🌤 Weather at Forked Run State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28–75 °F | 56–85 °F | 30–79 °F | 20–44 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Sandyville 9 NE, 14 mi away, elevation 668 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Nestled within the bosky hill country that defines much of southeastern Ohio you’ll find the magnificent Forked Run State Park.
Set within 791-acres, this fabulous park accommodates much of the Ohio River. It also boasts a gorgeous lake and dense forest that combines to create a stunning landscape in which to explore.
This provides guests with excellent opportunities to engage in a range of outdoor recreational activities including boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking and hunting. When the snow hits, in the winter, sledding is a popular activity too.
Situated about a two hour drive from Columbus and three hours from Cincinnati, the park has a distinctly remote and tranquil feel to it.
For many who want to visit the park, it often involves having to stay at least for one night. Thankfully there is an excellent campground available which offers both electric and non-electric sites for RVs, trailers and tent campers.
Activities
This Ohio state park provides visitors with a myriad of different ways to immerse themselves in its spectacular landscape.
Here is a brief overview of some of the various activities you can enjoy while you are there.
Boating at Forked Run State Park
One of the premier recreational pursuits at the park is boating. This takes place on the scenic 120-acre Forked Run Lake that resides within it.
While there are no firms restrictions in place on a maximum limit for horsepower, vessels with more than 10HP are encouraged to stick to a no-wake speed.
There are two launch ramps that will help you gain straightforward access to the lake. In addition, the wildlife launch ramp will also get you onto the Ohio River.
If you did not bring a boat with you on your trip you can rent them out. The river and lake are also popular spots for kayaking, canoeing and SUP too.
Fishing at Forked Run State Park
The lake provides excellent opportunities for fishing, with crappies, bluegill and catfish all residing within it in abundance.
To fish in the lake you will need to obtain a valid Ohio fishing license. You can choose to cast a line on the shoreline or in a boat while on the water.
The lake features freshwater jellyfish that are the size of a dime. So it is not recommended you go into the water to fish.
Hiking at Forked Run State Park
If you enjoy hiking, the park provides you with plenty of chance to explore its enchanting landscape.
Overall there are three hiking trails you can tackle, which total four miles in length. These trails allow you to venture deep into the park for wildlife watching, nature viewing and photography.
One of the most popular courses is the Deer Run Trail as it can be accessed from the campground. It runs for just under a mile and showcases delightful scenery.
The Lake View Trail is another regularly attempted trek. Extending for two miles it provides comely views of the water.
Picnicking at Forked Run State Park
Many people who visit the park choose to indulge in a picnic.
Throughout Forked Run State Park you will find several picnic tables and outdoor grills that will enable you to enjoy a cooked al fresco meal. There is also drinking water readily available too.
One of these shelters is based on Forked Run Lake near the small swimming beach. This is a good place to take children as there is also a playground there for them to enjoy.
Hunting at Forked Run State Park
The park and the Shade River State Forest, which is also nearby, provide opportunities for hunting in specifically designated areas.
Some species you can catch are squirrels, deer, wild turkey and grouse. Be aware that you will need a valid Ohio state hunting license in which to do so.
Sledding at Forked Run State Park
When the snow comes in the colder months, the park turns into a haven for those who enjoy sledding.
If you bring a high horsepower snowmobile with you during this time, you will be able to zip around the park’s wintry landscape.
Be aware that some of these trails are elevated, so it’s worth paying attention to the direction in which you are headed.
Pets at Forked Run State Park
At Forked Run State Park, pets are permitted on select campsites (campground page) but not on the swimming beaches (Forked Run park page).
Ohio State Parks rules apply: keep your pet on a hand-held leash no longer than 6 feet and under control at all times, except inside a designated dog exercise area, and carry proof of its rabies vaccination (Ohio DNR state park rules, as of October 2026).
In the campground, up to two pets are allowed per site. Don’t leave your dog or cat unattended (on your own site it may be tethered on a securely anchored lead), keep it out of enclosed camping structures and off the camp beach, pick up after it, and make sure it wears a collar or tag with your name and address (Ohio Administrative Code 1501:46-9-10).
Camping at Forked Run State Park
If you are looking to stay for a few nights to really make the most of your time at Forked Run State Park the campground there is very accommodating.
Presenting 143 sites across five different areas, visitors have a choice between 79 that come with connections for electricity and 64 that are non-electric.
Most of these sites take the form of paved pads. They also come with their own fire rings and picnic tables.
Amenities for these sites include vault toilets, showers, a playground and dump station. You can also use laundry services that are situated within the campground as well.
Reservations can be made up to six months ahead of your intended visit and are highly recommended.
Park Location
Forked Run State Park
63300 State Route 124
Reedsville, OH 45772
Phone: (740) 378-6206
Map
Video
Here is a video with a quick look at the campsites at Forked Run State Park:
Explore More Ohio State Parks
Forked Run State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Ohio. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Ohio guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Strouds Run State Park (within about an hour’s drive) or Burr Oak State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Forked Run State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in Ohio state parks and in all state park campgrounds (maximum two pets per campsite) but must be leashed in public areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not to exceed 6 feet in length, in hand and under control
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- No pets allowed at swimming beaches; some parks have designated dog swim areas and dog parks
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pet-friendly cabins available at select parks (Buck Creek, Cowan, Dillon, Lake Hope, Mohican, Pike Lake, Pymatuning); maximum two pets per cabin; $10 added fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 added fee for pet-friendly cabins (charged whether pets come along or not); no pet fee for day use or camping
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Designated leash-free dog exercise areas exist at some parks; no bathing of pets in campground shower houses
Are dogs allowed at Forked Run State Park?
Pets are allowed in Ohio state parks and in all state park campgrounds (maximum two pets per campsite) but must be leashed in public areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via ohiodnr.gov. More: Ohio state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Forked Run State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near West Virginia
from $103
from $200
from $60