Covering the southeastern portion of the state, Appalachian Ohio is a land characterized by caves and vistas, expansive forests and scenic waterways. With over 30 state parks and over 20 state forests, the area plays host to a range of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, hunting, fishing, boating, biking and camping. Golf enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the many courses in the area, which number in excess of 100. But Appalachian Ohio's excitement is not limited to recreation. The region's lack of a major city has not impeded the development of a robust arts scene, which is bolstered by several major attractions, such as Stuart's Opera House, Dairy Barn Arts Center and the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. Buffington Island pays homage to the only significant Civil War battle that took place in Ohio with a monument and interpretive signs. Another impressive historical attraction is Serpent Mound near Peebles, a quarter-mile-long serpent effigy that dates back hundreds of years.