Lake Milton State Park

Lake Milton State Park in Ohio is comprised of over 1,000 acres of outdoor and water-related recreational activities, including camping, hunting, archery, biking, hiking, and even winter sports like skiing and snowmobiling. On the water, the lake is open to fishing, boating, and swimming. There are several designated swimming beaches along the lakeshore.

The park lies in an area of the Appalachian Plateau, an area composed of a variety of plants and wildlife, as well as several different landscapes and terrain types. As a mid-point between the Appalachians and the Allegheny regions, the type of trees and wildlife in the area is highly diverse. Animals found in the area include rabbits, foxes, raccoons, muskrat, and woodchuck, in addition to many types of birds and even some reptiles like the midland painted turtle and northern watersnake.

The park has a playground for children, basketball courts, and plenty of area for all family members to enjoy being outdoors. The beach areas offer plenty of mature trees for shade. Facilities are regularly monitored and maintained. Dogs are permitted in the campground and on designated trails; around two miles of trails are open to dogs on leashes. Dogs are not allowed on the designated swimming beaches, but they are allowed in the water if you access it from the park office area or from the lighthouse area.

As with any other park or dog-friendly destination, always remember to clean up after yourself and your pets. Always bring waste bags just in case, and come prepared with a short leash, plenty of drinking water, and keep your dog under physical control. Make sure your dog doesn’t become a nuisance to other visitors and never bring unvaccinated puppies, aggressive dogs, females in heat, or dogs who bark excessively.

Lake Milton State Park can be busy during the summer months, but is open year-round. Visitors may have a better chance at finding a quiet campsite or spot on the beach in early or late season. If you’re in Ohio, Lake Milton State Park is a great place to spend the day or several, and is open to family members on two legs or four.