You may now be the proud owner of a boat (see some budget-friendly options), or hitching a ride with a friend for a fantastic weekend out on the lake doing some water sports. But there rises a question; what lake?
The perfect lake for you has large part to do with the type of boat you have and how far you’re willing to travel. Different models require contained, relatively calm atmospheres, while (typically larger) boats can handle rougher water. Let’s take a look at the best five lakes Ohio has to offer, in no particular order. (Click on the header to visit the website)
Tappan Lake
- Harrison County
- 2,350 acres & 25 feet at deepest point
Tappan Marina seasonally offers boat and dock rentals, as well as fuel and supplies needed for a great day out on the lake. There are two public ramps and a third inside Tappan Lake Park, that has over 500 campsites. It does have a 399 horsepower limit, but it still allows for the speed required for cruising and water sports.
Salt Fork State Park
- Guernsey County
- 2,952 acres & 38 feet at deepest point
Salt Fork State Park is the largest in Ohio with 17,229 acres of recreational facilities and has two seasonal marinas (Sugartree and Salt Fork) with rental boats, 450+ rental docks, and other concessions. There is uniquely a lodge on the lake, with a swimming pool, trails, and more. Swimming on the lake itself is restrained to designated areas, but with unlimited horsepower and eight launch ramps, water sports are popular at Salt Fork.
Buckeye Lake State Park
- Fairfield, Licking, and Perry Counties
- 3,100 acres & 14 feet at deepest point
Buckeye Lake State Park is the oldest in Ohio, constructed as a canal feeder lake in 1826. There are nine launch ramps, two public swimming areas, four picnic areas, and winter recreation activities. Buckeye Lake Marina offers 135 seasonal docks for rent, as well as fuel and other items. It’s a popular vacation spot and a good location for water sports.
Lake Erie
- Northern border
- 6,342,400 acres & 210 feet at deepest point
Though the Great Lake Erie is not exactly in Ohio, it’s still worth mentioning. There are parks and 100+ public boat ramps along the Ohio coast line, with countless recreational activities found wherever is closest for you. With its size, it’s important to be prepared, especially with quick changes in weather. Erie is likely better for boaters that are a bit more experienced, but it is a great spot for a wide variety of water sports, fishing, sailing, and more.
Berlin Lake
- Stark, Portage, and Mahoning counties
- 3,590 acres & 55 feet at deepest point
Berlin Lake is mostly encompassed by the campgrounds of the Mill Creek Recreation Area, with 8,518 acres of wildlife area including the lake. Dutch Harbor Marina is a year round “one stop shop” for boaters. The lake is quite a popular one in Ohio and, with five launch ramps, it hosts water sports and fishing competitions regularly.
Some other honorable mentions are West Branch State Park (Portage county, 2,650-acres, West Branch Marina) and Lake Milton State Park (Mahoning county, 1,685 acres, Lake Milton State Park Marina).
The best lake for you is waiting; try them out for yourself! Be safe, have fun, and good luck with your boating adventures!
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