Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area

About

Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area is the premier developed recreation site in Wayne National Forest, named for the historic Vesuvius iron furnace located at the base of the dam. The 143-acre lake was created in 1939 when the Civilian Conservation Corps dammed Storms Creek. The recreation area spans 1,200 acres of rugged hills and rock outcroppings in southeastern Ohio's Lawrence County. Two developed family campgrounds serve visitors: Iron Ridge with 34 sites and Oak Hill with 32 sites, organized across multiple loops including White Oak, Post Oak, Pine Knob, and Scarlet Oak. Both campgrounds offer standard and electric sites with 30/20 amp hookups, water hookups at select sites, flush and vault toilets, and shower facilities. A group campground accommodates up to 50 people. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring with grill. The area boasts more than 25 miles of hiking trails and 46 miles of horseback riding trails. An accessible 1/3-mile boardwalk provides a leisurely walk along the lake's southwest edge. The Longbow Archery Trail offers 25 field targets for shooting practice. Fishing opportunities include bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill, though only electric motor boats are permitted on the lake.

Directions

From US Highway 52 at Ironton, take State Route 93 north for approximately 6.5 miles to Lake Vesuvius Road (County Road 29). Turn east and travel 1 mile to the recreation area.