Located in Mercer and Auglaize counties, Ohio, Grand Lake St. Marys State Park is a treasured destination for those looking to explore the outdoors. Spanning over 13,000 acres, the park offers a diverse range of land and water activities, making it perfect for a fun-filled day trip or a weekend getaway. In this article, we’ll explore the natural landscape of Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, its popular activities, and suggest some additional outdoor adventures to enjoy in the area.
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Exploring Nature’s Beauty in Grand Lake St. Marys State Park
Grand Lake St. Marys State Park boasts a picturesque natural beauty, making it a prime spot for nature enthusiasts. The park’s most significant attraction is its vast 13,500-acre man-made lake, which also serves as the headwaters of the Miami-Erie Canal. The park’s surrounding landscape is a mix of farm fields, forests, and wetlands, making it easy to spot various wildlife, including pelicans and bald eagles.
Water Adventures at the Park
With its primary attraction being its man-made lake, Grand Lake St. Marys State Park offers a range of water-related activities to enjoy. These include swimming, boating, fishing, paddle boarding, and waterskiing, among others. The park has several boat launches and rental facilities from where visitors can rent motorboats, pontoon boats, and kayaks.
Land Adventures at the Park
Grand Lake St. Marys State Park also offers a diverse range of land-based activities. Its 500-acre wetland complex makes it the ideal spot for wildlife observation and bird watching. The park also features four different hiking trails, which wind through lush forests, fields and wetlands, and offer scenic views of the lake. The trails are suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, depending on your preference.
Additional Outdoor Activities in the Area
If you’re looking for more outdoor activities to enjoy in the area, here are a few ideas:
Exploring the Miami and Erie Canalway
The Miami and Erie Canalway was once a significant transportation route in Ohio, and today its remnants serve as a popular destination for bike riders, hikers, and history buffs. A portion of the canalway runs through Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, making it easy to hop on and explore the surrounding towns.
Camping and Picnicking
Grand Lake State Park has several camping and picnicking facilities located in quiet, serene settings, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature.
No matter what activity you choose, Grand Lake St. Marys State Park offers an exciting array of things to do and discover.
Conclusion
Grand Lake St. Marys State Park is a beautiful destination that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, whether you’re interested in water or land activities. Its natural beauty is awe-inspiring, and its diverse range of attractions make it an exciting destination for nature enthusiasts. As you plan your visit, be sure to confirm park hours, and leave no trace as you explore the great outdoors of Grand Lake St. Marys State Park in Ohio.