boat on the edge of the water at Lake Alma State Park

Looking for a quiet spot to escape into nature? Then consider Lake Alma State Park.

Situated just 20 minutes from Jackson and 90 minutes from Columbus, the 292 acre public recreational space was once home to an amusement park in 1903, which was complete with a merry-go-round, dance floor and movie theatre.

While you won’t see any carnival style attractions there today, the big star of the park is the stoic 60-acre lake. A haven for fishing and swimming, the park also has two beaches which are perfect for sunbathing on. Hiking is another popular activity at the park too, as is picnicking and wildlife watching – be sure to keep an eye out for turtles!

During the winter, many people come to this Ohio state park for the chance to enjoy snow related activities like cross-country skiing, ice skating and ice fishing.

The park is a popular day trip destination for visitors from Columbus, Cincinnati and the surrounding area. However, for those who want to stay for a few nights, there is also a very good campground which even offers some sites with full hookups.

Activities

Visitors to the park can choose to enjoy its wonderful landscape in several different ways.

Presented below is a brief overview of some of the main activities you can partake in during your time there.

Swimming at Lake Alma State Park

Within the park, there are a couple of public beaches on the shoreline of Lake Alma.

If you want to go for a swim to escape the summer heat, both provide access to its cooling waters during the day. You are not permitted to enter them at night.

If you intend to swim at the park you will need to exercise caution as the area is not patrolled by lifeguards. That said, the lake averages a depth of between eight to ten feet, so it is quite manageable.

Fishing at Lake Alma State Park

Flanked by beautiful trees and accommodating several lily pads on its surface, the lake is a picturesque spot in which to fish.

You will need a valid state license in which to do so. However, once you have secured one, you will have the chance to catch plenty of bass, redear sunfish, trout, bluegill and channel catfish.

The park’s main office will be able to tell you all the best fishing spots.

bridge over the water at Lake Alma State Park

Hiking at Lake Alma State Park

For those into hiking, the park provides three separate trails for you to explore.

Covering a distance of about three miles these trails are suitable for all levels of mobility and fitness as they take the form of a paved walkway.

While attempting them, you will get to take in several scenic spots and also observe a diverse range of birds and wildlife like herons and white-tailed deer.

Whilst on the trails, it is worth putting on plenty of sunscreen and bug spray. Wearing a hat and drinking lots of water is a good idea too.

Playing Games and Sports at Lake Alma State Park

If you like to play sports, the park has several activities you should enjoy. This includes the likes of basketball and volleyball courts.

There is also a nice playground for children to play in as well.

Picnicking at Lake Alma State Park

Many people who visit Lake Alma State Park choose to partake in a picnic in their surroundings.

Throughout the park you will find seven designated areas that are equipped with grills and tables. These are generally situated against a backdrop of forested hills and provide excellent views of the lake.

Whilst at the picnic area, or anywhere in the park for that matter, you are not allowed to consume alcohol. You should also be respectful to others and dispose of all trash appropriately.

Winter Activities at Lake Alma State Park

During the winter months many people bring their rig to the park for the opportunity to engage in a range of seasonal outdoor recreational pursuits.

This includes cross country skiing, which is a very popular way to explore the pristine landscape at this time of year.

It also includes ice skating and ice fishing – the latter of which you will still need a license to be able to do.

Pets at Lake Alma State Park

If you want to bring your dog with you to Lake Alma State Park you will be pleased to discover it has a nice dog area there.

Providing them with access to the lake, they can swim and splash around off leash in this area. At all other times whilst in the park, however, they will have to be restrained on a leash that is no more than six feet in length.

For a full rundown of the park’s pet policy it is worth contacting the park’s main office.

Camping at Lake Alma State Park

Nestled among the stunning forestland, the campground at Lake Alma State Park provides excellent accommodation options for those who want to stay overnight.

Although they aren’t the biggest you’ll stay at, the individual campsites are all well protected by shade. All up there are 82 campsites available, all but nine of which are set up for RVs. Six of these sites have hookups for water, electricity and sewage, while 67 have connections for electricity.

Open all throughout the year, amenities at this campground include hot showers, vault toilets, fire rings, bathrooms, a dump station and Wi-Fi.

The campground is also conveniently located next to two beaches and a children’s playground.

Park Location

Lake Alma State Park
422 Lake Alma Road
Wellston, OH 45692
Phone: 740.384.4474

Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video giving a tour of the campground at Lake Alma State Park: