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State Parks: Van Buren

12259 Township Road 218
Van Buren, OH
(419) 832-7662 *Get Directions

Correspondence and Phone Inquiries
c/o Mary Jane Thurston State Park
1-466 State Route 65
McClure, OH 43534-9711

Location & description:

Van Buren State Park offers a quiet retreat with fishing and picnicking opportunities. The woodlands are a small but valued refuge in the rich agricultural land of northwestern Ohio.

Camping:

There is a multi-use campground at the east end of the park with non-electric campsites for general camping as well as horseman's camping. Tables, pit latrines and a dump station are provided. A primitive, walk-in, youth-group camping area is located in the southeast section of the park and is available by reservation. Pet camping is permitted on designated sites.

  • 38 non-electric sites
  • Tables, pit latrines and a dump station provided
  • A primitive, walk-in, youth-group camping area is available by reservation
  • Pet camping is permitted on designated sites

Boating:

Van Buren Lake provides excellent boating opportunities for rowboats, canoes and boats with electric motors only.

Fishing & hunting:

Good fishing is available. Catches of largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, bullhead, bluegill and carp await the skilled angler. Park property east of TR 229 is designated for bow hunting only in accordance with state laws.

  • Fish species include largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, bullhead, bluegill and carp
  • Park property east of TR 229 is designated for hunting in accordance with state laws
  • Valid Ohio fishing and/or hunting license required

Trails:

Hiking trails circle the lake. Hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers are welcome on 6 miles of multiple-use trails traversing steep ravines and gentler terrain in scenic woodlands.

  • 10 mile hiking trail
  • 6 miles multi-use trails

Picnic areas:

  • 4 picnic areas
  • 4 shelterhouses are available on a first-come, first-served basis

Things to do