Did you know Ohio’s highest point once guarded America against Soviet nuclear attacks? Uncover the secrets of Campbell Hill—where elevation meets Cold War intrigue.
Campbell Hill: Ohio’s Crown Jewel at 1,549 Feet
Campbell Hill, rising 1,549 feet in Logan County, is Ohio’s highest natural point. Marked by an Ohio Historical Marker and a marble slab from the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey, this summit offers panoramic views and a unique military legacy.
Key Facts:
- Elevation: 1,549 feet (472 meters) above sea level.
- Location: Logan County, near Bellefontaine.
- Landmark: Historic marble slab with an “X” marking the exact peak.
Photos of Ohio’s Highest Point
Capture the rugged beauty of Campbell Hill through these iconic shots:
- Google Maps imagery: Aerial views of the summit and surrounding vocational school.
- Historical vs. Modern: Compare 1900s survey markers to today’s Ohio Hi-Point Career Center.
- Visitor Photos: Tagged on social media with #CampbellHill.
Pro Tip: Visit in autumn for vibrant foliage backdrops!
Campbell Hill vs. Ohio County, WV & KY
Confused about similar-sounding locations? Here’s the breakdown:
| Location | Highest Point | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio County, WV | Dunkard Knob | 1,647 ft |
| Ohio County, KY | Unnamed Hill | 623 ft |
| Campbell Hill, OH | Ohio’s True Summit | 1,549 ft |
Note: Ohio County, KY, is unrelated to the state of Ohio.
Mt. Rumpke: The Landfill Myth Debunked
Despite rumors, Mt. Rumpke (a landfill in Colerain Township) is not Ohio’s highest point. At 1,096 feet, it’s dwarfed by Campbell Hill.
Why the Myth Persists:
- Rumpke’s visible trash mound creates an optical illusion.
- Satirical claims (like Austin Kiplinger’s Maryland “summit”) muddy public perception.
Ohio’s Second-Highest Summit
While Campbell Hill reigns supreme, these peaks follow closely:
- Bellefontaine’s Nearby Hills: ~1,400–1,500 ft.
- Hocking Hills: 1,200 ft (popular for hiking but not record-breaking).
Fun Fact: Ohio’s lowest point (455 ft) is the Ohio River—making its elevation range 1,094 ft.
Cold War Secrets at Campbell Hill
From 1951–1969, Campbell Hill housed the 664th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron, a linchpin in America’s Cold War defense.
How It Worked:
- SAGE System: Radar and computers identified enemy aircraft.
- Data Flow: Sent to Battle Creek, MI, for analysis.
- Legacy: Employed 300+ locals and guarded against Soviet threats.
Case Study: In 1962, the base tracked a UFO scare later attributed to weather balloons.
Visiting Campbell Hill: Reviews & Tips
Visitors praise its historical significance but note limited amenities.
What to Expect:
- ✅ Free access: Open year-round.
- ✅ Educational signage: Ohio Historical Marker details.
- ❌ No restrooms: Plan ahead.
Visitor Review: “Quiet and reflective—a must for history buffs!” – Sarah, TripAdvisor
Future Plans: Museum & Preservation
The Ohio Hi-Point Career Center, now occupying the site, plans a museum showcasing:
- Cold War radar technology.
- Archival photos of the 664th Squadron.
- Solomon Hogue’s 1830 land deeds.
Community Impact: The school trains 1,200+ students annually in trades like robotics and healthcare.
FAQs About Ohio’s High Points
- Is Summit County the highest? No—it’s named for its terrain, not elevation.
- Natural vs. Man-Made: Campbell Hill is natural; Mt. Rumpke is artificial.
- How to Verify Elevation: Use USGS tools or the Geodetic Survey marker.
Conclusion: Explore Ohio’s Sky-High Legacy
From its 1,549-foot summit to its Cold War radar base, Campbell Hill blends nature, history, and innovation. Whether you’re snapping photos or digging into military lore, this landmark delivers.
