West Branch State Park
🎣 Trusted Guide to Ohio’s Premier Reservoir Park – Updated 2025
A 2,650-Acre Lake in Ohio’s Countryside
In Portage County, West Branch State Park encompasses 5,379 acres of rolling northeast Ohio countryside centered on the Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir — a 2,650-acre lake that’s one of Ohio’s top destinations for boating, fishing, and waterfront camping. The reservoir’s unlimited horsepower designation makes it one of the few Ohio lakes where you can really open up a boat, while its diverse fish habitat draws anglers year-round for walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish. With over 14 miles of hiking trails (including a section of the statewide Buckeye Trail), this is Ohio’s complete outdoor package.
Fish, Boat, Repeat
- Walleye fishing: The reservoir is renowned for exceptional walleye catches — spring and fall are prime
- Bass fishing: Both largemouth and smallmouth thrive in the lake’s diverse structure
- 5 boat launch ramps: Including one in the campground for maximum convenience
- Unlimited horsepower: One of the few Ohio lakes with no motor restrictions
- West Branch Marina: Boat rentals, fuel, supplies, and ice available on-site
- Ice fishing: Popular winter activity when conditions allow — crappie and walleye
Camping & Trails
The park features over 200 paved campsites with many offering electrical hookups and lake access — some even have boat tie-ups right at the site:
- Buckeye Trail section: Hike part of Ohio’s 1,444-mile statewide loop trail through the park
- 14 miles of trails: Natural surface paths winding through woodlands and along the reservoir
- Group camps and horse camps available for larger parties and equestrian visitors
Practical Tips
- From Akron (30 miles): Take I-76 East to Route 14 East to the park
- Entry fee: Free (Ohio state parks are free)
- Camping: Reservations required — book up to 6 months in advance for summer weekends
- No-wake zones within 300 feet of all shorelines — be aware of designated areas
- Swimming is allowed only in designated areas with lifeguard supervision in season
- Bring insect repellent — the wooded shoreline areas can have significant mosquito activity in summer
- Combine with Tinkers Creek State Nature Preserve (nearby) for rare wetland ecology
