Jefferson Lake State Park is one of Ohio's quiet, out of the way camping parks. Nestled in oak and hickory wooded hills, this 945-acre park offers privacy and peaceful scenery in all seasons.
History:
The Jefferson Lake region was once the home of Logan, the celebrated Mingo chief whose family was massacred near here on the Ohio River at the mouth of Yellow creek. This incident spurred Lord Dunmore's War in 1774.
In more recent times, the area has been home to the steel industry in Ohio. The underlying coal fields and Ohio River access have made it a focal point of this industry.
Jefferson Lake State Park was developed on 962 acres in the valley of the Town Fork of Yellow Creek. Land acquisition began in 1928. The lake and other facilities were constructed by the National Park Service in cooperation with the old Ohio Division of Conservation as a project of the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. The dam was constructed in 1934 and the 17-acre lake was filled in 1946. In 1950, the area was turned over to the newly created Division of Parks and Recreation.
Camping
The camping area is suitable for both family and equestrian camping; tents and trailers can be accommodated.
All sites are first-come, first served, year-round. Walk-in registrations only; no reservations can be made.
5 electric sites
44 non-electric sites
Latrines, water fountains, picnic tables and horse tie lines are provided.
Pets are permitted on all sites
Volleyball and basketball courts are available in the campground.
Activities:
Boating
Non-motorized boats, and boats with electric motors up to 4 horsepower are permitted on 17-acre Jefferson Lake. One launch ramp provides access to the lake.
Fishing
Jefferson Lake offers great catches of largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill and redear sunfish. A valid Ohio fishing license is required.
Hunting
Hunting is permitted in designated areas. A valid Ohio hunting license is required.
Picnicking
Picnic tables and grills are located in scenic spots around the lake. Two shelterhouses are available on a "first come first served" basis.
Swimming
A 200-foot public beach offers recreation for swimmers and sunbathers. Swimming is permitted in designated areas during daylight hours only. Please exercise caution while swimming at the beach. Pets are not permitted on the swimming beach. There is also a nearby swing set for young beachgoers.
Trails
Nearly 18 miles of scenic, sometimes rugged, multiple use trails meander through the park, challenging hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers during any season.
Hiking Trail Only:
Campground Hikers Trail - 2 miles - Moderate
Bridle Trail Only:
Campground Horse Trail - 3 miles - Moderate
Six Multi-use trails allow hours back riding, hiking and biking:
Fernview - 2 miles - Easy
Oak Grove Trail - 1 mile - Moderate
Beaver Dam Trail - 2 miles - Moderate
Lakeside Loop - 2.5 miles - Moderate
Trillium Trail - 1.25 miles - Difficult
Logan Trail - 4.5 miles - Difficult
Winter Recreation
Under the proper conditions, park guests can enjoy ice skating, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.
