Ohio / Clark County / Buck Creek State Park

Cj Brown Dam And Reservoir - Dam Site

Open — Open year-round with three picnic shelters available for reservation. The lake officially closes at 11 p.m. daily.

About

CJ Brown Dam and Reservoir is located in west-central Ohio, two miles northeast of Springfield. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the site features three reservable picnic shelters equipped with grills, picnic tables, electric service, and water fountains. The Visitor Center houses exhibits on the Corps of Engineers, the history of the dam and lake, along with information about natural resources and recreation in the area. The 2,120-acre C.J. Brown Reservoir was created by damming Buck Creek and was designated an Ohio Important Bird Area in 2002. The Buck Creek valley was historically a patchwork of wetland fens, prairie meadows, oak savannas, and open oak woodlands. Today, the reservoir is surrounded by varied habitats ranging from brushy old fields to restored prairie to forest, supporting diverse wildlife including rare species found in the adjacent Prairie Road Fen communities. Recreational opportunities include fishing, hiking, biking, wildlife watching, and picnicking. Adjacent Buck Creek State Park offers additional amenities including a campground with 111 sites (89 with electric hookups), rental cottages, a marina, swimming beach, and trails. The reservoir officially closes at 11 p.m., and Ohio open container laws prohibit public alcohol consumption.

Directions

From I-70 westbound, exit at US 40 and go west to Bird Rd. Turn right (north) on Bird Rd. then left on Old Columbus Rd. Following signs for the CJ Brown Visitor Center, turn right onto Croft Rd., then right onto Overlook Drive into the park. From I-70 eastbound, exit at SR 4, follow 4 north through Springfield to Croft Rd. Turn right on Croft and left onto Overlook Dr.

Nearby Campgrounds