There’s something about summer that stokes the appetite for adventure — especially on the water. While paddling down a river is my personal summertime recreation of choice, the Lake Erie Islands of Northern Ohio open up a whole new world of wonder — possibility. Paddling, boating, swimming… the Buckeye State has over a dozen natural islands in Lake Erie’s Western Basin, but none capture the curiosity quite like Gibraltar Island. Remote and cloaked in mystery, here’s what awaits when you book a summertime tour of one of the most remote places in Ohio.

At just 6.5 acres in size, Gibraltar Island is by no means large; but what it lacks in stature it more than makes up for in mystery.
gibraltar island ohio
Ohio Sea Grant/Flickr
See it looming there, up ahead?
Hailed as the Gem of Lake Erie, Gibraltar Island gets its name for its resemblance to the famous British fortress.
gibraltar island ohio
James St. John/Flickr
One of the best islands of Ohio is no less captivating; the island was once a retreat for Sandusky native (and Civil War financier) Jay Cooke and his family.
In 1925, Cooke's daughter, Laura Barney, sold the island to Julius Stone, who later gave it to Ohio State University.
gibraltar island ohio
Ohio Sea Grant/Flickr
Today, the island is still owned by OSU; its Franz Theodore Stone Laboratory named after Julius Stone's father, who was a naturalist.
gibraltar island ohio
Ohio Sea Grant/Flickr

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Gibraltar Island is actually closed to the public for most of the year... but during the summer, science and history tours of Gibraltar Island are offered.
gibraltar island ohio
Stone Labratory/Facebook
Visitors can meet for the tours at the Boardwalk Restaurant dock 15 minutes before the start time. The water taxi to Gibraltar Island charges a fee of $8 per round-trip, payable to the boat driver in cash only.
These tours provide visitors with the rare opportunity to explore this remote and resplendent Ohio island, its glacial grooves and natural features as well as its historic homes and the iconic Cooke Castle.
gibraltar island ohio
Stone Labratory/Facebook
Don't forget the binoculars ... and sunscreen!
While naturally beautiful and teeming with history, there's something a bit foreboding and ominous about Gibraltar Island... a place quite literally isolated from the rest of the world.
gibraltar island ohio
Ohio Sea Grant/Flickr
This summer, don't miss your chance to explore Gibraltar Island - it's a place sure to get your imagination running wild... in all the best ways!
Jorge Penso/Flickr
And we suggest hanging around for the free sunsets.

Gibraltar Island tour information can be found on the Ohio Sea Grant College Program website. Did you know about this remote Ohio island? Have you already visited? Please share your experience in the comments below. Gibraltar Island is a real-life treasure that brings to mind Peter Pan and Neverland … and it’s just waiting to be explored!

While you’re there, visit Ohio’s largest butterfly house at Put-In-Bay. Reserve a pretty spot to stay and make it a vacation.

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More to Explore

Islands Of Ohio

Carolyn Harmon | July 09, 2024

Where are some other islands of Ohio?

  • Kelleys Island: You'll find this picturesque place in the western basin of Lake Erie about 12 miles from Sandusky. You can reach the island by a private boat, an airplane, or Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line in Marblehead on which you can also load your car. Once you arrive, you'll immediately enjoy that island feel with delicious restaurants, bars, and patio dining available.
  • Lake Erie Islands: Some of these magical places include Kelleys Island, Put-in-Bay, and North Bass Island. Each of these islands in Ohio offers its own attractions, such as the Lake Erie Island Nature & Wildlife Center and the Sunset Tour at Put-in-Bay. Enjoy the scenery the peaceful water provides in the Buckeye State. North Bass Island is a remote, mostly undeveloped island. Relax while breathing in the waterfront views.

What are some other remote places in Ohio to visit?

  • Wayne National Forest (Nelsonville): Sitting in southern Ohio, this sprawling property covers more than 160,000 acres. It only takes a day to drive to the beautiful area from Cincinnati, Columbus, Louisville, or Pittsburgh. Plan a camping trip from May through September. You are also welcome to swim at the swimming beach located at the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, where camping is welcome all year long.
  • Berlin RV Park & Campground (Berlin): Located in Amish country, this family-owned and operated business opened in 2011. Hike through the woods or sit back and enjoy the peaceful countryside. Some of the amenities include a shower room, picnic areas, volleyball and basketball courts, and places to play cornhole.

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Gibraltar Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43456, USA