Welcome sign at Lake Logan State Park

Welcome sign at Lake Logan State Park. Photo: Sixflashphoto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Despite being just a 45 minute drive from Columbus, Lake Logan State Park feels like a completely different world away.

Nestled within the Hocking Valley, among the undulating foothills of the Appalachians, the park offers 400 secluded acres of nature for visitors to enjoy.

Renowned for being one of the premier fishing destinations in the state, many people also come here for a day of boating, swimming and hiking. Other pursuits like picnicking and hunting are popular too, while the winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating and ice fishing.

Unfortunately there is no camping accommodation available at this Ohio state park. But don’t let this stop you from coming here.

The chance to immerse yourself in the park’s exquisite natural beauty is one you should not miss and there are several other options in the surrounding area where you can always choose to stay at.

Activities

Visitors to the park can engage in a wide range of outdoor recreational pursuits during their time at Lake Logan State Park.

Showcased below is just a handful of the many things you can see and do during your time there.

Boating at Lake Logan State Park

The lake at the park was created in 1955 by the construction of the Lake Logan Dam. Now incorporating 400-acres, it is seen as a notable spot for boating.

You can take to the water in vessels of up to 10 horsepower, although a speed limit of 10 mph is insisted upon. There are also two boat ramps available on the lake’s southeastern and northeast sections to provide you with easy access to it.

Boat docks are also available on a seasonal basis to rent.

Swimming at Lake Colorado City State Park

In the summer months the park gets very warm, so you will want to bring your costume with you to go for a swim.

On the northern shoreline of the lake is a beach that stretches for 527 feet. You can go for a dip in its cooling waters there at any time during the day.

You’ll also find restrooms in this area. However, as it is not lifeguarded, if you do swim, you will have to exercise caution.

Fishing at Lake Logan State Park

Championed as one of the best places to fish in Ohio, anglers from all over the state come to the park to cast a line.

A valid Ohio fishing licence is required if you want to do so. However once you have secured that you will be able to throw your reel into the water from the shoreline or a boat in the middle of the lake.

Wherever you choose to fish, you can expect to catch plenty of bass, bluegill, saugeye, catfish, crappie and northern pike.

Hiking at Lake Logan State Park

For those who enjoy hiking, the park accommodates about 1.25-miles of the Buckeye Trail.

This trail runs through the park’s northwest area, leading to the Hocking Hills State Forest.

Along the way it showcases a diverse range of flora and fauna, so make sure you have your camera at the ready to snap those nature scenes for your Instagram.

Picnicking at Lake Logan State Park

Many people choose to engage in a picnic during their time at the park.

Overall there are six different areas in which they can do this at various points around the lake.

Most of these areas are equipped with grills and tables. They also have drinking water and restrooms available near them too.

Hunting at Lake Logan State Park

Many people come to the park during the designated season for the pursuit of hunting.

This takes place in specially cordoned off sections where you can catch ruffed grouse, deer, waterfowl, rabbit, fox, squirrel and raccoon.

You will need a valid Ohio hunting license in order to do so and abide by the rules and regulations that pertain to this activity.

Winter recreation at Lake Logan State Park

During the winter months the park receives a lot of snow. The lake is also prone to completely freezing over.

This provides excellent conditions, for cross country skiing and sledding throughout the park. While on the lake ice skating and ice fishing are often practiced too.

Pets at Lake Logan State Park

The park is designated as pet friendly, although certain conditions are imposed on the presence of your four legged friend within it.

For instance, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and well behaved. They are also not allowed to be left unattended for more than 30 minutes and as their owner, you are responsible for cleaning them up if they make a mess.

Camping at Lake Logan State Park

Unfortunately there is no camping available directly in the park. However, just a short distance from it you will find a few places you can stay at with your RV or trailer.

This includes the Campbell Cove Campground, Big Sycamore Family Campground, and Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds. Between them, these venues offer a range of accommodation options including full hook up campsites, cabins, lodges and primitive tent areas.

Depending on which one you stay at, some of the amenities may include flush toilets, hot showers, a children’s playground, dump station and even laundry.

Should you prefer something that provides more comforts of home, the nearby towns of Logan, Rockbridge and Sugar Grove should all have motels, Vrbo or Air Bnb type accommodation. While there are plenty of hotels to choose from in Columbus.

Park Location

Lake Logan State Park
20160 St. Rt. 664
Logan, OH 43138
Phone: 740.385.6842

Park Website

Map

Video

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