Ohio is home to many state parks where families can enjoy the great outdoors for free. Yes, every state park in Ohio provide free access to all daytime activities such as picnicking, swimming, hiking and fishing. Ohio weather is generally ideal for these types of activities in early summer and early fall. There are also no alcoholic beverages permitted in any Ohio state park.
One state park nestled between the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and glaciated lands of Ohio is Adams Lake State Park. Adams Lake State Park is located in West Union, Ohio. Adams Lake is a 47 acre lake and is located 36 miles west of Portsmouth, Ohio. The park itself is 95 acres. Serpent Mound is a nearby attraction that is located just North of Adams Lake State Park on Route 41. Serpent Mound is a quarter of a mile long and is a replica of an uncoiling snake. It was built by the Adena people between 800 B.C. and 100 A.D. There are also nearby Amish stores and businesses.
Adams Lake State Park allows fishing, boating and picnicking. There is one boat ramp and only non-powered and electric engine boats are allowed. There are also hiking trails, horseshoe pits and playground areas. An Ohio fishing license is required if fishing in the lake. The lake is stocked with large-mouth bass, bluegill, crappie, carp and catfish.
There is no overnight stay permitted at Adams Lake State Park. However, when visiting during the day, pets are permitted as long as they are on a leash at all times. There are four picnic areas with tables and restrooms. There are no trash cans available so bring a trash bag to collect all your garbage to take with you. There are also playground areas for the kids.
When visiting Adams Lake State Park, there’s something for every member of the family. A typical family visit to Adams Lake State Park might include boating and a little fishing in the morning. Then going to one of the picnic areas where the kids play on the playground while lunch is being prepared. The adults might enjoy a game of horseshoes or frisbee. The family eats lunch and then goes for a walk on the 3/4 mile trail that runs along the south side of the lake.
The region where Adams Lake State Park is located is known as the Bluegrass Region of Ohio. It is named this because of the plant life found in this region. Because of the glaciers and the Teays River that ran through Ohio, waters backed up and formed the Ohio River. The Teays River also brought plant life that was common in more southern regions to Adams County. This makes this area unique and provides visitors with beautiful scenery to enjoy.