🏆 Official Guide: Pike Lake State Park — A scenic CCC-era park in the wooded hills of southern Ohio (Pike County) — featuring a 13-acre lake (hand-dug by the CCC in the 1930s), a sand swimming beach, 79 electric campsites, seasonal cabins + group lodge, 5 hiking trails (connecting to the Buckeye Trail), fishing (bass, catfish, bluegill), kayak/canoe/pedal boat rentals, 18-hole disc golf, nature center, and amphitheater.
Pike Lake State Park is a living monument to Depression-era conservation — where CCC workers hand-dug a 13-acre lake, planted hundreds of pines, and built the roads that still serve visitors today. Nestled in the rolling, forested hills of southern Ohio, the park offers a classic state park experience with swimming, camping, fishing, and trails that connect to Ohio’s legendary Buckeye Trail.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Pike County, southern Ohio — near Morgantown |
| Lake | 13 acres — CCC hand-dug (1930s) |
| Beach | Sand swimming beach with beach house |
| Established | State forest park (CCC era) → State Park 1949 |
| Trails | 5 hiking trails — Buckeye Trail connection |
| Disc Golf | 18-hole course — equipment rentals |
Accommodations
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Campground | 79 sites — electric hookups, dump station |
| Cabins | Seasonal — various sizes |
| Group Lodge | Large group accommodation |
| Amenities | Shower houses, camp store (seasonal) |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Swimming | Sand beach — beach house with restrooms/showers |
| Hiking | 5 trails (0.4–1.2 mi) — Buckeye Trail connection |
| Fishing | Bass, channel catfish, bluegill, crappie — OH license req. |
| Kayak/Canoe | Rentals available — pedal boats too |
| Boating | Non-powered + electric motors (≤4.5 HP) |
| Disc Golf | 18-hole course — equipment rentals |
| Camping | 79 electric sites + cabins + group lodge |
| Nature Center | Educational programs + exhibits |
| Amphitheater | Park programs + events |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a motorboat?
Only boats with electric motors up to 4.5 horsepower are permitted on Pike Lake. No gas-powered motors. Canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats can be rented at the park.
What is the CCC connection?
During the 1930s Great Depression, Civilian Conservation Corps workers hand-dug the 13-acre lake, planted hundreds of pine trees, constructed roads, and built fire towers in the area. The park officially became a state park in 1949.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Paint Creek State Park (a short drive away) and Lake White State Park (a short drive away).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Ohio state parks online at reserveohio.com.
Park Location
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