In a setting that highlights the mystery of an old swamp forest and the excitement of a water recreation area, Pymatuning State Park invites outdoor lovers of all ages to enjoy a relaxing lakeside vacation experience.
In addition to being one of the finest walleye and muskellunge lakes in the country, Pymatuning offers excellent camping, swimming and boating opportunities as well.
History:
Settlement of the area by white immigrants from the east was slow to occur. The vast Pymatuning swamp and nearly impenetrable forest made travel difficult. The earliest Europeans to reside here were trappers in search of valuable beaver pelts. Later, the lush forest attracted lumbermen who especially prized the strong, straight trunks of the white pines that were used to construct masts for sailing ships. As more and more settlers came into northern Ohio, much of the wilderness character of the Pymatuning region was lost. Remnants of the original swamp still remain today, coaxing the modern day naturalist to explore this unique habitat.
In 1933, the dam which impounded Pymatuning Reservoir was constructed to regulate the flow of the Shenango and Beaver rivers. Land on the western shore of the reservoir was acquired by the state of Ohio in 1935, and in 1950 the Division of Parks and Recreation began developing Pymatuning State Park.
Camping
8 full-service sites have 30/50-amp electric service
334 sites have 20- or 30-amp electric hookups
21 sites are non-electric
Heated shower houses
Flush toilets
Laundry facilities
Campground store
Small beach for campers is located near the center of the campground.
Picnic pavilion
Nature programs
Basketball and volleyball courts
Playgrounds
Free WiFi access is available at the camp office to registered campers
Activities
Boating
The 14,000-acre reservoir offers 20 horsepower limit boating. Five boat-launch ramps are situated around the lake for convenient access. There are 360 docks available for seasonal rental. Many private boat rental concessions are located around the lake.
Fishing
Known for fine walleye fishing, Pymatuning is one of the best inland fishing lakes in Ohio. Anglers will also find good catches of crappie, black bass, bluegill, yellow perch, white bass and channel catfish. Large bluegill, 8-inches and higher, are common catches, along with an occasional trophy muskellunge. Either an Ohio or Pennsylvania fishing license is required for boat fishing, but bank fishing requires a license from the applicable state.
Hunting
The park offers several areas that are open to trapping, gun and bow hunting for deer and other game in season, including hunting of game birds. General hunting is restricted to the period October 15 to March 1, except for spring turkey hunting (north of SR 85) and teal hunting. Bow hunting for deer only is permitted in two designated areas south of State Route 85, with one area closed after November 30. A valid Ohio hunting license is required.
Picnicking
Four picnic areas with tables and grills are located in many secluded and scenic areas along the lakeshore. Three shelterhousess are available for reservation online or by calling (866) 644-6727.
Swimming
A 500-foot swimming beach is located just south of the causeway. Facilities include a changing house, showers, restrooms and two volleyball courts. Swimming is permitted in designated areas during daylight hours only. Please exercise caution while swimming at the beach.
Trails
The park is home to two hiking trails:
Whispering Pines Trail - 0.4 mile - Easy
Beaver Dam Trail - 1 mile
Winter Recreation
Northeastern Ohio's "snow belt" region is the setting for spacious Pymatuning State Park. Under the proper winter conditions, park guests can enjoy ice boating and ice fishing. The Beaver Trail Dam allows cross-country skiing. Snowmobiling is permitted on the Pennsylvania side of the lake.
