Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Ohio
223

Ohio State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Ohio
Northeast Ohio Region
Jefferson Lake State Park
Cardinal © stateparks.com
Cardinal
Spring Hike © stateparks.com
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
JEFFERSON LAKE STATE PARK
JEFFERSON LAKE STATE PARK
501 Township Rd 261A
Richmond, Ohio   43944-7811
(lat:40.4696 lon:-80.8084) map location

Phone: (740) 765-4459
Reservations: 866-644-6727
The sandstone hills of Jefferson County are part of the Appalachian Highlands which envelop the southeastern part of Ohio. In the sandstone bedrock can be found layers of coal which were formed by decaying swamp vegetation millions of years ago during the Pennsylvanian geologic period.
Nature of the Area
The sandstone hills of Jefferson County are part of the Appalachian Highlands which envelop the southeastern part of Ohio. In the sandstone bedrock can be found layers of coal which were formed by decaying swamp vegetation millions of years ago during the Pennsylvanian geologic period.

Covering the hills and valleys of the area is a second growth oak and hickory forest. Growing side-by-side with towering white oaks and shagbark hickories are stately beeches and maples, tulip trees, walnuts, elms and ashes. The forest is composed of much more than trees, although they constitute its most conspicuous feature. The observant visitor may find a wealth of wildflowers such as wild geranium, hepatica and bloodroot. The leafy canopy rings with a harmonious chorus of bird songs. Wild turkey and ruffed grouse are dispersed in these hills and forests as well. These are just a few of the natural wonders found at Jefferson Lake.
History of the Area
The Jefferson Lake region was once the home of Logan, the celebrated Mingo chief whose family was massacred near here on the Ohio River at the mouth of Yellow creek. This incident spurred Lord Dunmore's War in 1774.

In more recent times, the area has been home to the steel industry in Ohio. The underlying coal fields and Ohio River access have made it a focal point of this industry.

Jefferson Lake State Park was developed on 962 acres in the valley of the Town Fork of Yellow Creek. Land acquisition began in 1928. The lake and other facilities were constructed by the National Park Service in cooperation with the old Ohio Division of Conservation as a project of the Civilian Conservation Corps during the depression. The dam was constructed in 1934 and the 17-acre lake was filled in 1946. In 1950, the area was turned over to the newly created 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, acres945
 Water, acres17
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trail, miles18
 Picnickingyes
 Picnic Shelters, #3
 Swimming Beach, feet200
 Mountain Bike Trails, miles20
 Bridle Trails, miles18
 Nature Centeryes
 Nature Programsyes
BoatingBoating Limits-1
 Launch Ramps, #1
CampingPrimitive, #61
 Pets Permittedyes
 Dumpstationyes
 Showersyes
 Rent-A-Camp Sites, #1
 Horsemen Campsites, #35
WinterCross-Country Skiingyes
 Ice Skatingyes
 Ice Fishingyes
Camping
There is a family camping area suitable for tents and trailers offering 97 non-electric sites. Latrines water fountains, picnic tables and fire rings are provided. Rent-A-Camp sites equipped with a tent, covered picnic table, cookstove and other gear are available on a reservation basis. Campers with pets are permitted on designated sites.
Swimming
A nice public beach offers recreation for swimmers and sunbathers. Facilities include a bathhouse, showers and toilets.
Boating
Non-motorized boats and boats with electric motors up to four horsepower are permitted on Jefferson Lake.
Fishing
Jefferson Lake State Park in Ohio offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers. The park's main attraction is the 17-acre Jefferson Lake, which is stocked with several species of fish including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish and trout.

The lake provides an ideal environment for these species to thrive due to its depth and abundant aquatic vegetation. Anglers can enjoy shore fishing from various points around the lake or they may choose to use one of the available boat rentals at the marina.

In addition to Jefferson Lake itself, there are also numerous streams throughout the state park that offer excellent spots for fly-fishing enthusiasts. These waterways contain smallmouth bass as well as other types such as rainbow trout.

Fishing regulations set by Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) apply within this state park; therefore it's important that all fishermen have valid licenses before casting their lines into any body of water here.

For those who want more than just day trip experience - camping facilities are provided so visitors can stay overnight allowing them plenty time explore what else area has offer besides great angling options!


Location
Jefferson Lake State Park is located near Carrollton, East Liverpool and Steubenville

Picnicking
Many picnic tables are located in scenic spots around the lake. Two shelterhouses are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Trails
Nearly 15 miles of scenic, sometimes rugged, hiking and bridle trails meander through the park challenging visitors during any season.
Bicycling
While exploring the park, be aware that biking is limited to roadways and parking areas. Off-road cycling isn't permitted.

The terrain can be hilly with sharp turns; cyclists should exercise caution when riding in these conditions.

There are no designated bike trails within this state park's boundaries which may limit some riders' experiences.

Cyclists must adhere strictly to traffic laws for safety reasons as they share roads with motor vehicles inside the park area.

Ensure you wear a helmet at all times while bicycling due to potential risks on shared pathways or sudden weather changes.

Remember, night-time biking requires proper lighting equipment for visibility purposes - it's not just recommended but mandatory by law here.

Keep an eye out for wildlife crossing paths unexpectedly - always maintain control of your bicycle speed accordingly.
Area Attractions
Fernwood State Forest is located southeast of Bloomingdale near State Route 151. The forest offers camping facilities, hiking and bridle trails and a trap shoot area. Yellow Creek State Forest is north near Wellsville.

The McCook House State Memorial is located in the town square of Carrollton. This federal-style brick house was built in 1837. It was the home of the "Fighting McCooks," a family that contributed 13 men to the Union Army in the Civil War. The house is open June through September.

The Morgan Raiders marker, 12 miles east of Carrollton on State Route 39, designates the northernmost battle of the Civil War. This battle was fought on July 26, 1863.

The Petersburg Algonquin Steam Flouring Mill on State Route 332 four miles south of Carrollton, is a designated National Historical Site. It is believed to be the only steam-operated mill in Ohio.

New Rumley, the birthplace of General George Armstrong Custer, is the site of a handsome exhibit detailing his life and battles.

Three Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District Lakes offer recreation opportunities. Atwood Lake is on S.R. 542 near Dellroy, Leesville is near Carrollton and Tappan on U.S. 250.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
August 7 Camping,swimming by Joe_B
park review stars; one to five Had the worse time ever...was not told the shower house is closed and that you can not swim at the beach because of the Lilly pads and seaweed..my kids was very upset..and on top of that I was told we could not hook up th the water to fill our tank on the camper...worse time ever...very disappointed
August 1 Great Camping by Maggie
park review stars; one to five Whether you use a tent or an RV, this is the best camping ever. There are five electric sites, but all the sites are big and beautiful. We prefer the non-electric. There are groves of trees and natural shade to keep cool on a hot day.
May 31 My favorite park by jerry rydarowicz
park review stars; one to five Very peaceful and quiet. also clean.
write a review read more reviews
Share On

Area Campgrounds
A1 Twinvalley Campground
2330 Apollo Road Southeast
Carrollton, OH
330-739-2811
Austin RV Park and Cabins
1002 Township Road 285A
Toronto, OH
740-544-5253
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
501 TWSP RD 261A, Richmond, Ohio 43944-9710

state route ranger badge
Ohio
223

Ohio State Parks

X