A.W. Marion State Park
🏆 Official Guide: A.W. Marion State Park — A quiet park in Pickaway County, Ohio, centered around the 145-acre Hargus Lake — featuring a 5-mile perimeter lake trail, 7-mile multi-use trail (hiking + mountain biking), fishing for largemouth bass, muskie, bluegill, and channel catfish, electric-motor-only boating, seasonal marina + boat rentals, and a self-guided nature trail.
A.W. Marion State Park is a peaceful day-use and camping destination in central Ohio — built around the 145-acre Hargus Lake. The electric-motor-only boating policy ensures quiet waters perfect for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The park’s 12+ miles of combined trails make it one of the better hiking and mountain biking options in the Pickaway County area.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Pickaway County, central OH |
| Lake | Hargus Lake — 145 acres |
| Boating | Electric motors + hand-powered only — NO gas motors |
| Swimming | No designated beach — boat swim areas only |
| Marina | Seasonal — NW side of lake, boat rentals |
Trails
| Trail | Details |
|---|---|
| Hargus Lake Perimeter Trail | 5 mi — circles entire lake, scenic shoreline views |
| Multi-Use Trail | ~7 mi — hiking + mountain biking |
| Squawroot Nature Trail | 1 mi — self-guided, near campground |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Fishing | Largemouth bass, muskie, bluegill, channel catfish |
| Boating | Electric motors + hand-powered — marina + rentals |
| Kayak/Canoe | Quiet, no-wake lake — ideal for paddling |
| Hiking | 5-mi lake loop + 7-mi multi-use + 1-mi nature trail |
| Mountain Biking | 7-mi multi-use trail |
| Dog-Friendly | Designated off-leash lake access area |
| Picnicking | Day-use areas with shelters |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a gas motor on the lake?
No — Hargus Lake only permits electric motors and hand-powered vessels (kayaks, canoes, paddleboards). Gas motors are prohibited, keeping the lake quiet and clean.
Is there a swimming beach?
There is no traditional swimming beach. Swimming is permitted only in designated “Boat Swim” areas for boaters on the water. The park does have a designated off-leash dog swim area.
Park Location
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