A Guide to Parks & Paths Around Buckeye Lake

Buckeye Lake is a place where land and water experiences come together. From swimming beaches and kayak launches to wetlands and scenic trails, the parks around the lake each offer a unique way to explore. Whether you’re paddling, biking, fishing, or relaxing by the shore, here are some places to experience the natural side of Buckeye Lake.

North Shore Park – Village of Buckeye Lake 

Accessible by car and from the Buckeye Lake Dam Trail, North Shore Park is one of the most popular and versatile parks at the lake.

• The park is home to Crystal Beach, the primary swimming beach at Buckeye Lake.
• Picnic areas and shelter houses make it a great spot for gatherings and lakeside lunches.
• Picnic Point, located on the east side of the park (over the bridge), is expected to re-open in Spring 2026, adding another scenic lakeside picnic area to the North Shore
  
• The historic Buckeye Lake fountain and plaque provide insight into the lake’s history and local lore.
  

First-timer tip: 3XP Tours operates a self-service kayak station here, allowing visitors to download an app and explore the lake at their own pace.

Leib’s Island / State Island – Millersport | 2905 Leib’s Island Rd NE, Millersport, OH

Leib’s Island serves as a central access point and home to the Buckeye Lake State Park office.

• The park offers ample parking and boat ramp access for boating and fishing.
  
• Picnic tables provide a peaceful place to enjoy lake views.
  
• Interpretive signage shares Buckeye Lake’s transportation history and its connection to the Ohio & Erie Canal system.
  
• Leib’s Island is also the starting point of the Buckeye Lake Dam Trail.

Brooks Park – Millersport | 3500 S Bank Rd NE, Millersport, OH 

Located on the east side of Millersport, Brooks Park highlights the ecological side of Buckeye Lake.

• As the first H2Ohio wetland project in Central Ohio, the park features signage explaining wetlands and their importance.
  
• A walking path circles the park and offers scenic lake views.
  
• Fishing access, a boat ramp, and a small area suitable for launching kayaks are available.
  
• Picnic tables, a wetland overlook, and a playground make this park a great stop for families.

Fairfield Beach – Between Thornville & Millersport | Lake Shore Dr NE, Thornville, OH

Fairfield Beach is a spacious lakeside park ideal for relaxing and recreation.

• The park offers ample parking and plenty of picnic opportunities.
  
• A sandy shoreline provides space for swimming and enjoying the lake.
  
• Boat ramps, a pickleball court, and a volleyball net add to the recreational options.
• A lakeside trail is also located along the beach, perfect for strolling and dog walking! 

Thorn Township Canoe/Kayak Launch – Thornport / Thornville | 9250 Honey Creek Rd, Thornville, OH

This quiet launch is ideal for paddlers seeking a calm experience. 

• The launch is designed specifically for kayaks and paddleboards and is wheelchair accessible!
  
• It provides access to quieter sections of Buckeye Lake for a peaceful paddle.

Buckeye Lake Dam Trail – Buckeye Lake/Millersport | 2871 Leib’s Island Rd NE, Millersport, OH

The Buckeye Lake Dam Trail is one of the best ways to explore the lake on land.

• The 4.1-mile paved, multi-use trail is ideal for walking, biking, and running.
• The trail runs along the top of the dam, offering open views of Buckeye Lake.
• It connects Leib’s Island in Millersport with North Shore Park in the Village of Buckeye Lake.
• Along the way, visitors can stop at The Boatyard, and during summer months, enjoy ice cream by the water at Dips, located on the trail in the Village of Buckeye Lake.

Ohio Canal Greenway Trail – Hebron | 101 Canal Road, Hebron, OH

The Ohio Canal Greenway Trail is a popular multi-use path that offers a peaceful outdoor experience rooted in local history.

• The trail is well-loved for dog walking, birdwatching, biking, and jogging.
• It is located along the former canal towpath south of the Village of Hebron.
• This paved, 3-mile trail provides a smooth and accessible route for a variety of users.
• A highlight of the trail is a genuine wooden truss covered bridge, built in 1992.
• The trail runs from Canal Park in Hebron to State Route 79, following the historic canal corridor. 
  • *Parking is available at Canal Park, and there are a few spots located on the other end of the trail on SR 79 just west of the Village of Buckeye Lake.

Visitor Tip: 

Before heading out, be sure to check out our Recreation Resources Page for everything you need to enjoy Buckeye Lake. You’ll find information on local marinas, places to purchase fuel, boating gear, and bait and tackle, along with options for boat and watercraft rides and rentals throughout the region.