Findlay State Park
🏕️ Ohio’s Family-Friendly Lake & Trail Escape – Updated 2025
A Quiet Lake in Lorain County
Findley State Park is a 838-acre park built around a peaceful 93-acre lake near Wellington, Ohio. Created in 1956, it’s one of Ohio’s most popular family camping destinations—and a connector for the statewide Buckeye Trail.
With a sandy swimming beach, electric-motor-only boating, 16 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, and a well-equipped campground, Findley delivers a well-rounded outdoor escape less than an hour from Cleveland.
Trails
Findley’s 16-mile trail system serves hikers and mountain bikers through rolling, wooded terrain.
Trail Overview
| Trail | Length | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Thorn MTB Trail | 9 miles | Challenging single-track with climbs and natural obstacles. |
| Buckeye Trail Section | ~2 miles | Part of Ohio’s statewide long-distance trail. |
| Larch Trail | 1.5 miles | Easy lakeside loop. Great for families. |
On the Lake
- Swimming: 435-foot sandy beach, open dawn to dusk. Concession stand available.
- Boating: Electric motors only. Canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals at the marina.
- Fishing: Largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. Excellent shore fishing access.
Planning Your Visit
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wellington, Ohio (Lorain County) |
| Size | 838 acres (93-acre lake) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Camping | Full-service, electric, primitive, cabins. Pet-friendly. |
| Reservations | Required, up to 6 months in advance via ODNR. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a gas-powered boat?
No. Only electric motors and hand-powered vessels are permitted on Findley Lake.
Are pets allowed at the beach?
Pets are allowed at the campground but are not permitted on the swimming beach.
