While away your days by boating, swimming, fishing, and soaking up the sun at one of many breathtaking lakes in Ohio. Look forward to letting go of all your worries and relaxing on the sand. As for accommodations, there is an abundance of Ohio vacation rentals that sit along the edge of a lake or within easy driving distance of a waterfront state park. If you can’t decide on which Ohio lake to visit, then start with these scenic spots.

1. Adams Lake State Park

Nestled in the bluegrass region of the state, Adams Lake State Park. The park only allows electric motor watercraft and those without motors out on the lake so it’s a great place to unwind as you make your way around on a kayak or canoe. Fishing is popular here, and you’re likely to catch carp, crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass and bullhead for a fish fry back at your vacation rental. If you don’t want to cook, grab a pie from Snappy Tomato Pizza, or opt for something a little more exotic at Taste of China.

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2. Wingfoot Lake State Park

Close to Akron, Wingfoot Lake State Park offers you a place to unwind and relax or opt to spend a day in the city exploring a new museum. This lake is surrounded by lush greenery and stately trees. Take advantage of the archery range and the disc golf to teach your kids a new skill. Hunter’s Outlet Archery Center can set you up with everything you need to start. If you brought your pup, the park offers a dog park, where he can stretch his legs. Stop by Lake Varsity Diner for a hearty breakfast.

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3. Atwood Lake

With 1,500 acres, Atwood Lake is a popular spot to bring your boat and launch it from one of the public ramps. This lake sits close to both Akron and Cleveland. Take the family to the public beach for a day of sun, and don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch before leaving your vacation rental to enjoy at the picnic tables. Kids love the organized activities and free Wifi at the Activity Center. The Atwood Dock Marina and Grill is a great spot for a quick meal or pick up supplies to make your own.

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4. Tappan Lake Park

Close to Uhrichsville and Cadiz, Tappan Lake Park is one of the larger lakes with 2,350 acres of water. SPend your days swimming, boating, and fishing. Around the lake, there are 14 miles of hiking trails for when you want to stretch your legs on dry land. Stop by the Activity Center for supplies or a quick bite to eat. There’s a public beach with a rainbow of activities, including kayak rentals and a water obstacle course.

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5. Berlin Lake

Does your family love fishing? Then Berlin is the place to go this summer. The area was specifically developed for fishing and hunting with a dedicated dog training area. Year round, fishing is worth the trip. Anglers catch largemouth bass and smallmouth bass. Launch your boat from one of the public ramps, and you find your lines catching Walleye, bass, and crappies. Stop by Les’s Bait Marcko Landing for fresh bait and tackle. Take a lesson to learn how to sail at the Berlin Yacht Club.

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6. Lake Milton State Park

Lake Milton State Park offers many family-friendly activities. Start with a day at the 600-foot swimming beach, and challenge your kids to a game of beach volleyball or let them play on the playground while you catch up on your summer reading. You can bring your own boat and dock it at one of the spaces for rent. The ODMR Division of Wildlife stocks this lake with walleye, largemouth bass, and channel catfish so don’t forget your fishing gear. Gioninos Pizzeria is a great place for a quick meal and then stop at Lil Paws Winery to find a new favorite wine.

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7. Mosquito Lake

Mosquito Lake is one of the largest lakes in the state so bring sure to bring your powerboat and dock it at one of the numerous spaces for rent. At Mosquito Lake Marina, you can rent a fishing boat for a day on the lake or something a little more low-key, such as a canoe or kayak. Numerous trails wind around the lake, making it a popular area for Nordic skiing in the winter months. Four Star Diner offers all your breakfast favorites along with burgers.

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8. Buckeye Lake

Home to one of Ohio’s oldest state parks, Buckeye Lake used to supply the intricate canal system. This large lack doesn’t have any engine size restrictions so launch your own boat from one of the nine public ramps. Buckeye Lake Marina rents pontoon boats, kayaks, and canoes so you can enjoy the water. Try out all three of the public beaches during your trip to find your favorite. Take the kids to The Dairy Dock for some ice cream in the summer months.

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9. Burr Oak Lake

Burr Oak Lake is the one for a family who loves nature and wildlife. During your stay in the area, you might see grouse and a wild turkey or two. Bluegill, bass, and crappie are the most commonly caught fish whether you cast your line from the shore or from a boat. There is an 18-hole disc golf course to try your hand at this cool, new sport. On a rainy afternoon, stop by the Murray City Coal Mine Museum and History Center to learn a little local history.

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10. Dillon State Park

Dillon State Park has one of the largest lake beaches in the state at an impressive 1,360-foot. Enjoy the summer sun while your kids play in the water or try your hand at pickleball. There’s also a wading pool, tennis courts, and a shooting range. Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl is the place to take your family for a treat, and families with older members should take a tour of the Weasel Boy Brewing Company, enjoying the samples afterward.

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