Portage Lakes State Park

Lakeside Haven

Tucked away near Akron, Ohio, Portage Lakes State Park spans a modest 411 acres, but don't let that fool you - it embraces a network of eight interconnected lakes covering over 2,000 acres of water. These weren't just any random lakes; they actually served a purpose back in the day as feeder reservoirs for the Ohio and Erie Canal system during the 19th century.

Water Recreation

The park offers numerous water-related activities. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the eight boat launch ramps scattered around the park for easy lake access. Most lakes allow boats with up to 400 horsepower, but Nimisila Reservoir keeps things peaceful with an electric motors-only policy.

The larger lakes offer plenty of space for water skiing, jet skiing, and sailing when the weather's right. Fishing here is quite the draw - you can try your luck catching largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. Local anglers particularly mention the good crappie fishing here.

You can find several fishing piers and shoreline spots to cast your line. When it's time to cool off, head to the 900-foot public beach on Turkeyfoot Lake. Just a heads-up: water quality can be hit or miss, and some water shoes might save your feet from the occasional rough spot. The beach tends to fill up quickly during summer weekends and holidays, so planning an early arrival isn't a bad idea.

Land Activities and Wildlife

Dry land more your thing? The park offers several miles of hiking trails winding through woodlands and wetland areas. The Planet Walk Trail is worth checking out, however the trail markings can be a bit vague in spots, so keep your bearings.

The natural areas serve as home to impressive wildlife, especially birds. You might spot great blue herons gliding over the water, Canada geese making themselves at home, various duck species, and if you're lucky, majestic eagles soaring overhead. Birdwatchers will find plenty to add to their lists, from warblers to other woodland birds. The forests also harbor white-tailed deer, raccoons, and other mammals going about their business.

The park's disc golf course combines nice views with enough challenge to keep things interesting. When it's time for a break, multiple picnic areas dot the lakeshores, with shelters you can reserve for gatherings. Kids will appreciate the well-maintained playground when they need to burn off some energy.

Dog-Friendly Features

No need to leave your four-legged friend at home - the park welcomes dogs on leashes in most areas. There's even a dedicated dog park with water access where your pup can splash around, making this a favorite spot for many pet owners in the region.

Seasonal Opportunities

When winter rolls in and conditions cooperate, the park transforms for cold-weather activities like ice fishing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing. During the year, you might catch seasonal events that locals love, including fireworks displays and boat parades that add some festive flair to the park experience.

Historical Significance

Ever wonder about that unique name? The park sits on what was once an ancient Native American portage route between the Cuyahoga and Tuscarawas river systems. This eight-mile overland path created a crucial connection, allowing travel between Lake Erie and the Ohio River with just a short carrying distance for canoes. It was quite an innovative transportation route for its time.