From Strip-Mining to Frank Lloyd Wright-Inspired Cabins

Are you looking for your next getaway or a unique spot to connect with nature and history? We invite you to discover the dramatic transformation of South-East Ohio’s landscape over the last 60 years, now home to incredible views and modern amenities. As the structural engineer, SMBH was proud to join the team for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' cabins at Jesse Owens State Park. To appreciate the extent of the changes, we’ve put together a short history of the area and a sneak peek at the new cabins.

From 1969 to 1991, AEP and its subsidiary, the Central Ohio Coal Company, strip-mined coal across 13,000 acres in four southeastern Ohio counties. The site featured the Big Muskie, the largest single-bucket digging machine ever built. After the 1977 Clean Air Act, changing market conditions led to the mine’s closure.

Following the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977, AEP and other mining companies were required to reclaim mined land through their ReCreation Land program. This included restoring natural contours, stabilizing soil, and reintroducing native plants, which enabled future development such as parks and sustainable architecture. Approximately three million trees were planted and 350 lakes and ponds were stocked with fish, creating a revitalized environment that now supports recreational facilities and inspired the integration of nature-focused architectural projects like the state park cabins.

Newly reclaimed mining sites are typically planted with fast-growing grasses, making them ideal for projects like The Wilds, one of North America’s largest conservation centers. Opened in 1984, The Wilds occupies 10,000 acres of ReCreation Land near the 54,525-acre Jesse Owens State Park. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources opened the new park in 2018 and recently added a visitor center and rental cabins to complement existing campsites.

The 10 new cabins, opened in April, are inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright and feature clean lines, natural materials, and designs that connect architecture with the landscape. Prairie-style elements include large overhangs, expansive porches, and windows that highlight the outdoors.

Each 900 SF cabin is more of a rental house than a primitive cabin, with heat and air conditioning, a full kitchen equipped with appliances, cookware, and dishware, a gas fireplace, and Wi-Fi. Each has an outdoor space with a gas grill, table seating, and a fire pit with Adirondack chairs. The cabins sleep 6, are ADA-accessible, and offer pet-friendly options.

A key feature of the cabins is their windows, which offer near-panoramic views of the park. To maximize window space, two of the three cabin styles use Strong-Wall High-Strength Wood Shear Walls for structural support.

Take a look at photos of the grand opening to see the fantastic results of the project. Whether you're interested in hiking scenic trails, fishing, or simply enjoying wildlife viewing and birdwatching, Jesse Owens State Park offers something for everyone. We’re so pleased with it that we’re already looking into booking our next vacation!