We visited Kiser Lake State Park in Champaign County at the end of May. The park features a 396 acre lake man-made lake. Originally a moraine valley created during the ice age, the lake was formed when a dam was built on Mosquito Creek at one end of the valley.
The lake is 2.5 miles long with 5.3 miles of shoreline and five piers. Additionally, boats (motors prohibited) are available for rent at the park. Many people were fishing the weekend that we were there. Further illustrating the popularity of fishing at Lake Kiser, we walked into the park’s marina / camp store and noted that half of the store was devoted to fishing gear. The lake features largemouth bass, sunfish, crappie, perch, carp, and catfish.
The campground features sites in a pleasant meadow near the lake, and several sites right on the lake. A 600 foot beach is available for swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There are several small trails for hiking as well as a trail at adjacent Kiser Lake Wetlands State Nature Preserve. Winter activities at the park include cross-country skiing, ice fishing, skating, and ice boating.
Additional information
- TrekOhio: Champaign County Parks & Nature Preserves — This is the county where Kiser Lake State Park is located; check out this page for links to the official website and for information on nearby parks and preserves.
- TrekOhio: Kiser Lake Wetlands State Nature Preserve — The state nature preserve is near the state park.
- ODNR: Fishing Licenses
- ODNR: Unique Getaways — Discusses camper cabins, yurts, island getaways, and other unusual lodging opportunities at Ohio State Parks.
Location
Address: 4889 N State Route 235, Conover, Ohio 45317
Geo-coordinates: N 40° 11′ 10.38″, W 83° 57′ 48.70″
More on Champaign County
Kiser Lake Wetlands State Nature Preserve
Davey Woods
Siegenthaler-Kaestner Esker
Cedar Bog in Late Spring
We stayed the weekend of Labor Day. It was great. The friendly staff was helpful, the rangers were fun and informative. We participated in most of the activities offered-no age limit! They had movies at night for the kids, with popcorn and soda. Lots to do at this state park-swim, fish, boat, hike, etc. This park was true camping, no showers or running water. Three natural springs with fresh, cold water. We will definetly re-visit.
I like those cabins, reminds me to grab one last glimpse of summer this upcoming long weekend.