Spend the Summer Taking in Natural Beauty at These Lake Erie State Parks!
One of the essential parts of taking a vacation is getting outside and exploring the area. When visiting Lake Erie in Ohio, you must visit our state parks! There are a few options for visitors to choose from. These state parks offer different amenities and experiences to enjoy. In this blog, we’ll cover the top Lake Erie state parks to visit, what to do, and how to get there. Visiting a state park is just the start of an exciting trip to Lake Erie! Be sure to request your copy of our Vacation Guide! You’ll find restaurants, festivals, outdoor activities, and more! Who’s ready for an outdoor adventure?
Geneva State Park (1 minute drive or 10-minute walk from Geneva-on-the-Lake)
First on the list is Geneva State Park. This park offers 698 acres of recreational area and places to enjoy activities. Boating, swimming, and plenty of relaxing are abundant here. Stroll through the park’s many trails, lounge on the sandy beach, and end the day watching the sunset on the horizon; this state park is the perfect place to enjoy Ohio’s natural beauty! Not only does the park have incredible beauty, but it also has a rich history. From the Ice Age to modern times, the lake and land have seen many things!
History of Geneva State Park
The Geneva State Park area was once the site of an enormous glacier. During the Ice Age, Ohio saw glaciers advance and recede several times, and this activity shaped the land and created the lake! Over the course of thousands of years, the lake we know today came to be.
During this change, Lake Erie also saw many human activities. During the 17th century, Native Americans made their home here; later, French trappers had trade routes here, and by the 19th century, the lake had become a significant trade route for goods traveling east to major cities. Today, the lake serves as a place for relaxing recreational activities and continued trading.
Erie Bluffs State Park (46 minutes from Geneva-on-the-Lake)
Erie Bluffs State Park is just across the Pennsylvania border and offers fantastic sights! This 587-acre park overlooks Lake Erie and offers hiking, biking, fishing, and more trails. The views are breathtaking! You’ll always be energized here, from the bluffs overlooking the lake to numerous wildlife roaming around and large trees providing shade. This park offers beauty and relaxation at its finest!
History of Erie Bluffs State Park
Erie Bluffs State Park also has a unique history of its own. During the Pleistocene period 11,00 years ago, the area was formed by glaciers grinding the rocks and creating the many features that define the park today. In modern times, the site is used for commercial fishing, lodging, agriculture, and recreation!
Pymatuning State Park (50 minutes from Geneva-on-the-Lake)
Located inland from the lake, Pymatuning State Park is a great place to enjoy charming scenery and fun activities! This park has archery, boating, camping, fishing, hunting, and more! Nature lovers can explore the unique birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals that call this park home.
History of Pymatuning State Park
The area known today as Pymatuning State Park is believed to have been inhabited by Native Americans since the 1700s. Later, trappers lived on the land and used the towering white pines for shipbuilding. During the 20th century, Ohio acquired the ground, and the modern state park was developed.
After exploring Lake Erie State Parks, stay at The Lakehouse Inn!
Our accommodations and amenities offer stunning views of Lake Erie and all the details you need for relaxation! We also have king and queen suites and rooms and two-bedroom cottages! No matter what you’re looking for in accommodations, we have it! We even have an on-property restaurant Crosswinds Grille. Stay with us and enjoy a comfortable stay, delicious food, and access to beautiful state parks!