amazing earthwork here in the United States, the Great Serpent Mound is an excellent choice. It's a peaceful spot with a path that goes all the mound, so you can see the entire thing. It takes about 15-20 minutes to walk around it. There are a couple of overlooks by the river as well. The sunny side felt energizing, while the shadow side felt zen and mellow. The gift so had some good books and shirts for sale. Would definitely go again.

Beautiful place It costs $8 per car. There is a small museum/gift shop that you should enter before walking around. The museum although small does have some great information. The walk around the serpent mound was informative with many points of information along the way. There is also a nature walk through the woods that was really nice. There is a picnic area. Bathrooms were closed during our visit with only a portapotty available. I always wanted to visit so we drove over an hour out of our way to see it. I thought it was worth the visit. It is similar to visiting a cemetery. Peaceful and reflective as you walk around. You only need about an hour to explore.

When we were visiting family they thought we might enjoy coming here. It's kind of cool place with nice trails to walk and to go around the mound itself is not a long or strenuous walk. There is what appears to be a look out that doesn't really have anything special to see. The observation deck that would allow you to see the entire mound is in disrepair and unusable at this time. There is a cute little gift shop with some museum items in the back. Can't say it's worth coming out of your way too much for, but if you're nearby and like hiking it would be nice. Plenty of parking and there was no one at the gate when we were there and it was free.

Love this park but the observation tower is not accessible and won't be for years according to park staff so you can't see the whole thing at once at this time.

THE GREAT SERPENT MOUND is said to be the world's largest effigy mound. The prehistoric mound boasts a length of 1,376 feet, a height of 4 to 5 feet and a varying width of about 19 feet give or take. What appears to be an oval head is actually said to be an egg being swallowed by the great serpent. There are seven coils to the body of the serpent throughout the mound but local information signs indicate there was once an 8th coil just before the head. The mound is said to have been built around 100 BCE, which makes it around 2100 years old... but there is strong argument it is far younger at around 850 years old. However, most seem to agree that the shape and positioning of the mound was somehow influenced by astronomical events. There is a large parking area for visitors, two large restroom houses, a picnic pavilion, museum/visitor center and overlook. IF you are making plans to visit months in advance, keep in mind there is a walking tour the second Friday of every month guided by archaeologist Bill Kennedy. Tour is 1.5 hours long and begins @ 1:30pm. There is also an observation tower which basically gives you the best view of the mound in its entirety. However, the tower was closed during our July 2023 visit and is not scheduled to reopen until repairs are completed. Work doesn't begin until 2024, so its reopening had not been determined as of my review. We didn't view the movie highlighting the history of the mound @ the visitor center nor did we take any tours. We only read the informational signs along the self-guided trail. The most interesting thing I discovered was the meteorite impact crater near the site. Although eroded by time, the original rim diameter has been estimated at around 5 miles wide and the impact is estimated to have occurred about 256 million years ago... long before the mound was created. Other studies show the original diameter is closer to 9 miles wide. Here is a video explaining the impact structure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-VZMxVWMGc&t=3s FINAL THOUGHTS Honestly, the mound is not a very exciting place to visit (although I think school-age children will love it). The information is cool and the history is interesting, but the full mound is not as easy to see as I'd hoped. Best to come here when the observation tower repairs have been completed. Drones are off limits, so currently the trail view is all you get. 2023 / 11

Great place to view but DO NOT GO IN THE WINTER. Unfortunately we felt like we didn't get the whole experience. We were told the museum and gift store were closed but then we found all the nature trails were closed along with the tower which was under repair. We were able to go along the path around the serpent which was very interesting. Be sure to go in the Spring ,Summer, or Fall.

Serpent Mound is really interesting. I only regret stopping by briefly in winter. I'll need to come by in the spring during regular weather! I'd also come again with a friend to give myself more peace of mind as a female traveler (not to say I felt unsafe, it's just safer in general to explore with a buddy). The great Serpent Mound is a 2,000 foot long and 3 foot high prehistoric effigy mound. It was built on what is known as the Serpent Mound crater plateau, running along the Ohio Brush Creek in Adams County. The mound is the largest serpent effigy in the world. The locals say the head and tail of Serpent Mound align with the sunrise and sunset. It's been featured on a number of esoteric TV shows for its healing properties and indigenous roots. You should look it up...its profoundly interesting. The grounds are meticulously kept and the atmosphere is physically lovely. They also have a small gift shop. Had it snowed, I imagine I'd appreciate it less. I'm definitely looking forward to stopping here again next time I'm in the area! I'm not well-versed on the lore yet but will be upon my next visit...I'm very interested.

The observation tower is closed so you can't really see too much. They do not have an ETA on when it will be fixed but I would not go until it is. Also $8 to park the car. The bathroom were clean and in working order.

Absolutely The tower That thing easy to fix I was so disapointed Then the free magazine show people at the top of the tower of towerADAMS COUNTY OHIO DO BETTER SHAME ON YOU

Nice outdoor family time. My father is really into aliens and I guess he had saw this place on National Geographic. We tried to go once before last winter, however their winter hours are a little weird if I remember correctly. Very nice and large picnic area with a charcoal grill. Cute little gift shop. Pay for parking inside the shop. I wouldn't go again because I feel like there wasn't much to see as it is but its a nice place to run around and get fresh air. Especially the kids.

My wife and I stopped here for a visit and really enjoyed it. It was a peaceful walk around and everyone was very friendly to us even though we were there close to closing time. It's amazing how well preserved the mound is and it's important that we honor the culture of not just the Native Americans that resided there, but Native Americans as a whole. The only reason for 4 stars is because the tower was closed, so we couldn't get the amazing overhead view.

I thought the walk around the mound would take longer. Too bad the tower hasn't been replaced. It would have been interesting seeing it from above. No drones are allowed.

Cool historical site that is meticulously preserved. One star removed because the tower was closed, so we couldn't see the best view. The gift shop is very over the top with tchotchkes, collectible rocks, and little flutes for kids to olay as they wander around. I think they make a big effort there for raising $ but it would be nice if they offered some interactive classes like guided yoga, or a tour including more native history. Could they do bead classes or basket weaving? Somrthing to increase connection to native history. There is a side area to the gift shop that seems more like an afterthought with a couple of preserved items. It would be cool if they added more items to the museum side.

The Spectacular Serpent Mound, the largest serpent effigy in the world. My Adventure In The Serpent Mound. Absolutely breathtaking & magical... I had a very solitary & private self tour of an ancient relic dating back to 381 BC.

This site is pretty remarkable--seeing how an ancient culture was well tuned to the movements of the Cosmos is wild. I did not get a chance to see it from the tower, because it was closed for renovations. I wish the site would allow drone footage to be filmed because you really need to see this from an areal perspective.

As we approach "that age" when our thoughts turn along the lines of 'where to take the grandkids', we often mine the deep recesses of our thought banks for educational road trips and the like. I've always had fond memories of Serpent Mound, nestled off the road near Hillsboro and Chillicothe. If nothing else, the drive out here from Columbus or Dayton is quite lovely especially in the spring and autumn which I've been lucky to do twice in my life. But the attraction here is also this magnificent effigy mound constructed by the pre-Mississippian people known as "Adena". It's not only the largest mound in the state but also the best preserved. One needs to drive to Cahokia outside of St Louis to find a larger site. There's an excellent museum and interpretive center on site and the surrounding area is peaceful and arboreal. Highly recommended for educational purposes and for peace of mind. I've often wondered how many of these sites might still be around had we had the sense of environmental and cultural stewardship we have today in the 21st century. We are grateful for those land owners and farmers who decades ago had the foresight to leave the mound intact. In any case please visit this one soon, and..... yes bring the kids too! Mahalo for reading my review.

Amazing and magical place to visit! We think the ancient people did just hunting and gathering. Nope! Truly worth visiting!

The administrators or idiots at this landmark got it wrong. This ancient effigy was built a lot earlier than 1000 AD.

Awesome experience but wish the tower was open, so you could take an overlook of the whole thing.

We have been to this park when the visitors center is open and when it's closed. It's nice both ways. This time we went on New Year's Day and it was super warm (for this time of year in Ohio). We took our dog and walked the pavement. It's fun but the dog wanted more. So we went down through the woods and walked under the overlook. It was nice but I am sure in the Spring it gets muddy. There were squirrels and lots of birds. Odd for the 1st of January. We found the creek and some No Trespassing signs which indicates that the surrounding area may be private property. In order to park, you should pay $8 but when the gift shop is closed you're on the honor system. The next time I go I plan to leave more in the lock box than the $8 fee. We like this place and hope the park continues to improve.

It's remarkable that this exquisite 2000 year-old effigy mound still exists. Americans of my generation were much more likely to internalize a healthy dose of 'manifest destiny' in their school years, a philosophy that went hand-in-hand with the belief that the pre-Columbian Americas were populated by small bands of primitive tribes, and that the Ohio valley was untouched wilderness. More recent scholarship tells us the truth is a lot more complicated. It's true that the first whites to explore many parts of the Americas encountered places that were already depopulated, demoralized, and in crisis. Some combination of disease, factionalism among native groups, and violence aided colonial expansion through the Ohio valley. One of the consequences of opening up the region to a land grab was that settlers only cared about cheap land for farming, and their beliefs generally led them to dismiss the signs of history that came before them, a perhaps understandable yet tragic approach to claiming legitimacy in the region. Consequently, countless relics of pre-Columbian civilization have been erased from the landscape. Not only is the Serpent Mound an incredible example of a pre-Columbian landmark that survived, but the park aims to put the mound into its appropriate context, one relic of a large entrenched civilization, not just a peculiar and mysterious feature carved whimsically into one mountainside. We loved our visit, and really appreciated our enthusiastic guides. I was especially surprised that I got a chance to try my hand at throwing an atlatl! For better or worse, the Serpent mound isn't really on the way to just about anything. That might be a good thing, since that has helped it survive these many years. But any person with a particular curiosity for human history should consider this a must-visit if you are in the area.

Visited the Serpent Mound with my parents and two boys. It was very well kept and beautiful to see. It doesn't take very long to visit the mound and to walk the trail around. The gift shop was closed during our visit but we didn't mind. The volunteers that were there were very friendly.

Interesting, mysterious landmark. $8 to park vehicle, payment is taken in the museum and gift shop. Gift shop has reasonably priced items. Take time to check out the small museum. The staff is very nice and passionate about what they do. Grounds are well kept and clean. Climb the short fire tower to get a nice view of nearly the entire serpent formation. Several overlooks are available to see down into the ravine below. I highly recommend taking the time to do the hiking trail (proper shoes required). Its a nice walk down to the riverside and back up.

This was quite a disappointment. I'd always wanted to go and see this, but when I did, I found you couldn't even see the head of the serpent from the overlook tower. If you take the trail around it(which I did) you really can't take it in because it sits down so far. The signs have me some great information, but that was really it. I think the lookout tower should make it possible to see the entire mound or setup another one to make that happen.

We came to see the summer solstice here and were NOT disappointed. I read the 3 poor reviews, wow! Stop whining and stop and see this amazing Native site! Was truly a wondrous experience!! Will be back!

We made the 90 minute drive from Dayton, OH. Yesterday. We enjoyed our visit but wish we would've went in better weather and when the museum was open. The drive was scenic and we enjoy driving so there's that. I enjoyed the informative signs giving tidbits if information about the area and definitely appreciated that the path around the mound was paved. We climbed the tower to get a good view and I was terrified the whole wAy up/down. It was stable but there were a few stairs missing some wood. We walked a few quick laps around the mound then left as there wasn't much else to do with the museum Bri g closed. I would've liked to check the nature trail but it's been raining a lot so it was pure mud. I would like to check it out in better weather and will update review if we do.

Located in the middle of nowhere, but full of history and a sacred site, slithers the Serpent Mound. The mound is something I've wanted to visit for about as long as I knew about it but had yet to visit. So, one slow day we drove due East and finally reached the location of one of the most unique native earth works on the planet. I won't go into the history and significance too much, you have the google for that, but you better believe that the mound is extremely significant and apart of a network of earthen mounds that unfortunately have been lost to time due to inconsiderate white men. There is also a GIGANTIC (8mi diameter) impact crater that surrounds the mound. We also viewed the three burial mounds nearby. The museum was closed when we visited. The mound is visible year round though. Do check their website/facebook for any special events or hours. We only saw about 2 or three families when we visited. It was quiet and a great way to experience this area. If you bring your dog, make sure it is leashed.

This is a place my husband has wanted to visit since learning about it in elementary school. It is the largest serpent effigy mound in the world. What is an effigy? According to Wikipedia it is a "raised pile of earth built in the shape of a stylized animal, symbol, religious figure, human, or other figure." But I digress. It has a fascinating history, and it is amazing that various ends/curves of the serpent coincide with solstice and equinox events. It is believed that the Adena culture built the mound (1000 BC- AD 1). I wish it were not as hot, and the grass was greener (but it's probably because I went in the summer). The museum is small, but is worth looking at to understand more about the mound, and the gift shop has nice little trinkets. It's worth it to take a look at this because of the historical significance. Parking fee: $7 for personal vehicle

Great spot to visit, the entire family enjoyed the history and beauty of this well preserved Ohio Landmark. Highly recommend visiting.

If you are on route 32, don't forget to visit this place. You have to see the serpent mound in person. Helpful staff and nice gift shop.

as a child, I loved coming here. I brought my daughter to let her experience it for the first time. she loved it. memories flooded back for me, as well as the history that this place offers. the museum was very informative, as well as the signs about the property. a must go if you are a history buff.

Serpent Mound is a unique site in southern Ohio that is worth it if you are in the area. My husband and I had heard of this place and were curious, so it made the top of our list for the next time we were to be in the area. It seems to be located in the middle of nowhere, but that comes with the territory of southern Ohio. There is an $8 charge which you pay at the visitor center. After 6 I believe they close and it would be free. The area is not that large but for how profound and peaceful it is, it is worth your $8. You can climb a tower to view the S-shaped mound and walk a trail around the mound. There are a couple trails in the wilderness beside the mound also, but they're not too extensive. The visitor center has a lot of info and is very museum-like. You could spend a couple hours here. You will get a very tranquil and reflective vibe from being here.

This is basically the coolest place I've ever been in my life. I've been here twice. You have to really be brave to climb the lookout. I did, but coming down was hard. Looking out over the edge at the view is hard. If you're afraid of heights, just stay on the ground. I mean, you might see the little lookout tower and say to yourself, "That's not too high." Well, really, it's not too high. I think just being so exposed with no real walls on a rickety staircase make up for the little bit of height. Like it was worse than the Hancock Building. Basically, if you want a thrill, climb those steps. If the snake hill is exciting enough, stay on the ground. I would stay on the ground. And if the snake hill isn't exciting to you, then I totally judge you and think you're probably an actual idiot. In a bad way. Like this was is my art history book. If you can't appreciate this snake, something is really wrong with you.

Nice spot for a picnic. Good for a quick stop. Amazing customer service and their bathrooms are well kept. Make sure to stop by the museum section in the gift shop and to pay the parking fee

First impression (****) : After we pulled into the long drive and entered into the paved parking lot, the grounds looked extremely clean. There was plenty of parking.There were separate stone buildings that house men's and women's restrooms. At the far end of the parking lot was a black wooden building that is the serpent mound museum. There were places to picnic, benches to sit, and Pavilion to party. Actual impression (****) : In terms of the building, it was 80% gift shop, 20% museum. In terms of the serpent mound itself, it was a mound. I've seen things on TV about it, and it looked bigger on TV. The observation deck was a nice feature. Overall, I appreciated the historical value. There is also a nature trail off to the right of the mound trail. We decided not to go because we did not prepare for it. There are two observation points that offer nice views of the country landscape. Lasting impression (****) : It was nice that the mound was preserved with respect. And I'm happy that something so unassuming can still stymie the most intelligent scientists. In closing, it serves as a reminder that human history is not as simple as we are led to believe.

State parks don't get more interesting than Serpent mound. Now, I gave this a 5-star rating, but don't expect rides and a human-sized snake to take pictures with. This is a real piece of Ohio history. The little hut/gift shop contains a lot of info. Entry is "per car" - and we paid $8 (May 2015). Not bad. There's plenty of areas to bring a picnic lunch to eat - picnic tables, etc. The serpent itself is quite interesting, and worth the steep climb up the viewing tower. Made my wife a little nervous - we called it "extreme state-park-ing".

I visited the Great Serpent Mound on a windy Saturday October 15th. It just so happened that on this day there was a fund raiser for the Ghost Horse. I suggest a Google search...but I digress.... The Great Serpent Mound is pretty awesome. It seems that most people I know have forgotten this little tid bit from Ohio History...but let me remind you...this was built by Indians. Built by Indians way before the European invasion. Built by the Indians who have been here quite sometime before modern day man. It is quite possibly one of the OLDEST most ANCIENT structures in the United States that was built by Humans (or something else????) This is a man made beauty that embraces nature, a true green spirit. This place is pretty phenomenal and words simply cannot describe. The surrounding crater is worth a good explore as well.

This place is amazing. You can do the easy .5 mile walk around the serpent or take the hiking trail. It is a special place. I will be back before I leave Ohio.

This is one of the most fascinating places I have visited. A world-class archaeological treasure in southern Ohio. Nestled just inside an ancient meteorite crater, the Serpent Mound is an ancient earthwork monument attributed to the Adena culture (800 BC-AD 100). It is absolutely breathtaking. There is a small museum/gift shop nearby with extremely helpful staff.

Awesome place to visit. Be sure to check out the museum and watch the video presentation. Beautiful grounds too

The drive we took to the site from the east was fairly long and mostly isolated. It was very pretty in places, and there were many old abandoned buildings along the way, if you have an interest in those. We left toward the west and found it to be more farm land than the other direction. The mound park charges $8 per car, and you are expected to pay even if the museum and gift shop are closed, so bring cash. There are bathroom facilities available even when the center is closed. The walk to the mound from the car is an easy one, and the trail around it is very near the mound, crossing it in one place. You are not supposed to walk on the mound for obvious reasons, except on the crossing. I'm not in great shape for walking, and I had little problem with the trail. It is a fascinating thing, and it was nice to see it first hand. There is an overlook, but the area below is so overgrown that you can't see anything beyond. If you enjoy hiking on unpaved trails there seemed to be several there as well. There is also at least one burial mound on the site near the parking lot. One caution: The county where the park is located does not spray for mosquitos. While we were there I was attacked quite a lot by mosquitos on my exposed skin. The other areas of Ohio where we went on this trip did not have this problem. Apparently the site managers are aware that there is standing water in the area, but believe the area wildlife is fed by the mosquitos, so they won't spray for them. Be sure to take precautions before venturing outside at this site.

Not sure what we were missing but didn't enjoy this place at all. Went to the overlook and saw the mounds but we didn't even went to walk around and explore.

Pros: Overlook provides a good aerial view. The signage along the trail is interesting. Cons: Museum closes even with a slight chance of incremental weather. Not worth the drive.

This was a great day trip from Columbus. The drive was a scenic, two hour drive to southwest Ohio. As you get closer to the area, amenities become less available. So, do be sure you have a full tank of gas and maybe take a picnic lunch along to enjoy the park. They have picnic tables and shelter areas around the park. There is an $8 parking fee for those who are not members of the Ohio Historical Society. Otherwise, your visit is covered with your membership. The premises has a small museum and gift shop. The museum has great information about the formation of the serpent mound and early Ohio life. Do spend time watching their video as it will help enrich your understanding of the Serpent Mound and surrounding Indian burial mounds. The park rangers were quite friendly and very open to answering questions or providing directions. Do check their web site for hours of availability as it changes seasonally. The park offers a hiking trail as well as walkway and overlook for the serpent mound. The park is fairly serene and can be a great family outing.