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Ohio
52

Ohio State Parks

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USA Parks
Ohio
Northeast Ohio Region
Lake Milton State Park
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Lake Milton State Park Picnic Area © Dina Kinker
Part of the picnic area at Craig Beach.
Lake Milton State Park Shoreline along the nature trail © Dina Kinker
Lake Milton State Park Swimming © Dina Kinker
Craig Beach swimming area unguarded.
Lake Milton State Park © Dina Kinker
Lake Milton State Park Bridge © Dina Kinker
Part of the nature trail
Lake Milton State Park © Dina Kinker
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LAKE MILTON STATE PARK
LAKE MILTON STATE PARK
16801 Mahoning Ave
Lake Milton, Ohio   44429
(lat:41.0949 lon:-80.9711) map location

Phone: (330) 654-4989
Lake Milton's reservoir offers the best in water-related recreation. Boating, swimming and fishing are popular. The scenic shoreline provides a habitat for waterfowls and shorebirds for visitors to enjoy.
Nature of the Area
Lake Milton State Park lies in the portion of the Appalachian Plateau in Ohio that was overridden by glaciers some 12,000 years ago. This glaciated plateau contains a great variety of plants, animals and natural habitats. The plateau's rolling hills are interspersed with forests, bogs, old fields, streams and lakes.

The plateau is a major meeting ground of plants and forest types from the southern Appalachians and northern Allegheny regions. For instance, it is possible to see substantial stands of white oak and hickory which are typical of the southern Appalachians as well as northern hemlock forests which are more common in the northern Allegheny region. This tension zone accounts for the great diversity of plants in the area. Star flower, spring beauties, mountain maple, anemones and wood aster grace the floor of beech-maple woodlots.

Animals suited to this area include cottontail rabbit, red fox, raccoon, muskrat and woodchuck. Bird life is diverse with robins, warblers, pine siskins, hawks and owls being commonly seen. Reptiles found here include the midland painted turtle and the northern watersnake.
History of the Area
Before settlement of Ohio, dense forests covered much of the region. The forests were inhabited by Indians and wild animals including wolf, elk, bear and mountain lion. Indian trails and rivers provided access to the area. When settlers started moving west, they traveled the same routes as the Indians. Historic records recall only a few incidents between settlers and the Indians.

John and Mary Young traveled to this area from New York and in 1797 platted a town on the bank of the Mahoning River. In 1803, the Youngs left the area due to homesickness, but the town (Youngstown) still bears their name. Shortly after the Young's departure, iron, coal and limestone were discovered in the nearby hills. In 1826, the first coal mine opened in the valley. After Lake Superior's extensive iron ore deposits were discovered, the Mahoning Valley steel industry grew at a rapid rate. Union Iron and Steel Company, the first Mahoning steel plant, opened in 1892. Additional mills and fabricating plants drew immigrants of all nationalities to the valley.

In 1910, the city of Youngstown acquired 3,416 acres in Milton Township to construct a reservoir to be used as a water supply. A 2,800-foot dam was completed in 1913 impounding 1,640 acres on the Mahoning River. Lake Milton included a small amusement park at Craig Beach with a swimming beach, roller coaster, boat trips and a busy midway. The east side of the lake included taverns, a dance hall and a skating rink.

During the 1970s, mounting problems with the Lake Milton dam demanded attention. Considering safety factors, the gates were opened in the spring of 1986 and the lake was drained. State assistance was sought and shortly thereafter repairs to the dam began. Within two years, the dam was ready to hold water again.

Lake Milton was officially dedicated as a state park in 1988.
Passes
Ohio does not have an annual pass and does not charge entrance fees to state parks.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
GeneralLand, acres1,006
 Water, acres1,685
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trail, miles1
 Picnickingyes
 Picnic Shelters, #4
 Swimming Beach, feet600
 Nature Programsyes
BoatingBoating LimitsUnlimited HP
 Seasonal Dock Rental100
 Launch Ramps, #3
 Fuel For Saleyes
WinterCross-Country Skiingyes
 Snowmobilingyes
 Ice Fishingyes
Swimming
A new 600-foot beach has restrooms, change booths, showers, playground, basketball court and sand volleyball court.
Boating
Boating is popular at the lake which is designated for unlimited horsepower. Boaters have access to a section of the Mahoning River at the south end of the lake. Two launch ramps and seasonal dock rentals are available. Lake Milton Scenic Cruises offer cruises around the lake during the summer months.
Fishing
Lake Milton State Park in Ohio offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers. The lake is home to several species of fish, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, walleye and channel catfish.

The 1,685-acre reservoir provides ample space for boat-based angling with three launch ramps available around the park. Boat rentals are also offered at certain times throughout the year if you don't have your own vessel.

For those who prefer shore fishing or do not have access to a boat can take advantage of multiple shoreline spots that offer good casting locations as well as docks which extend into deeper water where larger fish often lurk.

In addition to traditional rod-and-reel methods popular among many fishermen visiting Lake Milton State Park; bowfishing is permitted here too - an exciting alternative method especially effective on carp populations present within these waters.

Ice-fishing during winter months when conditions allow it adds another dimension altogether providing unique challenges but potentially rewarding catches such as yellow perch known thrive under ice cover due their cold-water preference

Families looking introduce young children world sport will find plenty pan-sized sunfish near banks easy targets even smallest hands hold onto tight lines while learning basics this timeless outdoor activity


Location
Lake Milton State Park is located near Alliance, Canfield and Columbiana

Picnicking
Picnicking is popular, and the four shelterhouses offer protection from the summer sun and inclement weather. The shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Trails
1. Mahoning Valley Trail: A 4-mile long trail that winds through dense forests, offering glimpses of the lake and wildlife sightings such as deer, squirrels, and various bird species.

2. Lake Milton Loop: This moderate difficulty loop offers stunning views over Lake Milton with several vantage points for photography enthusiasts or those seeking a moment's peace by the water's edge.

3. Oak Tree Passage: An easy hike perfect for families; this path meanders under towering oak trees providing shade on hot summer days while showcasing an array of colorful wildflowers in springtime.

4. Wildlife Watcher Pathway: Known to be frequented by local fauna including foxes, raccoons and even occasional bald eagles soaring overhead - ideal for nature lovers who enjoy observing animals in their natural habitat.

5. Sunset Ridge Hike Route: As its name suggests it provides breathtaking sunset vistas across the expansive waterscape making it popular among romantic couples or solitude seekers alike.

6. Boulder Creek Crossing: Challenging yet rewarding route featuring rocky terrains leading up to a serene creek crossing where hikers can rest amidst soothing sounds of flowing water before continuing their journey uphill towards panoramic viewpoints overlooking entire park area.

7. Whispering Pines Track: Tranquil pathway winding around pine groves emitting fresh earthy scent, often blanketed with fallen needles creating soft carpet-like surface beneath your feet.

8. Fern Gully Walkway: Lush ferns line both sides along this narrow walkway giving impression you're walking within green tunnel ; during rainy season small streams form alongside adding extra charm & sense adventure into mix.

9. Lakeside Stroll Promenade: Perfect leisurely stroll option right next lakeshore dotted numerous picnic spots equipped benches tables allowing visitors relax soak scenic beauty surrounding them at own pace without any strenuous hiking involved.

10. Crystal Cove Climb: For more adventurous souls looking challenge, this steep climb leads secluded cove offering crystal clear views lake's azure waters below.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore a 1.25-mile paved trail, ideal for family rides and leisurely cycling.

Mountain bikers should be cautious of the rugged terrain on some trails.

The park's multi-use paths also accommodate cyclists but watch out for pedestrians.

Remember to wear helmets and follow safety guidelines while biking in this location.

Night-time bicycling is not recommended due to limited visibility conditions.

Check weather forecasts before planning your bike ride as certain trails may become slippery when wet.
Birding
Birdwatchers have a variety of options in this Ohio location. The park is home to diverse bird species, making it an ideal spot for birding activities throughout the year. It features several habitats including woodlands and wetlands that attract different types of birds such as waterfowl, songbirds, raptors among others. There are also designated trails where visitors can enjoy peaceful walks while observing these creatures in their natural environment.
Area Attractions
Nearby state parks include West Branch (Ravenna), Nelson-Kennedy Ledges (Garrettsville) and Quail Hollow (Hartville). West Branch offers camping facilities while Nelson and Quail Hollow are both day-use areas.

Youngstown's attractions include the Arms Museum which highlights local history; Butler Institute of American Art, one of the country's first museums of art; and Mill Creek Park which offers trails, lakes, formal gardens and a restored mill.

Kyle Woods in Mahoning County is a state nature preserve with an 80-acre beech-maple woodlot with unique woody species. Visitation is during daylight hours only.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
January 24 Lake Milton Nature & Arts Amphitheater
park review stars; one to five Lake Milton State Park completed its new Amphitheater in 2008. The annual beach party is Saturday August 1, 2009. For a full list of events go to www.LakeMiltonInfo.com
July 15 Nice free beach by Mike & Shirley Headlee
park review stars; one to five We found this park to be a nice place to spend the day and cookout.
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Area Campgrounds
Green Acres Lake Park
15487 Creed Road
Lake Milton, OH
330-538-2194
Philabaun's Hidden Cove Resort
1115 Edgewater Boulevard
Deerfield, OH
330-584-3695
Ridge Ranch Campground
5219 Ohio 303
Newton Falls, OH
330-898-8080
Chaparral Family Campground
10136 West Middletown Road
Salem, OH
330-337-9381
Country Acres Campground & Fun Park
9850 Minyoung Road
Ravenna, OH
330-358-2774
Friendship Acres Campground
2210 Ohio 44
Randolph, OH
330-325-9527
McDermott's Lakefront Campground
8999 German Church Road
North Benton, OH
216-396-1500
Area Fishing Related Businesses
West Branch Marina
8109 Cable Line Rd
Ravenna, OH
(330) 296-9209
Buckeye Worm Farm
800 State Route 534 NW
Newton Falls, OH
(330) 898-8073
North Coast Bait & Tackle
16963 Mahoning Ave
Lake Milton, OH
(330) 654-2516
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
16801 Mahoning Avenue, Lake Milton, Ohio 44429-9998

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Ohio
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Ohio State Parks

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