There are may recreational forests in Chungcheong nam-do. Wherever you go, there is full of delicate fragrance from natural forests. They are the best well-being places for rest and health while you can escape from the summer heat. Let me introduce you the best spots where you can be relaxed with scent of woods.

Oseosan mountain national forest

▲Oseosan mountain national forest

Oseosan mountain national forest is a dense natural forest having Oseosan mountain(791m), the most outstanding mountain in Chungcheongnam-do, and Myeongdae valley in it. In Sanjeong, which is 1 hour and 20 minutes away from the forest, you can see a magnificent sight of flame grass and wild flowers sway in the wind against the backdrop of beautiful sunset in the West Sea. On your way to Myeongdae valley, you will be welcomed by Janghyeon reservoir, which is a famous fishing place, historic Guihakjeong, and six pine trees that has grown into one. Various facilities for convenient stay of families include resting center, house in the woods, training center, kids pool, barefoot walking area, nature walk, campsite, outdoor classroom, communal kitchen, and pavilion.

Huirisan national Pine-Tree forest

▲Huirisan national Pine-Tree forest

Huirisan national pine-tree forest is a natural forest opened in 1998. The first thing you will meet when you enter the forest is a reservoir. You can go fishing in the reservoir while taking a rest in the Huirisan natural forest. An octagonal pavilion, which is a perfect place to overlook the reservoir, is one of the popular courses in the forest. When you walk along the hiking trail up to the top, you can see the vast West Sea. Near the forest are famous tourist spots including Chunjangdae beach, Keumkang river-mouth weir, and Hansan ramie fabric town, adding another attraction.

Seongju mountain Recreational forest
Seongju mountain recreational forest is a recreational forest transformed from an abandoned mine area by Korea Forest Service. It is stunning to see 4km of a dense forest where you find it difficult to see the sky even in the daylight, and crystal-clear water from the deep valley. At Seongju mountain, two valleys are especially beautiful. They are Hwajang-gol valley starting from the entrance of the forest, and Shimyeondong valley starting from Seongju three-way intersection, going upwards through Seongjusaji. There are hiking trails that follow the two valleys up to the mountain top with various facilities on the way for hikers, making it a four-season recreational forest in every aspect where people can enjoy the nature throughout the year.

Keumkang Recreational forest

▲Keumkang Recreational forest

With the relocation of Chungnam forest environment research center in 1994, a nearby well-preserved dense forest was designated as Keumkang recreational forest. There are arboretum, greenhouse, wild flower garden, pond, octagonal pavilion as well as forest museum opened in 1997, making it the largest natural forest with cultural aspects and nature exploration center in the central region of Korea.

Bongsoosan Recreational forest

▲Bongsoosan Recreational forest

Bongsoosan recreational forest opened in 2007. It is where various wild birds and beasts inhabit, and natural and artificial forests are harmonized. In particular, it boasts a beautiful scenary throughout the year with Yedang reservoir in it. Through the beautiful woods are various amenitiesㆍrelaxation spots such as house in the forest, public
square, walking trail, and forest exploration area, being a good resting place for families and group tourists.

Anmyondo Recreational forest
Anmyondo recreational forest is where you can enjoy both mountain and the ocean with well-preserved natural woods of 50 to 80 years old, forest tree breeding center, and habitat of goldenrain trees. Around the forest are famous beaches such as Ggokjji, Sambong, and Bangpo beaches. In addition, it is the place where 2002 Anmyondo International Flower Exhibition was held, an event officially approved by International Association of Horticultural Association.

Taehak mountain natural forest
The mountain’s name, Taehak(455m) means a dancing crane as the shape of the mountain resembles a crane that is dancing. Various wild flowers, birds, and beasts inhabit the mountain. In particular, as groups of pine trees grow in the forest, it is a proper place for a relaxing family trip. Taehak temple located in eastern valley is famous for its Buddhist sanctuary inside a natural cave and Samtae rock cliff buddha (national treasure no. 407), a typical Buddha statue style in the ancient Goryeo Dynasty.