Tucked away on South Bass Island you will find the smallest state park in Ohio’s system.
At just 1.5-acres in size, Oak Point State Park is easy to miss while visiting Lake Erie or Put-in-Bay. However, it is well worth going to if you are into boating, fishing, picnicking, birding or beautiful sunrises, as the park provides plenty of opportunities for all of them.
A smaller sibling to South Bass Island State Park, this beautiful island is a terrific place to relax, collect your thoughts or enjoy a digital detox.
There is no camping available at this Ohio state park, but with 20 docks available during the day or night, you shouldn’t have trouble snagging a spot.
Getting There
The best way to get to Oak Point State Park is by boat. If you don’t have your own vessel, then you can catch a privately operated ferry from the mainland at Sandusky, Put-In-Bay and Catawba.
This ferry will transport cars, bikes and walk-ins to the island. You can also rent bicycles and golf carts from private companies.
The park is open every day from 6 am to 11 pm. If you need some more ideas and travel options on how to get there, you should contact the friendly team at The Lake Erie Shores and Islands Welcome Center.
Activities
Visitors can enjoy a handful of outdoor recreational activities during their time at Oak Point State Park.
Presented below is a brief overview of some of the main things you can see and do while you are there.
Boating at Oak Point State Park
Boating is a very popular activity around Oak Point State Park and you will find twenty docks available there to rent during the day or overnight. This marina is located near Put-in-Bay, on the northern side of the island.
If you bring them with you the likes of kayaking, canoeing and SUP provide good opportunities to circumnavigate around the island.
Fishing at Oak Point State Park
For those who want to enjoy a spot of fishing there is a narrow sidewalk located on the park’s northern side which is a very good spot to cast a line.
Like with all state parks in Ohio you will need a fishing license if you are over the age of 16. In addition, you will also have to follow state rules and regulations.
However, should you have the appropriate permits you can choose to fish from the shoreline or in a boat within the middle of the water.
On a good day, you should be able to catch smallmouth bass, walleye and yellow perch.
Picnicking at Oak Point State Park
Whilst at the park there is a small picnic area where you can enjoy an al fresco meal.
This area showcases tremendous views of the surrounding waterway and also has restrooms and drinking water close to it.
Birding at Oak Point State Park
In keeping with the surrounding islands, there can be decent opportunities for birding at Oak Point State Park.
It is particularly good when migrating seasons are on, as the trees are often full of several different songbirds.
Depending on what time of the year you visit you might be able to spot Red-breasted Merganser, White-breasted Nuthatch, Great Blue Heron, Caspian Tern, Belted Kingfisher or Yellow-rumped Warbler. So it is well worth bringing your binoculars with you.
Things To Do Near Oak Point State Park
Oak Point State Park is quite small. So once you have seen and done everything you want to do, you should turn your attention to what to do next.
The most obvious thing to do is head on over to South Bass Island State Park which is also on the island.
Alternatively, if you would prefer to immerse yourself in nature, the Jane Coates Wildflower trail or Scheeff East Point Preserve are very good options to consider too.
Other notable points of interest you can visit include the International Peace Memorial and Perry’s Victory. To get there you will need to pass through the quaint and charming downtown area of Put-in-Bay. There you will find some excellent shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and a handful of other attractions.
Pets at Oak Point State Park
You are welcome to bring your dog with you to Oak Point State Park, however there are certain conditions imposed on their presence.
At all times they must be restrained on a handheld leash of less than six feet. They must also be well behaved and are not allowed to be left alone for more than 30 minutes.
As their owner, it is your responsibility to clean up after your dog should they make a mess.
Camping at Oak Point State Park
While there are no camping accommodation options available at Oak Point State Park, there are several places you can stay within close proximity of it.
This includes South Bass Island State Park, East Harbor State Park, and Kelleys Island State Park.
Between them they offer a range of cabins and lodges for overnight visitors. They also have several campsites that are set up for RVs and trailers. These include some that are primitive and others that come with connections for water, electricity and sewer.
Depending on where you stay, amenities at these campgrounds may include flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station. In addition, you might find children’s playgrounds, a swimming pool, laundry and camp store there.
For those who want something a bit more upscale there are hotels, cottages and other rental accommodation available at South Bass Island State Park.
Park Location
Oak Point State Park
770 Bayview Ave,
Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Phone: 419.734.4424
Leave A Comment