Michael J. Kirwan Damsite Recreation Area

Summary

The Michael J. Kirwan Dam Site Recreation Area is a scenic area located adjacent to the Visitor Center on Wayland Road where visitors can spend the day fishing, hiking, picnicking, and exploring the natural beauty and unique wildlife. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities and programs that explore the reservoir's natural, cultural, and historical significance. Additionally, West Branch State Park surrounds the reservoir with lush green farmland and is home to a variety of wildlife and fish.

Overview

The Michael J. Kirwan Dam Site Recreation Area provides an attractive setting where visitors can spend the day picnicking, fishing, hiking or enjoying nature's beauty. The Michael J. Kirwan Dam Site Recreation Area is located adjacent to the Visitor Center on Wayland Road. The area provides easy access to the causeway of the dam --a popular hiking, biking, and fishing destination-- and includes exercise equipment, a swing set, and gardens on site. 

 The shelter is reservable from May to September and is first-come-first-serve the remainder of the year. The shelter is located within walking distance of the dam and electric, tables, and grills are included. Reservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777

Recreation

Visitors to the park will find numerous, well maintained facilities available for fishing, hiking, picnicking, camping, boating, and other year-round outdoor activities. Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the rich history and fascinating features of the Visitor Center located on Wayland Road. A series of programs are offered highlighting the natural, cultural and historical significance of the reservoir and its surrounding area. You may also experience our unique wildlife platform, where you can see the flora and fauna of the area and maybe even catch a glimpse of wild turkeys. 

The reservoir and the majority of its surrounding lands are leased by the Corps of Engineers to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources as West Branch State Park.

Natural Features

Surrounded by the lush, green farmland of Northern Ohio, Michael J. Kirwan Dam & Reservoir provides miles of clean waters and scenic countryside for your enjoyment. The reservoir is located on the West Branch of the Mahoning River and covers over 3,000 acres. The shores of the reservoir boast shady hardwood forests where deer, turkey, and other wildlife are plentiful and the lake provides excellent opporunities for fishing. The numerous deep feeder channels and shallow shoreline provide habitat for a variety of fish species including walleye, muskie, striped bass, large and smallmouth bass, crappie, and bluegills.

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Nearby Attractions

There are 1.3 miles of hiking trails on Corps managed lands, including the Discovery Recreation Area Trail System located off Kestrel Way, and the Tailwaters Trail located on Wayland Road. The wildlife platform is located on the Discovery Trail. The Buckeye Trail loop now crosses the dam and encompasses the entire lake for more information on the Buckeye Trail, visit www.buckeyetrail.org. The ODNR maintains several other hiking, mountain bike and bridle trails as well as a horse camp area.