Located on Ohio's northeastern shoreline, 698-acre Geneva State Park reflects the character and charisma of Lake Erie. The shimmering expanse of the lake lures vacationers who enjoy fishing and boating. Swimmers rejoice in the beautiful sand beach while nature enthusiasts retreat to the park's freshwater marshes and estuaries associated with the lake.
History:
Geneva State Park is situated along the Lake Erie shoreline. Erie, meaning wildcat or "it is long-tailed," is derived from the tribal name of Indians who inhabited the area until 1655.
The lake was a principal avenue of transportation for Indians and frontiersmen alike. Overlooked by French settlers traveling west because of a shorter overland route linking Lake Ontario and the western Great Lakes, French trappers eventually established trade routes on Lake Erie in the mid-1600s. Since that time, the lake has figured prominently in Ohio's history and growth.
By the mid 1800s, the state's canal system was open and goods could be shipped from Ohio's rural farms to populous eastern cities using well-developed inland canals. Ports were established at Toledo and Cleveland to accommodate the growing shipping industry. Freight from these ports was shipped east across the lake to New York.
Today, the Saint Lawrence Seaway enables the Midwest to trade directly with many nations. Freighters of international registry carry corn, wheat, soybeans and other commodities from our region's diverse industries to many foreign markets. New trade avenues opened on Lake Erie contribute to the prosperity of Ohio's strong agricultural and industrial economies.
Acquisition of land to create the park began in 1964 with the purchase of Chestnut Grove. Land acquisitions continued through 1972. The last parcels added were the cottage and campground areas.
The park is located within the village of Geneva-on-the-Lake, which was Ohio's first summer resort.
Camping:
74 electric sites
19 full hook-up sites
7 non-electric sites
Heated shower-house
Flush toilets
Coin-operated Laundry
Pet are allowed at designated sites
Basketball and sand volleyball courts, playground
Camp office loans games and sporting equipment to registered campers
Fish cleaning house
Activities:
Archery Range
An archery range is located within the park on Padanarum Road. A restroom is located nearby.
Boating
A 6-lane boat ramp at the Geneva Marina provides easy access to Lake Erie's central basin. The marina features a canteen and concession area which supplies gasoline, boating essentials and bait, along with 383 docks for seasonal rental. Transient dock rental is available. The east breakwall of the marina is capped with a sidewalk.
Fishing
Lake Erie is known as the walleye capital of the world. In addition to great catches of walleye, the lake offers yellow perch, channel catfish and steelhead trout. Geneva Marina is designated as a small boat harbor and is a certified Clean Marina. Private charter fishing boats are available. A valid Ohio fishing license is required.
Hunting
Hunting is permitted in designated areas from October 15 through February 28 annually. A valid Ohio hunting license is required.
Picnicking
The Crabapple Picnic Area features two shelterhouses with electric and water, restrooms with flush toilets, volleyball court and horseshoe pit. The shelterhouses are available for reservation online or by calling (866) 644-6727.
Swimming
A 300-foot swimming beach adorns the shoreline of Lake Erie. The entire length of the park overlooks Lake Erie for approximately two miles with access to the lake provided at various points along the lakefront.
Trails
Six miles of multi-use trails traverse the park and are used by hikers, snowmobilers, cross-country skiers and hunters. Two miles of paved trails for available for visitors on non-motorized bikes.
Winter Recreation
Under the proper conditions, park visitors can enjoy a 4.5-mile snowmobiling trail, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.
