Jackson Lake State Park

Jackson Lake State Park is a natural area spanning more than 100 acres with a lake of roughly 100 acres in southeastern Ohio. Forested hillsides and water channels create distinct zones for different activities and walks.

The region became a center for iron smelting in the 1800s, with furnaces transforming raw ore into metal. The Jefferson Iron Furnace operated here and supplied cannon production during the Civil War years.

The region held deep roots for Native American peoples, whose presence remains visible in earthen mounds and rock carvings scattered across the landscape. These marks continue to shape how visitors experience the land today.

The park provides camping spots, boat ramps, swimming areas, and fishing locations spread across the grounds. Pathways and facilities are laid out to accommodate different visitor interests and abilities.

Ruins of the Jefferson Iron Furnace remain visible on the grounds and tell the industrial story of this place. Walking past these stone structures, you can see how workers once processed iron ore at scale.

Location: Jackson County

Inception: 1979

Website: https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/jackson-lake-state-park

GPS coordinates: 38.89890,-82.60140

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:41