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Ohio
52

Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Southeast Ohio Region
Burr Oak State Park
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Burr Oak State Park Burr Oak State Park © Lonnie Williams
Lake View
Burr Oak State Park Burr Oak State Park © Lonnie Williams
Lake View
Burr Oak State Park Burr Oak State Park © Lonnie Williams
Entrance Sign
Burr Oak State Park Burr Oak State Park © Lonnie Williams
Lake View
Burr Oak State Park Burr Oak State Park © Lonnie Williams
Scenic View From Nature Center
Burr Oak State Park Burr Oak State Park © Lonnie Williams
Nature Center Bobcat Display
Burr Oak State Park © Victor F Artigas
Burr Oak State Park View of beach from tent area © Victor F Artigas
Burr Oak State Park © Gene Shirk
Burr Oak State Park © Gene Shirk
Burr Oak State Park © Gene Shirk
Burr Oak State Park © Gene Shirk
Burr Oak State Park © Victor F Artigas
Burr Oak State Park © Gene Shirk
Burr Oak State Park © R. Kelley Marchal
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BURR OAK STATE PARK
BURR OAK STATE PARK
10220 Burr Oak Lodge Rd
Glouster, Ohio   45732
(lat:39.5415 lon:-82.0295) map location

Phone: (740) 767-3570
Reservations: 866-644-6727
Located in southeast Ohio, quiet and remote Burr Oak State Park has a rustic country charm in its scenery of wooded hills and valley farms. As one of Ohio's resort parks, Burr Oak offers a wide array of overnight accommodations with its lodge, cottages and campground. Burr Oak blends modern conveniences with the wilderness spirit of Ohio.
Nature of the Area
Burr Oak State Park epitomizes the wilderness character of southeast Ohio. Miles of forested ridges and hollows comprise these foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The woodlands support a variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, box turtles and the elusive wild turkey. The lake's shore is inhabited by the industrious beaver and various waterfowl species.

The forest is comprised of numerous hardwoods but is dominated by stately oaks and hickories. In autumn, the forest displays spectacular fall colors as leaves turn to deep reds, brilliant yellows and burnt oranges. Woodland wildflowers are equally as impressive in the spring when violets, Dutchman's breeches, trillium, rare orchids, bloodroot and hepatica are in bloom.
History of the Area
Situated in the valley of Sunday Creek, the Burr Oak area was inhabited by Indians and, later, by settlers who found an abundance of game animals and the resources necessary for survival in the Ohio wilderness.

Coal, one of Ohio's most important mineral resources, was mined here for many years. As mining operations expanded, mining towns grew and prospered. Few of these mining towns were as notorious as the village of Santoy.

Many colorful tales were told of life in Santoy. In the true spirit of frontier life, so the story goes, a gunfight was once held over a $20 debt. The street was cleared as the two participants met for a showdown. The ensuing battle left both men lying in the street--one dead and the other critically wounded. The "Old West" came to life in Ohio when the coal company payroll was robbed by andits who made a horse-mounted getaway through the town.

Countless other tales live on, but Santoy could not. A fire in 1924 destroyed the coal tipple and several businesses. The loss was so devastating that just three years later the second mine shaft shut down. In November 1931, the nineteen remaining voters decided to abandon the town. Today, only the church, the town's first building, still stands as a reminder of days gone by.

In 1950 Burr Oak Lake was created by the construction of the Tom Jenkins Dam across the east branch of Sunday Creek. Two years later, Burr Oak was dedicated as a state park.
Passes
Ohio does not have an annual pass and does not charge entrance fees to state parks.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
GeneralLand, acres2,593
 Water, acres664
 Nearby Wildlife Areayes
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trail, miles10
 Backpack Trail, miles18
 Picnickingyes
 Picnic Shelters, #1
 Swimming Beach, feet500
 Beach Concessionyes
 Nature Centeryes
 Nature Programsyes
BoatingBoat Rentalyes
 Boating Limits10
 Seasonal Dock Rental553
 Launch Ramps, #5
 Fuel For Saleyes
CampingPrimitive, #78
 Electric Sites, #16
 Pets Permittedyes
 Flush Toiletsyes
 Dumpstationyes
 Showersyes
 Rent-A-Camp Sites, #3
 Camper Cabins, #2
 Youth Group Camp, capacity500
WinterSleddingyes
 Ice Skatingyes
 Ice Fishingyes
AccommodationsLodge Rooms, #60
 Family Cottages, #30
 Indoor Swimming Poolyes
 Tennisyes
 Golf Courseyes
 Restaurantyes
Cottages
There are thirty family cottages situated near the lodge in the wooded hills overlooking the lake. Each cottage sleeps six people, has a bath with a shower, living room, complete kitchen, dining area and screened porch. Linens, towels and cooking and eating utensils are furnished.
Camping
There are 90 non-electric campsites to accommodate campers. The campground offers showers, flush toilets and a dump station. Fifteen primitive sites are offered at Dock #2 and eight primitive sites at Dock #3. Three Rent-A-Camp units consisting of a tent, dining fly, cooler, cook stove and other equipment can be rented during the summer months by reservation. Pet camping is permitted on designated sites.
Lodge
Burr Oak Lodge, overlooking the lake from the east, offers sixty guest rooms, five meeting rooms, a dining room, full-service lounge and gift shop. Facilities for lodge and cottage guests include a swimming beach, tennis courts, playground equipment, boat launch ramp and an indoor swimming pool.
Swimming
A public swimming beach offers enjoyment for swimmers and sunbathers. A bathhouse, showers, changing booths and a snack bar are provided. An indoor pool is available for lodge and cottage guests only.
Boating
A ten horsepower limit for boats is in effect on Burr Oak Lake. Five launch ramps provide access to the lake. Boat rentals, fuel and seasonal dock rentals are offered.
Fishing
Burr Oak State Park in Ohio offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both experienced and novice anglers. The park's main attraction is the Burr Oak Lake, which spans over 664 acres and has an average depth of about 15 feet.

The lake is home to several species of fish including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish and saugeye. Largemouth Bass are particularly popular among fishermen due to their size and fighting spirit. Bluegills can be found near the shoreline or around submerged structures like fallen trees or rocks.

Crappies tend to congregate in deeper waters during summer months but move closer towards shorelines as temperatures drop during springtime spawning season. Catfish are abundant throughout the year with channel cats being most common while flathead catfish provide more challenge due its larger sizes.

Saugeyes (a hybrid between walleye & sauger) were introduced into this water body by state fisheries department aiming at providing additional sportfishing opportunity; they have since established self-sustaining population making them another favorite target for local anglers.

Fishing from boats is allowed on Burr Oak Lake with boat ramps available at Dock #1 off Route 78 West Side Recreation Area & Dock #2 located within campground area respectively offering easy access onto water surface regardless whether you're using motorized vessel or paddling canoe/kayak etcetera...

In addition there's also bank fishing spots scattered along lakeshore where one could cast line directly without needing any kind floating device whatsoever - these include areas such as beachfronts next picnic shelters plus various points jutting out into coves/bays amongst others...

Please note that all individuals aged sixteen years old upwards must possess valid Ohio Fishing License before engaging angling activities here according rules set forth by Division Wildlife under Department Natural Resources' jurisdiction so make sure check up-to-date regulations prior heading out trip ensure compliance thus avoiding potential fines/penalties.



Picnicking
Picnic areas are located in scenic areas of the park and offer tables and grills.
Trails
Twenty-eight miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the state's Buckeye Trail, take hikers to scenic vistas and unique rock outcroppings. Backpackers will find the Burr Oak Backpack Trail challenging and enjoyable. This eighteen-mile loop trail winds around the lake shore and offers primitive campsites and drinking water at several locations along the route.
Bicycling
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy over 25 miles of trails, though some are quite challenging due to steep terrain.

The park offers a variety of paths for different skill levels but caution is advised.

Mountain bikers should be aware that the rugged landscape may require advanced skills and endurance.

While cycling, it's important to stay alert as wildlife sightings are common in this area.

Please note: helmets and safety gear are strongly recommended when biking on these trails.

For those seeking less strenuous options, there's an easy bike route around Dock #2 with beautiful lake views.

Remember always respect trail rules; they're designed not only for your safety but also preservation of natural resources.
Birding
Burr Oak State Park in Ohio offers a variety of birding options for enthusiasts. The park is home to numerous species, including warblers, woodpeckers, hawks and waterfowl among others. Birdwatchers can explore the diverse habitats within the park such as forests, meadows and wetlands which attract different types of birds. There are also several trails that provide excellent opportunities for spotting these creatures in their natural environment.
Area Attractions
A portion of Wayne National Forest borders the park near the dam. The U.S. Forest Service operates a 19-unit family camp at Burr Oak Cove, off S.R. 13. Wildcat Hollow Backpack Trail, located on Morgan County Road 58, is also operated by the U.S. Forest Service and can be accessed by the park's backpack trail to extend the route.

Sunday Creek Wildlife Area, consisting of fifteen separate areas, borders the park as well. Two other state wildlife areas are located nearby--Trimble, six miles west and Wolf Creek, six miles east. Strouds Run State Park, on U.S. 50 east of Athens, provides facilities for fishing, camping, picnicking, hiking and boating.

State Route 78 between Glouster and McConnelsville earns its nickname "Rim of the World" as one of the most scenic drives in the state.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
October 11 We love Burr Oak! by Kathy and Chris
park review stars; one to five My husband and I have some wonderful memories of staying at Burr Oak, especially this past August, when we traveled by motorcycle from Florida to our native Ohio. The roads around Burr Oak are fantastic, especially 555 or as we call it, triple nickel, and Rt. 78. Burr Oak Lodge is a great place to stay and relax, after riding all day! We especially love the gazebo and the view of the lake at sunset, the view of the lake from the restaurant, and the beautiful pool.
October 19 Beautiful park by cathy
park review stars; one to five We just had a beautiful wedding there. I would highly recommend this park. The entire staff was very helpful and accommodating with everything we needed. Thank-you!
September 2 burr oaks by vivian
park review stars; one to five place was beautiful and staff was very friendly and helpful,was there in the middle of july and will be going back in the middle of september for more fun and relaxation.wonderful place to stay and relax..
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Area Cabins and Lodges
Burr Oak Resort
Glouster, OH
(740) 767-2112
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
businesss listing main photo
Hidden Cave Cabin - Rockbridge, OH
Cottages and Cabins
Hidden Cave Cabin is an authentic log cabin with 2 bedrooms in a private wooded setting. It is located on one of the most scenic drives in Hocking Hills and just 3.6 miles to Rock House and less than 10 miles to Conkle's Hollow and Old Man's Cave.
30 miles from park*
businesss listing main photo
Cottages and Cabins
Trickle Creek offers luxury cabins in Hocking Hills. The cabins are situated on nearly 236 acres of secluded cabin rentals in the deep wooded ravines in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Hocking County, Ohio.
26.4 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Use Mapquest and the following address to create a custom set of directions from your location to the Park:

10220 Burr Oak, Lodge Road, Glouster, OH 45732

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Ohio
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Ohio State Parks

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