French Creek Hemlocks Natural Area
This preserve is comprised predominantly by a mature hemlock and northern hardwood forest. A steep hillside southwest of Deer Creek Road slopes down to a broad floodplain with wetlands, as well as more than a mile of frontage along French Creek. The preserve is part of more than 1,900 acres of land between Carlton and the City of Franklin that have been conserved by WPC and our partner organizations.
Currently, there is no designated parking area at this new preserve. Future management includes removal of a derelict structure and piles of debris, and construction of a parking area and hiking trail, and control of exotic invasive plants. We hope to complete the clean-up and parking area by 2025.
Location
- French Creek Township, Venango County
Dates Acquired
2024
Size
Approximately 250 acres
Notable features
mature deciduous forest, hemlock forest, high gradient streams
Recreational Activities
- Fishing
- Hiking (Off-Trail)
- Hunting
- Wildlife Watching
- Birding
Plan Your Visit
GPS Coordinates: 39.906115, -79.459889
Directions
From the City of Franklin, travel NW on Liberty St., then turn right on to US 322 W/ W 13 St. Continue on US 322 W/ W 13 St for .5 mile. Turn left on US 322 W/Grant St. and continue for 7.4 miles. Turn left on Utica Rd. and continue for 2.7 miles. Turn right on Grant St./Deer Creek Rd. for 1.4 miles.
The preserve is on both sides of Deer Creek Rd. Currently, there is no designated parking area at this new preserve. However, visitors can park along the road and at multiple pull-offs. Refer to our interactive map for details.