Winton Lake in Ohio

Trip Overview

The other report on this site covered most of the details, so this is intended as a supplement. While the Lake is very convenient and scenic, paddlers should bear in mind that the source streams flow through urban areas and carry significant runoff and trash into the Lake. Bacteria count can be high, especially after storms. I note this because I have seen people practicing kayak rolls on the Lake. This is not only a bad idea because of the bacteria, but is against Park rules that prohibit spray skirts. As the person who lobbied the Park Board to open the Public Lake to public usage of private watercraft for 18 years, I had to chuckle at the other article's allusion to them responding to public demand. What they finally caved to was the possibility of legal action. I had to cite Supreme Court decisions that have consistently held that navigable waters are held in the public trust (especially when their construction and maintenance have been financed with tax dollars) and the public has a right to access. I note this not to highlight the inaccuracy of the previous report, but as a lesson to any paddlers that face similar bans. You have the right to access as upheld by the highest court in the land. Exercise it.

Accommodations:

Launch area is in the "Harbor" area which contains the launch, boat rental, bait sales and a snack bar. Also in the area is a 1.6 mile paved trail and a 100 site campground, with campsites right on the lake.

Fees:

A motor vehicle permit is required ($1/day or $3/year) A free launch permit is available at the nearby boathouse.

Directions:

From I-275, take Exit 39 (Winton Road) and head south on Winton Rd approximately 3 miles. Park entrance is on left.

Contact:

Hamilton County Park District (513) 521-7275