Looking for the biggest lakes in Ohio? Whether you’re planning a fishing weekend, a family camping trip, or simply want to explore the Buckeye State’s natural beauty, Ohio’s lakes offer something for everyone. From the vast shores of Lake Erie to peaceful inland reservoirs, here is your complete, fact-checked guide to the 20 biggest lakes in Ohio, ranked by surface area.
1. Lake Erie — The Largest Lake in Ohio
Lake Erie is the crown jewel of Ohio’s waterways — the largest and deepest lake in the state and one of North America’s five Great Lakes. It spans approximately 9,910 square miles, reaches a maximum depth of 210 feet, and stretches along 799 miles of shoreline.
The lake sits on the international boundary between the United States and Canada. Ontario borders it to the north, while Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York share the southern and eastern shores. Cleveland — Ohio’s largest city — anchors the region alongside Buffalo (NY), Erie (PA), and Toledo (OH).
Lake Erie’s relatively warm temperatures and abundant plankton produce the most prolific fish populations of any of the Great Lakes. Walleye, perch, and bass attract anglers from across the country. Several public parks surround the lake, and a wildlife reserve in Springfield Township was established in 1991 for hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and beach strolling.
- Surface area: ~9,910 sq miles
- Maximum depth: 210 feet
- Shoreline: 799 miles
- Best for: Fishing, boating, beach walks, wildlife watching
2. Pymatuning Lake — Largest Inland Reservoir Touching Ohio
Pymatuning Lake is a beloved man-made reservoir straddling the Ohio–Pennsylvania border between Ashtabula County (OH) and Crawford County (PA). Completed in 1934, it covers 17,088 acres with 70 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 35 feet. Roughly one quarter of the lake lies on the Ohio side.
The lake serves a dual purpose: supplying water to the Shenango and Beaver valleys while also reducing flood damage. Two full-service state parks — both named Pymatuning State Park — sit on either side of the border. A scenic 2-mile causeway bridge connects the towns of Espyville (PA) and Andover (OH).
Pymatuning is legendary for walleye fishing and is considered one of the best lakes in the region for muskellunge, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and perch. Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted on the Ohio side, with five improved boat launch ramps and several marinas available.
- Surface area: 17,088 acres
- Maximum depth: 35 feet
- Shoreline: 70 miles
- Best for: Walleye fishing, family camping, boating
3. Grand Lake St. Mary’s — Ohio’s Largest Inland Lake
Grand Lake St. Mary’s holds the title of Ohio’s largest fully inland lake. Originally built in the 1840s as a feeder reservoir for the Miami–Erie Canal, it now covers approximately 13,500 acres, stretches 9 miles long and 3 miles wide, and offers roughly 52 miles of shoreline.
Three historic lighthouses dot the lake — the oldest built in 1923 and the newest in 2003. Grand Lake St. Mary’s State Park offers year-round boating, hunting, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. It is also home to Ohio’s only seaplane airfield.
Anglers will find largemouth bass, white and black crappie, bluegill, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, yellow perch, bullheads, and carp. The ODNR Division of Wildlife operates the St. Mary’s Fish Hatchery on the eastern shore, raising saugeye, walleye, channel catfish, and bass for Ohio’s public waterways.
- Surface area: ~13,500 acres
- Maximum depth: 7 feet
- Shoreline: ~52 miles
- Best for: Fishing, watersports, seaplane spotting
4. Mosquito Creek Lake — Ohio’s Second Largest Inland Lake
Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mosquito Creek Lake covers approximately 7,850 acres near the city of Cortland in Trumbull County. It was built primarily to help the city of Warren with flood management, pollution reduction, and water supply — and has since become one of the top outdoor recreation destinations in northeastern Ohio.
Mosquito State Park features a marina, a butterfly garden, an amphitheater, and free summer concerts. Over 500 campsites are available, including a five-acre off-leash dog park and a separate pet swimming area. Ice fishing through the winter freeze is also a beloved local tradition.
Mosquito Lake is best known for exceptional walleye fishing. Crappie, bass, northern pike, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, perch, and carp round out the species list.
- Surface area: ~7,850 acres
- Maximum depth: 24 feet
- Shoreline: ~215 miles
- Best for: Walleye fishing, camping, pet-friendly visits
5. Indian Lake — A Canal-Era Landmark
Completed in 1851 as a feeder lake for the Miami and Erie Canal, Indian Lake spans approximately 5,800 acres with a 29-mile shoreline. Located near Lakeview, Ohio — about 20 miles southeast of Lima — it was incorporated into the Ohio Division of Parks and Recreation in 1949.
Today Indian Lake is known for year-round activities including boating, fishing, water skiing, camping, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. It is a nationally recognized fishing destination, with saugeye, largemouth bass, white and black crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and yellow perch all thriving in its waters. The lake hosts several major fishing competitions each year.
- Surface area: ~5,800 acres
- Maximum depth: 15 feet
- Shoreline: 29 miles
- Best for: Fishing tournaments, water skiing, snowmobiling
6. Berlin Lake — One of Ohio’s Deepest Lakes
Berlin Lake sits in the countryside of northeastern Ohio, close to Akron, Youngstown, and Warren. It covers 3,590 acres with a maximum depth of 76 feet — making it one of Ohio’s deepest inland lakes. Its shoreline is lined with beech and maple trees, creating spectacular colour in the fall.
The Mill Creek Recreation Area provides camping, boating, and picnicking. Berlin Lake has a strong reputation for walleye fishing, with natural reproduction keeping the population healthy year after year. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, muskie, crappie, and bluegill are also plentiful. There are no horsepower restrictions, though five speed zones apply in different areas of the lake.
- Surface area: ~3,590 acres
- Maximum depth: 76 feet
- Shoreline: ~70 miles
- Best for: Walleye fishing, boating, fall foliage views
7. Shenango River Lake — Built for Flood Control
Shenango River Lake is a man-made reservoir built to provide flood protection for the Shenango River valley. It covers approximately 3,550 acres with 76 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 25 feet, set within the scenic suburban Shenango Valley.
Beyond flood control, the lake draws picnickers, campers, and history enthusiasts. The ruins of the Erie Extension Canal are accessible on nearby project land, and the well-preserved Lock Number 10 can be seen near Sharpsville. The Kidd’s Mill Covered Bridge is another historic attraction worth the detour.
- Surface area: ~3,550 acres
- Maximum depth: 25 feet
- Shoreline: 76 miles
- Best for: History lovers, picnicking, casual boating
8. Senecaville Lake — A Muskingum Watershed Gem
Also known as Seneca Lake, Senecaville Lake covers approximately 3,550 acres framed by 45 miles of scenic shoreline between Guernsey and Noble counties, just south of Cambridge. Built by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1938, it is now managed by the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD).
The lake is a well-rounded recreational destination — popular for boating, fishing, camping, hiking, bicycling, hunting, and swimming. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the surrounding park hosts a packed calendar of events and activities. Largemouth bass, crappies, bluegills, bullheads, channel catfish, and saugeye all thrive here. Note that boat motors are limited to 299 horsepower.
- Surface area: ~3,550 acres
- Maximum depth: 28 feet
- Shoreline: ~45 miles
- Best for: Multi-activity family trips, bass fishing
9. Buckeye Lake — Ohio’s First State Park
Created in 1826 as a canal feeder, Buckeye Lake is considered one of America’s first significant man-made reservoirs. When the Ohio Department of Natural Resources was established in 1949, it became the state’s very first official state park. Today it covers approximately 3,100 acres.
Because the lake’s average depth is less than 6 feet, it freezes quickly in winter — creating a fantastic ice fishing opportunity. Fingerling saugeye and hybrid striped bass are stocked annually. Bluegill, crappie, muskellunge, walleye, largemouth bass, perch, and catfish are all present. There are no horsepower restrictions, making it popular with speedboats as well as kayakers and canoes. Nine paved launch ramps and 135 rentable seasonal docks are available.
- Surface area: ~3,100 acres
- Maximum depth: 14 feet
- Shoreline: 65 miles
- Best for: Ice fishing, high-speed boating, history
10. Salt Fork Lake — Clear Water and Record Muskie
Salt Fork Lake is set within Ohio’s largest state park in rural Guernsey County, offering 2,952 acres of clear recreational water. It’s one of the most all-round lakes in the state, with opportunities for boating, sailing, swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, hunting, golfing, and water sports all available in the surrounding park.
Salt Fork holds a remarkable distinction: it produced the Ohio state record for the largest muskellunge ever caught. Jerrold Seibert’s 2000 catch measured 54 inches and weighed 44 pounds. Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, walleye, and muskie are the most commonly targeted species. Two marinas supply fishing equipment, boating services, and dock and boat rentals. Ten public launch ramps make access easy.
- Surface area: ~2,952 acres
- Maximum depth: 35 feet
- Shoreline: 65 miles
- Best for: Muskie fishing, horseback riding, golf
11. Caesar Creek Lake — Deep Water Near Dayton
Caesar Creek Lake is one of Ohio’s deepest inland lakes at 115 feet maximum depth, covering approximately 2,830 acres about 15 miles southeast of Dayton and 30 miles northeast of Cincinnati. The US Army Corps of Engineers built it in the 1970s; it is now co-managed with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
The lake’s seven-mile length and 40 miles of shoreline support boating, fishing, swimming, water skiing, and sailing. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, black and white crappie, carp, catfish, saugeye, and muskellunge all populate the water. Fossil hunters also flock to the area — exposed limestone beds around the lake are rich in ancient marine fossils.
- Surface area: ~2,830 acres
- Maximum depth: 115 feet
- Shoreline: 40 miles
- Best for: Deep-water fishing, fossil hunting, sailing
12. West Branch Lake — A Reservoir Without Horsepower Limits
West Branch Lake sits on the west branch of the Mahoning River in Portage County, covering 2,650 acres with a 40-mile coastline featuring numerous forks and bays. There are no horsepower restrictions, making it a favourite among boaters and water sports enthusiasts. Six boat ramps provide easy access.
West Branch Lake State Park is open year-round for boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing, with camping, hiking, hunting, bicycling, and horseback riding also available. Tiger musky, northern pike, striped bass, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and walleye are the most sought-after catches. Yellow perch, crappie, bluegill, bullhead, and channel catfish round out the options.
- Surface area: ~2,650 acres
- Maximum depth: 25 feet
- Shoreline: 40 miles
- Best for: High-speed boating, tiger musky fishing, equestrian camping
13. Tappan Lake — The Most Accessible Shoreline Fishing in the MWCD
Tappan Lake covers approximately 2,350 acres in Harrison County, between Cadiz and Uhrichsville. Managed by the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District, it is known for offering more shoreline fishing access than any other MWCD lake, with 47 miles of lakefront and handicapped-accessible boat launches.
The surrounding park offers six designated hiking trails, picnic spaces, campgrounds, cabins, and boat rental. Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, perch, sunfish, and saugeye all inhabit the lake. Note: a 299 horsepower limit is enforced on Tappan Lake.
- Surface area: ~2,350 acres
- Maximum depth: 28 feet
- Shoreline: 47 miles
- Best for: Shore fishing, hiking, cabin stays
14. Clendening Lake — Ohio’s Premier Bass Fishing Lake
Clendening Lake is widely regarded as Ohio’s top bass fishing lake. Covering approximately 1,800 acres with 44 miles of natural, largely undeveloped shoreline, it is one of the most serene lakes on this list. A 10 horsepower limit keeps the water calm and ideal for fishing.
A recent Ohio Division of Wildlife electrofishing survey found that over half of all bass sampled measured at least 12 inches, with 17% exceeding 15 inches. Channel catfish are equally impressive, with 60% of sampled fish measuring 16 inches or more. Flathead catfish lurking in the rocky lower end of the lake can tip the scales at 20 pounds. The full-service marina is the only commercial development on the shoreline.
- Surface area: ~1,800 acres
- Maximum depth: 34 feet
- Shoreline: 44 miles
- Best for: Bass fishing, flathead catfish, peaceful paddling
15. Lake Milton — A Century of History
Lake Milton sits on the Trumbull County border in northwest Ohio, offering 1,685 acres of productive fishing water surrounded by a 23-mile coastline. It is one of the more historic lakes on this list, with a 600-foot swimming beach, four picnic shelter houses, and no horsepower restrictions for motorboats.
Walleye, crappie, bluegill, largemouth and smallmouth bass, white bass, brown bullhead, channel catfish, yellow perch, and muskellunge all thrive here. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources manages and stocks the lake regularly. Two renovated public boat ramps and a marina selling fuel and seasonal dock spaces serve visiting boaters.
- Surface area: ~1,685 acres
- Maximum depth: 45 feet
- Shoreline: 23 miles
- Best for: Swimming, family picnics, walleye fishing
16. Atwood Lake — A Sailor’s Favourite
Atwood Lake in Dellroy, Ohio is widely considered one of the best lakes in the state for sailing and pleasure boating. Covering 1,540 acres with a 28-mile tree-lined coastline, it is located within 30 miles of both Akron and Canton. A 25 horsepower limit creates calm, sail-friendly conditions and attracts pontoon boats, fishing boats, canoes, and kayaks.
Two marinas offer boat sales, servicing, rentals, and docking. Atwood Lake Marina West has a restaurant open year-round. Largemouth bass, bluegill, northern pike, crappie, bullheads, channel catfish, yellow perch, and saugeye are all stocked and monitored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
- Surface area: ~1,540 acres
- Maximum depth: 34 feet
- Shoreline: 28 miles
- Best for: Sailing, pleasure boating, year-round dining
17. Delaware Lake — Sanctioned by the Flood Control Act of 1938
Delaware Lake was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1938 and covers approximately 1,330 acres near the city of Delaware, Ohio. Delaware State Park is open year-round, with unrestricted horsepower for boats and a designated swimming area. A marina on the property provides gasoline, fishing, and boating supplies.
Largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, and muskellunge are among the main game species. Waterfowl hunting along the lake is also authorized, with duck blinds distributed via a lottery system. Picnic areas with tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis along the shoreline.
- Surface area: ~1,330 acres
- Maximum depth: 12 feet
- Shoreline: 38 miles
- Best for: Bass fishing, waterfowl hunting, picnicking
18. Pleasant Hill Lake — Clean Air, Blue Water
Pleasant Hill Lake is a 783-acre man-made lake located near Perrysville in Ashland and Richland counties. Pleasant Hill Dam, built on the Clear Fork of the Mohican River, was completed in 1936 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for flood management purposes. The earth-fill dam stands 113 feet tall.
While not the most visited recreational lake in Ohio, Pleasant Hill offers a tranquil escape in a beautiful rural setting. Its clear water and clean surroundings make it a favourite for those seeking a quieter alternative to the state’s busier reservoirs.
- Surface area: ~783 acres
- Maximum depth: 17 feet
- Shoreline: ~28 miles
- Best for: Quiet escapes, scenic drives, relaxed fishing
19. Acton Lake — Recreation for All Ages
Acton Lake is located in Preble and Butler counties on Ohio’s southwestern frontier, roughly 7 miles north of Oxford, 40 miles northwest of Cincinnati, and 35 miles southwest of Dayton. Covering approximately 625 acres, it sits within Hueston Woods State Park and is a draw for families and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Boats with motors over 10 horsepower must travel at a zero-wake pace, keeping the water calm and safe. One launch ramp serves the lake, and 132 seasonal dock rentals are available. Boat and canoe rentals and fuel are on site.
- Surface area: ~625 acres
- Maximum depth: 18 feet
- Shoreline: 7 miles
- Best for: Family-friendly paddling, zero-wake boating
20. Apple Valley Lake — A Gated Lakeside Community
Apple Valley Lake is a gated community lake in Knox County covering approximately 512 acres with a maximum depth of 36 feet. Unlike most lakes on this list, access is restricted to property owners and their guests — but the lake is available for vacation rentals, making it a popular destination for families and couples seeking a private lakeside retreat.
Amenities within the community include a camping area, a community centre, a clubhouse, beaches, and a range of water activities. Guest permits can be arranged for property owners’ immediate family members.
- Surface area: ~512 acres
- Maximum depth: 36 feet
- Shoreline: 5 miles
- Best for: Private vacation rentals, lakeside retreats
Final Thoughts
Ohio has far more to offer lake lovers than most people realise. From the world-class fishing on Lake Erie and Mosquito Creek Lake to the serene bass-filled waters of Clendening Lake and the sailing paradise of Atwood Lake, there is a perfect Ohio lake for every type of outdoor adventure. Use this guide to plan your next trip — and don’t be surprised if one visit turns into many.
Which Ohio lake is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!
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