The Legend of Dead Man Hollow

Deep within the shadowy embrace of Shawnee State Forest, nestled between the meandering Little Gum Hollow and Webb Hollow, rests a grave shrouded in mystery. This secluded patch of land, lying next to the twisting right fork of Twin Creek, is surrounded by towering trees, their gnarled branches whispering secrets of the past.

In the 1930s, diligent laborers from the Civilian Conservation Corps, while working to improve the forest’s winding roadways, stumbled upon something both haunting and profound: human bones, remnants of a life long forgotten. Nearby, tucked away in the crevice of a weathered rock overhang, lay an assortment of artifacts—combs, makeshift tools, and tin plates—items that once belonged to a wandering peddler. These relics hinted at the life of a man who traveled from home to home, bartering and trading, all while carrying the tools necessary to repair items for the settlers he visited in these remote, rugged lands.

The remains were gently relocated and reburied close to the small rock cleft that had sheltered them. A somber stone was placed along the right fork of Twin Creek, engraved with the cryptic inscription: “H. T. Aug. 13, 1824. A. D., Dead M.” This austere tribute marked the final resting place of the peddler, a man whose life had interwoven with the fabric of the nearby rural towns.

Legends from the old-timers began to circulate, recalling tales of this traveling peddler who traversed the countryside in the 1820s. As they reminisced, they shared whispers of an unsettling event—how he had mysteriously disappeared from his usual route. It was recounted that he had paused in the quaint village of Buena Vista along the banks of the Ohio River, selling his wares to locals eager for the curiosities he bore. After completing his trades, he set out on a rugged six-hour footpath heading northeast toward the settlement of Upper Turkey Creek, situated just a few miles north of Friendship. His journey, however, would remain unfinished, for he never reached his destination.

Rumors swirled like the mist that clung to the forest floor, with most believing the peddler had fallen victim to a treacherous ambush, his life snuffed out under sinister circumstances. Yet, the true nature of his demise remained cloaked in silence, a secret whispered only by the shadows of the trees.

As the years rolled by, residents began to keep their distance from the hollow after sundown, unsettled by ghostly cries that pierced the stillness of the night, accompanied by eerie whistling and strange sounds that seemed to echo from the depths of the forest. But nature, in all its relentless power, would eventually take its toll. Floodwaters from the course of Twin Creek surged and washed away the grave, revealing a trove of trinkets scattered nearby, a testament to the life and mystery of the ill-fated peddler who once roamed these haunted woods.

Finding the Grave

Shawnee State Park and Shawnee State Forest are in Scioto County, Ohio, in the Appalachian region. They are next to each other and offer many outdoor activities for nature lovers, hikers, campers, and wildlife watchers. Here’s what you can do:

Camping: The park offers campgrounds equipped with facilities for both tents and RVs, giving visitors the chance to fully immerse themselves in nature.

Fishing and Boating: The park’s lake is stocked with fish, making it an ideal spot for anglers. Plus, boating is welcomed on the lake, allowing for a day of fun on the water.

Picnicking: Designated picnic areas are available, providing perfect spots for families and groups to gather and enjoy meals in the great outdoors.

Wildlife Observation: The park’s diverse habitats support an array of wildlife species, making it a fantastic location for birdwatching and wildlife photography enthusiasts.

Extensive Trail System: The forest boasts over 60 miles of interconnected hiking trails that link to those in Shawnee State Park, offering various levels of difficulty and access to remote natural areas.

Hunting Opportunities: During specific seasons, hunting is permitted in designated areas of the forest, attracting those in search of deer and small game.

Horseback Riding: Certain trails are open for horseback riding, providing a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying the outdoors.

Hiking Trails: With a variety of trails designed for different skill levels, the park showcases stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a hiker’s paradise. Nearby Trail Information. Click here for a Shawnee State Park Trail Map

Lampblack Trail

Distance: 1.5 miles. This trail takes hikers through an oak-hickory forest located on high, dry ridgetops. It is also utilized by mountain bikers and disc golfers for a short section, but hikers have the right of way. The trailhead is conveniently situated at the end of the lodge parking lot, near the fork in the road that leads to the cabins. Follow the purple triangles.

Lake Trail

Distance: 0.8 miles  

Description: Offering excellent views of Turkey Creek Lake, this trail is part of the Park Loop. A bench provides a scenic overlook into Slate Hollow, where visitors can spot a beaver lodge. The trail can be accessed from either the Nature Center or the Back Pack Trail parking lots.  Follow the aquamarine triangles.

Lodge Beach Trail  

– Distance: 0.5 miles  

– Description: This trail leads from the lodge to the beach and features a steep grade both ways.  Follow the fluorescent green triangles.

Knighton Nature Trail  

– Distance: 2.9 miles  

– Description: Named after local mycologist Harry Knighton, who founded the North American Mycological Society, this trail showcases a rich variety of mushroom species and wildflowers. It provides views of Turkey Creek Lake from the park’s lowest to highest points.  Follow the red triangles.

Turkey Creek Nature Center Trail  

– Distance: 0.5-mile loop  

– Description: This family-friendly trail is covered in crushed gravel, making it wheelchair and stroller accessible. Visitors will enjoy views of Turkey Creek and can read interpretive signs about the life history of the trees along the path.  Follow the bright green triangles.

Park Loop Trail  

– Distance: 5 miles  

– Description: Showcasing a variety of ecosystems, this trail encircles Turkey Creek Lake and includes the park’s highest elevations. Visitors may encounter the endangered Timber Rattlesnake; if so, it is advised to walk around it, maintaining a safe distance. Hikers should wear sturdy boots and carry water and snacks.  Follow the blue triangles.

Lookout Trail  

– Distance: 1.5 miles  

– Description: Established in 1938 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), this historic trail traverses through a diverse forest and offers beautiful views of Roosevelt Lake and the original Theodore Roosevelt Game Preserve, which is now a campground. The trail is a loop featuring one steep climb and one steep descent.  Follow the hot pink triangles.

Campground Loop Trail  

– Distance: 0.5 miles  

– Description: This paved trail is ideal for families with small children, starting in the small loop of the campground and ending in the large loop. It connects with parts of the Park Loop Trail and the Knighton Trail.  Follow the coral triangles.

Shawnee Forest Day Hike Trail West Loop  

– Distance: 4.6 miles  Follow blue blazes.

Shawnee Forest Day Hike Trail East Loop  

– Distance: 7.2 miles  Follow blue blazes.