Ohio / Delaware County

Delaware Lake Damsite Shelters

Open — Open year-round for day-use only. No overnight camping permitted. Shelters available first-come-first-served or by reservation.

About

Delaware Lake Damsite Shelters provides two distinct picnic shelter options at the Dam Site Recreation Area on Delaware Lake in central Ohio. Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, these facilities offer excellent day-use recreation opportunities near the lake's dam. Shady Ridge Shelter is nestled under elm trees atop a grassy ridge, providing privacy and separation from surrounding areas. Elm Grove Shelter is cradled between rows of trees and features a textured patio with pedestal tables and a group grill, located conveniently just 50 feet from the parking area. Both shelters provide water and electric hookups, access to restrooms, playgrounds, and a volleyball court. Open grassy spaces are ideal for field sports like soccer. The area offers excellent fishing opportunities on the river below the dam, and the adjacent 4,670-acre wildlife area managed by the Division of Wildlife features stocked fishing ponds. Delaware State Park is just over a mile away, offering additional activities from jet skiing to disc golf. A series of low-intensity hiking trails ranging from 0.25 to 1.6 miles traverse the area and connect with the lakeshore. The lake is surrounded by forests that provide habitat for groundhogs, pheasants, and white-tailed deer.

Directions

From Delaware, Ohio, head north on US 23 N for 5.4 miles (just beyond Railroad Underpass). Turn right at Delaware Lake Sign.

Nearby Campgrounds