Ohio is naturally magnificent. Our landscape is home to a number of incredible features, ranging from sandstone cliffs to deep emerald gorges. One of the features that we locals tend to take advantage of, however, is our multitude of natural lakes. There are a total of 110 natural lakes in the state that cover more than 5 acres. In fact, they cover a surface area of nearly 4,700 acres in total. Summit County, located just southeast of Cuyahoga County, includes the most natural lakes near Cleveland. This county is an absolute slice of paradise, especially if you are a lover of the great outdoors.
Ohio's lakes are absolutely stunning year-round, but Summit County has some of the loveliest in the entire state.
More than half a million people call this scenic landscape home, and they are truly fortunate. Its 419 square miles packed to the brim with natural splendor.
This gorgeous county is overflowing with natural beauty, the majority of which is contained within its 34 massive lakes.
Summit County includes countless lakes and ponds, but 34 of its naturally occurring waterways encompass more than five acres.
All in all, seven square miles of this county's surface area are covered by water.
The county contains just as many man-made lakes, it seems. At Silver Creek Metro Park, you will find a man-made lake that spans 50 acres.
Many of the lakes can be found within the Summit Metro Parks and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and each offers its own charms.
Munroe Falls Metro Park features yet another man-made lake, though this one is quite a bit smaller. At only 13 acres, this lake was built in 1937 to accommodate swimmers on hot summer days.
Many local lakes, like the one hiding in Furnace Run Metro Park, are fed by local streams.
Furnace Run Stream is one of the healthiest streams flowing into the Cuyahoga River. It also feeds the lake in Furnace Run Metro Park, which was actually once a popular swimming spot.
And many local lakes are teeming with wildlife.
Kendall Lake abounds with bluegill, bass, and channel catfish. The lake, through Salt Run tributary, actually feeds into the Cuyahoga River, as well.
No matter where you go in this gorgeous county, it seems that waterways are abundant and vibrant.
Driving through the hills of Summit County in the early morning is absolutely stunning for this weekend. In addition to the sun casting reflections off of crystalline water, you'll also encounter magical mist if conditions are right.
This gorgeous county is filled to the brim with man-made and natural lakes that are downright mesmerizing. If you are a nature lover in search of natural lakes near Cleveland, you can't go wrong with a trip through this scenic county. Which local lake (with the exception of Lake Erie) are you most charmed by? We'd love to hear your thoughts!
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