Indian Lake State Park

Nestled on the shores of the lake in which it is named after, Indian Lake State Park is a fabulous place to get your fix of nature.

Located just over an hour’s drive from Dayton and Columbus, it comprises more than 5,100 acres of stunning oak woodlands, pristine sandy beaches, lush rolling fields and verdant marshes.

Centered around the 800-acres of its sparkling lake, this Ohio state park offers plenty of opportunities for boating, swimming and fishing. Other activities like hiking, biking, birding, wildlife watching and picnicking are also very popular too.

In the morning and early evening, professional and amateur photographers alike come here for the chance to snap the magnificent sunrise and sunsets that illuminate the park. While visitors have around 450 options for overnight camping accommodation.

These include sites that offer full hookups and even boat camping options that are right on the surface of the water!

Activities

Visitors can enjoy a plethora of outdoor recreational activities during their time at Indian Lake State Park.

Outlined below is a small selection of some of the many things you can see and do while you are there.

Water activities at Indian Lake State Park

The park is a haven for those who enjoy water based recreational activities like boating, canoeing, kayaking, SUP and jet skiing. At any given time there are plenty of people partaking in this pastime.

For those who want to swim while at the park, there are two public beaches – Old Field Beach and Fox Island Beach – where they can do this. If you do take to the water you will have to exercise caution as no lifeguards are present.

However, the opportunity to have a cooling dip when the mercury hits the 90s in the summer heat is one that should not be missed.

If you are into fishing the likes of largemouth and white bass, as well as crappie, saugeye, bluegill, yellow perch, catfish and walleye reside in abundance within the lake. You will need a valid fishing licence in order to cast a line. But should you have one, you can choose to fish from the shoreline or in a boat out on the water.

Hiking and biking at Indian Lake State Park

Meandering through the park are several miles of trails which you can explore on foot or via a boat. While they differ in length and degrees of difficulty, these trails showcase the park’s exceptional flora, fauna and birdlife.

They also offer terrific photograph opportunities of the lake.

One of the most popular trails is the Pew Island Trail. At just under a mile it takes you to a small island on Indian Lake that conveys excellent views of the shoreline.

Stretching for 1.5-miles, the Cherokee Trail is another well trodden path that guides you through a mix of marsh and prairie habitats.

Picnicking at Indian Lake State Park

Those who want to enjoy a picnic at Indian Lake State Park are well catered for.

Overall there are six sheltered picnic areas dotted around the park, as well as several other tables.

Many of these sites have grills and all are within short walking distance to the nearest restroom.

Birding at Indian Lake State Park

You’ll definitely want to bring your binoculars to Indian Lake State Park as it is a renowned hotspot for birding.

Throughout the park you can spot several different species of birds. Some live there all through the year, while others stop by on a temporary basis during the migratory season.

Depending on what time of year you are there keep an eye out for goldeneye, pintails, bufflehead, herons, swans and egrets.

You might also see black and white warblers, blue headed vireos, American goldfinches and scarlet tanagers.

Pets at Indian Lake State Park

The park is very accommodating to dogs, allowing them entry into all campsites, as well as most hiking trails. There is even an off-leash dog park, located close to the Old Field Beach, which they can run around in until their heart’s content.

Some restrictions do apply however, namely they are not allowed on the swimming beach and they need to be well behaved and on a leash at all times.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the park’s pet policy it is worth contacting the main office.

Camping at Indian Lake State Park

Indian Lake State Park provides no shortage of camping options for the overnight visitor.

All up there are 440 sites available for those coming in the RVs or tents, most of which are located on, or near the water. Of these, 43 provide full hookups for electricity, water and sewer, while 360 sites have connections for electricity. The rest are primitive sites best suited to self-sufficient campers.

Each of the sites in this campground come with their own picnic tables and fire rings. Amenities at it include flush toilets, hot showers, laundry facilities and a dump station. There is even a commissary onsite where you can stock up on supplies and food, as well as a playground for kids and both basketball and volleyball courts.

As an alternative to the sites in this campground, the park presents ten boating campsite options. Situated right on the water of the lake, you will be able to enjoy unspoiled views of the sunrise and sunset from your aquatic position.

It is worth noting that these sites do not have fire rings or grills. However they do have easy access to the amenities at the main campground.

The park also offers two camper cabins for those who want the home comforts of air conditioning, fridge and microwave and a proper and comfortable bed to sleep on.

Park Location

Indian Lake State Park
13156 OH-235
Lakeview, OH 43331
Phone: 937.843.2717

Park Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Indian Lake State Park: