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Ohio
62

Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Central Ohio Region
Indian Lake State Park
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Indian Lake State Park Indian Lake State Park © Lonnie Williams
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Indian Lake State Park Indian Lake State Park © Lonnie Williams
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Indian Lake State Park Indian Lake State Park © Lonnie Williams
Lake View
Indian Lake State Park Indian Lake State Park © Lonnie Williams
Lake View
Indian Lake State Park Indian Lake State Park © Lonnie Williams
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Indian Lake State Park © Gene Shirk
Indian Lake State Park © Gene Shirk
Indian Lake State Park © Gene Shirk
Indian Lake State Park © Gene Shirk
Indian Lake State Park © Gene Shirk
Indian Lake State Park © Joseph Scott Cantrell
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INDIAN LAKE STATE PARK
INDIAN LAKE STATE PARK
12774 OH-235
Lakeview, Ohio   43331
(lat:40.5143 lon:-83.8988) map location

Phone: (937) 843-2717
Reservations: 866-644-6727
Indian Lake offers a diversity of water-related recreational opportunities. Boating, fishing, skiing and camping are highlights of this multi-use park.
Nature of the Area
The region of Indian Lake was originally a cluster of natural lakes situated on the Miami River. As the continental glaciers left Ohio, chunks of ice broke free, melted, and formed water-filled depressions called kettle lakes. The resultant shallow, marshy, natural lakes in this region covered an area of 640 acres. Among these were Old Indian Lake, Otter Lake, Blake Lake, Sheep Pen Lake and the Buck Wheat Patch.

The present and much larger lake lies along one of the country's major avian migration routes. Indian Lake is an important resting stop for birds such as Canada geese, ducks, grebes, swans, egrets and herons. Many stay over the summer to nest. Bald eagles once nested in the area but are no longer found here.
History of the Area
Early American history tells of the Indian tribes who lived and hunted in this region. Because of its close proximity to the Miami River, Indian Lake became part of the Indian trade route linking the Ohio River to Lake Erie. Generations of native Americans followed this route and occupied villages in the vicinity. By the early 1800s, white settlers made their way here and the history books record many accounts of skirmishes and battles resulting from the conflict between the Indians and new settlers. The famous frontiersmen Daniel Boone and Simon Kenton were known to have traveled here.

Despite Indian Lake's popularity as a year-round recreational area, the lake was not originally constructed with that purpose in mind. In the early 1800s, the primary means of commercial transportation was the canal system. Old Indian Lake was built in 1851 as a feeder lake for the Miami and Erie Canal to maintain the required four-foot water depth.

Following the passage of a resolution by the Ohio General Assembly in 1850 to use Indian Lake as a water supply for the canal, a bulkhead was built in Washington Township where the Great Miami River began and covered 1,000 acres. The work began in 1851 and was not completed until 1860. The total cost up to that time was $340,000. Irish laborers performed the work with picks, shovels and carts. Ironically, use of the canal system was declining as work on Indian Lake was completed. In 1893, Indian Lake or Lewistown Reservoir as it was then called, spanned 6,334 acres with 29 miles of shoreline. On April 9, 1898, the Ohio General Assembly dedicated the lake as a recreation area by the name of Indian Lake.

Indian Lake became a popular resort area at the turn of the century due to its central location on the old Toledo and Ohio Central Steamline and the Ohio Electric Railway. At one time, Indian Lake was known as the "Midwest's Million Dollar Playground." In 1949, the old Department of Conservation was abolished and Indian Lake became part of the newly-created Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Recreation.
Passes
Ohio does not have an annual pass and does not charge entrance fees to state parks.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
GeneralLand, acres800
 Water, acres5,800
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trail, miles7
 Picnickingyes
 Picnic Shelters, #5
 Swimming Beach, feet1,400
 Nature Centeryes
 Nature Programsyes
BoatingBoating LimitsUnlimited HP
 Seasonal Dock Rental530
 Launch Ramps, #5
CampingElectric Sites, #440
 Water/Electric Sites, #13
 Full Hookup Sites, #12
 Pets Permittedyes
 Flush Toiletsyes
 Dumpstationyes
 Showersyes
 Camp Commissaryyes
 Camper Cabins, #3
 Group Camp, capacity60
 Campground Beachyes
WinterCross-Country Skiingyes
 Snowmobilingyes
 Ice Boatingyes
 Ice Skatingyes
 Ice Fishingyes
Camping
There are 443 family campsites suitable for tents or trailers on the northwest section of the lakeshore. The scenic campground offers electric hookups for most sites, heated shower houses, flush toilets, laundry facility and camp commissary. A beach, boat ramp and boat docks are provided for exclusive camper use. A limited number of pet camping sites are available. The park's group camp area may be reserved by advanced registration. Twenty boat camping spaces are also available.

Two camper cabin units are available to rent. One unit sleeps six, and one sleeps four. Equipment provided includes a microwave oven, gas grill with propane tank, refrigerator, window air conditioner, ceiling fan with light, table and two chairs, and two futons. The units can be reserved by calling the park office at (937) 843-2717. A non-refundable deposit equaling the first night's fee is required at the time of reservation.
Swimming
Two public beaches, Old Field Beach and Fox Island Beach, invite swimmers to relax in the cool waters of Indian Lake. A beach for camper use is located near the campground. There are also four designated boat/swim areas.
Boating
The 5,800-acre lake offers unlimited horsepower boating and features four boat ramps and boat docks for rental. Skiing is popular in the open zone area. Indian Lake is the only inland lake in Ohio with lighted buoys for night navigation.
Fishing
Indian Lake State Park in Ohio offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers. The park's main attraction is the 5,800-acre Indian Lake which provides ample space to fish from boats or along its shores.

The lake is home to several species of game fish including saugeye, crappie, bass (both largemouth and smallmouth), bluegill, catfish (channel and flathead) as well as yellow perch. Saugeye are particularly popular among local fishermen due to their size - they can reach up to five pounds here.

In addition there are two designated areas on the north side where night fishing under lights attracts many visitors during summer months when temperatures drop after sunset making conditions more comfortable for this activity.

Fishing tournaments also take place throughout year at Indian Lake with events organized by various clubs such as Bassmaster Elite Series that attract professional competitors from across country who come test their skills against some best freshwater angling has offer.

For those without own equipment it's possible rent rods reels bait tackle shop located within state park itself while boat rentals available marina if you prefer get out water rather than casting line shore.

Furthermore ice-fishing becomes an option once winter sets in providing another dimension experience especially northern pike walleye become active beneath frozen surface seeking food amongst submerged vegetation beds around islands scattered throughout body water known locally 'Long Island Chain'.

Finally remember all persons aged 16 over must possess valid Ohio Fishing License before they start any form recreational sport whether be bank boating even through hole cut into thick layer hard white stuff covering vast expanse open waters during colder months season!


Location
Indian Lake State Park is located near Bellefontaine, Kenton and Lima
Nearby Parks

Picnicking
Picnickers may choose from a number of shaded areas equipped with tables and grills. Five shelters may be reserved by calling the park office.
Bicycling
Bicycling enthusiasts can enjoy a 3-mile paved trail, suitable for all skill levels. Be mindful of pedestrians.

The park's multi-use path accommodates cyclists and walkers alike. Always yield to slower traffic when biking.

For those seeking more adventure, nearby trails offer challenging terrain but require caution due to uneven surfaces.

Remember that helmets are recommended while cycling; safety should be your top priority on these paths.

Please note: off-road or mountain biking is not permitted within the park boundaries - stick to designated pathways only.

Nighttime bicycling isn't advised as there aren't any lighted bike routes in this area.

During peak seasons, it may get crowded so early morning rides might provide less congestion.

Always respect wildlife you encounter during your ride - keep distance and do not feed them.

Lastly, check weather conditions before heading out since some parts of the trail could become slippery after rainfalls.
Trails
The Cherokee Trail, a 3-mile easy walk through brushy habitat, is located west of the camp. The Pew Island Trail, a 1-mile path, encircles Pew Island. Access is available to Pew Island from a causeway. This trail affords a spectacular view of Indian Lake.

A paved bikeway is located on the West Bank between Old Field Beach and Lakeview Harbor. The bikeway is 3 miles long. Walkers and joggers are welcome to use the bikeway.
Birding
The park offers a variety of birding options, with over 200 species recorded. It is home to waterfowl such as ducks and geese during the migration season in spring and fall. Other common sightings include songbirds like warblers, sparrows, finches along woodland edges or open fields within the area. The lake itself attracts wading birds including herons and egrets while raptors like hawks can be spotted soaring overhead throughout the year.
Area Attractions
Located six miles east of Bellefontaine on S.R. 540, Zane Caverns feature illuminated two-level caves. The caves are known for the formation of "cave pearls." Ohio Caverns, three miles east of West Liberty on S.R. 245, is the largest of all Ohio caves. Exquisite crystal-white stalactite/stalagmite formations are found in great profusion and artistic settings. Both Zane Caverns and Ohio Caverns charge a small admission.

Mad River Mountain ski area is located five miles east of Bellefontaine on U.S. 33. Horse rentals are available at Marmon Valley Farms on U.S. 33.

The Piatt Castles, Mac-A-Cheek and Mac-O-Chee, are located near West Liberty on S.R. 245. Built by the Piatt family after the Civil War, the houses are noted for their architecture, furnishings and collection of Indian relics.

West of Indian Lake are Lake Loramie and Grand Lake St. Marys state parks. Both feature camping and water related recreation. Northeast of the park are Killdeer Plains and Big Island wildlife areas operated by the Division of Wildlife. Both areas offer hunting and bird watching opportunities. Gross Woods, a state nature preserve operated by the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, is one of the least disturbed woods in west-central Ohio.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
July 25 The only Campground for Us by Ruth
park review stars; one to five Great fishing , Camping , love this Campground. Big size Camp spots .
December 9 Eagles are back by Gilroydad
park review stars; one to five Bald Eagles have returned to Indian Lake for the first time since 1908. They have nested on Pony Island and can be seen by boat.
July 23 The Best Spot On Earth by eddie
park review stars; one to five If you would like great fishing and camping make sure you saty at Indian Lake.......
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Area Campgrounds
Sun Valley Family Campground
9779 Faulkner Road
Harrod, OH
419-648-2235
Glacier Hill Lakes RV Resort
11675 Wapak-Freyburg Road
Wapakoneta, OH
419-738-3005
Welcome Woods RV Campgrounds
7547 Ohio 366
Russells Point, OH
937-843-2465
Wapakoneta KOA Holiday
14719 Cemetery Road
Wapakoneta, OH
419-738-6016
Back 40 Campground
959 County Highway 111 East
Rushsylvania, OH
937-468-2267
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Lakeside Pro Bass Shop
11042 State St
Lakeview, OH
(937) 843-2488
Levan's Bait & Tackle
13679 State Route 235
Lakeview, OH
(937) 843-3358
Mike's Bait & Tackle
13708 State Route 235
Lakeview, OH
(937) 843-2261
Crawdaddy's Outdoor Store
State Rote 235 & U S
New Carlisle, OH
(937) 845-3239
Scotty's Party Dock & Bait Shop
State Rote 235 & U S
New Carlisle, OH
(937) 845-2248
Area Cabins and Lodges
Acheson's Resort and Realty
9050 Acheson Resort
Russells Point, OH
(937) 842-4530
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
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.
97.3 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
From Cleveland, Ohio: Take I-71 South to State Route 36, Exit West towards Delaware. Take State Route 36 to U.S. 33. Take U.S. 33 to the park.

From Columbus, Ohio:Take U.S. 33 from Columbus towards Marysville.The park is about 1hour and 15 minutes Northwest on U.S. 33.

From Cincinnati, Ohio: Take I-75 North to State Route 274. Take 274 East through Jackson Center to State Route 235. Turn left and take State Route 235 to the park.

From Toledo, Ohio:Take I-75 South to U.S. 33. Go East on U.S. 33 20 minutes to the lake area.

From Dayton, Ohio:Take I-75 North to State Route 274.Take 274 East to State Route 235. Turn left and take State Route 235 to the park.
Nearby Parks

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Ohio
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