Here in the Buckeye State, there's nothing like a day at your favorite lake, and luckily we're sharing several today in this list of best lakes in Ohio! Maybe you need some quiet fishing time. Maybe you'd like a simple beach day with the family. Whatever your need is for a day out on the lake, we understand. The following are 10 of our favorite lakes in Ohio. Chances are, at least one of these lakes is just an hour's drive time (or less) away from you. See how many you've been to before and which ones belong on your outdoor bucket list:
1. Rose Lake (Hocking County)
Just outside of one of Ohio's most beloved hiking spots (Old Man's Cave) is the Hocking Hills Reservoir, locally named Rose Lake. It is a truly serene spot that's perfect for a peaceful canoe or kayak adventure.
2. Mosquito Lake (Trumbull County)
This large reservoir in northeast Ohio is a great spot for some peaceful boating, fishing and family time. As one of the largest lakes in Ohio, it covers 7,000 acres. Camp at Mosquito Lake State Park or rent a yurt and make a weekend stay out of your visit.
3. Lake Erie (various counties)
Ohio's very own Great Lake serves as our own special sort of ocean here. There are several beaches along this beloved lake that are picture perfect when you need a beach day. Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor features one of Lake Erie's best beaches, as it's Ohio's longest natural sand beach.
4. Indian Lake (Lakeview)
At Indian Lake State Park, much of the the campground is nestled right along the water, giving you easy access to several water activities. It's a 5,000-acre manmade lake with two public beach areas designated for swimming, Old Field Beach and Fox Island Beach.
5. Portage Lakes (Summit County)
If fishing is one of your favorite spring and summer activities, then Portage Lake is your ideal lake. Largemouth bass abound within these six lakes, which cover 2,000 acres and stretch for more than six miles of shoreline.
6. William H. Harsha Lake (Clermont County)
Formerly known as East Fork Lake and the site of two abandoned gold mines, William H. Harsha Lake is well-known for its beautiful falls and Ordovician fossil beds. You'll find it on the East Fork of the Little Miami River in Clermont County.
7. Rocky Fork Lake (Hillsboro)
Within Rocky Fork State Park, you'll find a picturesque lake that makes a great summer day trip destination. There are two large public beaches alongside the lake, which covers a total of 2,080 acres. If you enjoy fishing, you'll find an abundance of bass, bluegill, crappie, saugeye, white bass and catfish at Rocky Fork Lake.
8. Silver Lake (New Paris)
Natural Springs Resort in New Paris, Ohio is a lesser-known gem that features a beautiful, spring-fed lake. The gorgeous spring-fed Silver Lake makes a fun swimming hole for visitors and campers alike. It's surrounded by beautiful rock formations that are remnants of the resort's quarry days.
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9. Tappan Lake (Uhrichsville)
Near a restored Indian village at Shoenbrunn State Park and the outdoor historical drama, "Trumpet in the Land," Tappan Lake serves as a popular camping destination. While you're here, be sure to check out the Moravian Trail Scenic Byway in addition to the usual camping activities available here such as boating, swimming and hiking.
10. Lake Hope (McArthur)
Within the 26,824-acre Zaleski State Forest in McArthur, you'll find the quiet, peaceful Lake Hope State Park and its little-known beach. The park is centered around this 120-acre lake, which you'll find on Big Sandy Run.
Have you been to any of these lakes before? What other bodies of water would you add to this list of best lakes in Ohio? Share your thoughts, photos, and experiences with us!
For more waterfront adventures and fun things to do in Ohio, check out our previous article: 8 Lazy Rivers In Ohio That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day.
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