Buckeye Lake in Ohio

Trip Overview

Buckeye Lake was an integral part of the Erie Canal system and, as a result, offers a glimpse part of the canal as well as feeder creeks and the lake itself.

The lake is 9 miles long and lies in three counties, Fairfield, Licking and Perry. Bald Eagles have begun tomake a comeback in the area and are seen regularly. Fishing opportunities range from Crappie, to Bass to Saugeye.

The lake is generally shallow and sometimes is a bit choppy. On rougher days a kayak might be a better choice than a canoe.

Around the lake are several restaurants offering good food, live music and a frosty beverage.

For some reason, this lake isn't thought of as a paddlesports destination. It is a short distance from Columbus, OH and well worth a visit.

Accommodations:

There is no camping on the lake. There is a KOA Campground in the town of Buckeye Lake. Local hotels include a Red Roof Inn, a Duke motel and several other mom and pops spots.

Fees:

Legal tags required.

Directions:

From Interstate 70, take SR 37 South to 204. Take 204 East into Millersport. From there, several State Parks can be found by following the signs. All have launches. Canoe livery services can be found at the Canal Restaurant. A more extensive paddlesports resource would be C S Scuba; call 740-467-3252.

Resources:

Buckeye Lake State Park