Open
Buckeye Lake State Park is a day-use only facility with no overnight camping. The park is open year-round for day activities. Swimming beaches operate Memorial Day through Labor Day. Shelter houses may be reserved online.
About
Buckeye Lake State Park encompasses Ohio's oldest state park, built around a reservoir that was originally constructed in 1826 as a feeder lake for the Ohio and Erie Canal. The 3,100-acre lake is designated for unlimited horsepower boating, making it popular for water skiing, powerboats, and pontoons, though sailboats, canoes, and rowboats are also common.
The park provides excellent fishing opportunities with catches of largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, bullhead catfish, and perch. Anglers can access the water from multiple points including a fishing pier on Mud Island. Two public swimming beaches serve visitors: Fairfield Beach on the south shore and Crystal Beach on the north shore, both open from Memorial Day through Labor Day with parking and restroom facilities.
Four picnic areas with tables and grills offer scenic lake views, and three larger shelter houses are available for rental through ReserveOhio. Mini shelters are available first-come, first-served. Winter activities include ice fishing, ice skating, and ice boating when conditions permit. Note that Buckeye Lake State Park is a day-use only facility; campers should consider nearby Dillon State Park or Deer Creek State Park for overnight stays.
Directions
To reach Buckeye Lake State Park, take Highway 70 and exit onto State Route 37. Follow State Route 37 until you see signs for Buckeye Lake. Continue on Leibs Island Road to arrive at the park entrance.