November Business of the Month: Marmon Valley Farms

​For more than six decades, Marmon Valley Farm – located at 7754 State Route 292 S., Zanesfield - has been serving up farm fresh fun in the heart of Logan County. What began as one family’s dream in 1964 has grown into Ohio’s largest Christian horse camp – welcoming thousands of visitors each year to experience faith, fellowship, and the beauty of farm life.

Marmon Valley Farm’s story begins with “Uncle” Bill and “Aunt” Phyllis Wiley, who shared a passion for faith-filled outdoor adventure. After working at Kirkmont and being inspired by the Smithers family of Rollicking Hills Farm Camp in DeGraff, the Wileys purchased a 75-acre farm that was for sale – and the rest is history.

The land itself holds an even deeper story. Long before the farm camp opened, the area was home to Wyandot and Shawnee tribes, including Chief Tarhe’s Wyandot village, which once stood where Zanesfield is today. Legendary frontiersman Simon Kenton also made his home in the valley. The Wileys chose the name Marmon Valley Farm in honor of the Marmon brothers, first settlers in 1805, two of whose homes remain on the property today. If you haven’t heard the story straight from Wrangler Matt himself, you’re going to want to put that on your Marmon Valley bucket list.
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From its humble beginnings, the camp has expanded to encompass 650 acres, now spread across what were once three neighboring farms. The Louden farm, first purchased in 1964, became the stable area and center of camp life. Over time, the Wileys added the Thompson farm in 1970, creating more riding trails, sleeping quarters, and a dining hall.

​In the early years, Marmon Valley Farm welcomed campers into the Wileys’ own home. Activities initially focused on farming, gardening, and small animal care, but the introduction of horses quickly became the centerpiece of the experience. By the mid-1970s, the camp’s mission took on a deeper focus, with Uncle Bill and Aunt Phyllis integrating the gospel of grace through Jesus Christ into all programs – a mission that continues to this day.

Today, visitors can enjoy trail rides, pony rides, hayrides, a petting zoo, riding lessons, birthday parties, field trips, retreats, and seasonal events throughout the year. From mother-daughter weekends to church group retreats and scout outings, Marmon Valley offers countless opportunities to unplug, connect, and make lifelong memories.
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Coming up this season, Marmon Valley Farm is excited to host two standout community events that perfectly capture its spirit of faith, fun, and family. On Saturday, November 8, the farm will welcome runners for the Horseshoe Hill Climb – featuring 5K, 10K, and 20K trail runs designed to raise money for summer horse camp scholarships. These scholarships make it possible for children from economically challenged families to attend camp and experience the joy of horses and the outdoors. The race course winds through 500 acres of Marmon Valley’s breathtaking landscape – hardwood forests, ravines, meadows, creeks, and scenic overlooks – offering runners a true backcountry adventure. It’s the perfect challenge for trail enthusiasts. For those who want to support the cause without hitting the trails – “Team Wrangler,” led by Wrangler Matt and his family, is welcoming sponsors for their run to help raise funds for the camp scholarships.

​In December, Marmon Valley Farm will once again come alive with the warmth and wonder of A Country Christmas, held December 6–7 and 13–15. This beloved annual tradition invites guests to climb aboard covered wagons for a live, outdoor nativity experience that brings the story of Christ’s birth to life through five dramatic scenes. Following the tour, families can enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, live music, and pony rides – creating a heartwarming holiday memory for all ages.

 Tickets and registration for both events are available at marmonvalley.com/events. With questions, you can learn more on their website or give them a call at (937) 593-8000.

The legacy of Bill and Phyllis Wiley continues under the faithful leadership of the Wiley family. Wrangler Matt Wiley serves as Director, while his wife Kathy leads the lesson program. Matt’s sister, Jane Olsen directs the Riding Stable alongside her husband Steve, who oversees operations. They are supported by a dedicated team that includes Rob Workman, Program Director; Gene Williams, Guest Groups Coordinator; Cheri Wiseman, Office Manager; and Darlene Boyer, Food Service Manager. In addition, approximately 40 committed staff members contribute their time and skills on weekends and in hourly roles, assisting with office work, trail guides, maintenance, kitchen service, and the gift shop. Together, this team proudly carries on Marmon Valley Farm’s long-standing tradition of faith, hospitality, and community.

​Over the years, Marmon Valley Farm has been recognized with numerous awards that reflect its excellence and commitment to faith, safety, and community. These honors include the 2004 Integrity in Business Award from the Logan County Chamber of Commerce, the 2020 Max Evans Tourism Award from the Logan County Visitors Bureau awarded to Matt Wiley, recognition as a former Logan County Farm Family of the Year, and the 2020 Partner in Safety Award from the Certified Horsemanship Association. Together, these accomplishments celebrate both the farm’s outstanding operations and its enduring dedication to serving guests with integrity and care.

As Marmon Valley celebrates 61 years of service, its mission remains steadfast:
Faith – proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ.
Farm – providing a wholesome environment to enjoy creation.
Fun – offering experiences that create lifelong memories.

Whether it’s a challenging trail run, a summer horse camp, or a magical Country Christmas, Marmon Valley Farm continues to make an impact – one camper, one family, and one visitor at a time.
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Please join us in congratulating Marmon Valley Farm on being the Logan County Chamber of Commerce November 2025 Business of the Month!