THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Regional Park · Ohio

Clear Fork Reservoir Park

Clear Fork Reservoir Park offers a scenic outdoor retreat in central Ohio distinct for its large reservoir, extensive trails, and diverse recreational opportunities ranging from hiking to fishing.

Regional Park3,4004+ Trails

Designation

Regional Park

Total Wilderness Area

3,400

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Clear Fork Reservoir Park

Clear Fork Reservoir Park offers a scenic outdoor retreat in central Ohio distinct for its large reservoir, extensive trails, and diverse recreational opportunities ranging from hiking to fishing.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Clear Fork Reservoir Park is a 3,400-acre park located near Mansfield, Ohio, centered around the Clear Fork Reservoir, a 1,179-acre man-made lake primarily used for flood control and recreation. The park's landscape combines forested areas, open fields, wetlands, and shoreline habitats, supporting a wide range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and various fish species. Established in the mid-20th century to provide flood mitigation for the region, it has since become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking on miles of well-maintained trails, mountain biking on multi-use paths, fishing for bass and catfish, boating, and picnicking in developed day-use areas. The park also offers camping facilities, both primitive and developed, enhancing the visitor experience for those looking to extend their stay. Clear Fork Reservoir Park is recognized for its natural beauty and accessibility for a wide range of outdoor interests, attracting local families as well as day visitors. The combination of water-based activities on the reservoir with woodland and field habitats makes it an appealing location for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Seasonal events and regular maintenance by park staff ensure it remains a safe and attractive site throughout the year.

Field Guide · Regional Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Clear Fork Reservoir Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Wandering Through Sandusky Hollow★ 7.2⌖ 12 miHiking
Sandusky Hollow

Wandering Through Sandusky Hollow

Explore Sandusky Hollow in Ashland, Ohio. Enjoy peaceful walks in this serene area popular for hiking and birdwatching. Ideal for nature photography, this quiet spot provides a great escape with its lush landscape and vibrant seasons.

Explore Nature at Mohican State Park★ 6.5⌖ 17 miHiking
Mohican State Park

Explore Nature at Mohican State Park

Explore Mohican State Park for diverse hiking trails, including parts of the Buckeye Trail. Enjoy birdwatching and canoeing opportunities. Visit in spring or fall for optimal conditions and scenic views. Located near Loudonville, OH, this park is a family-friendly escape.

Waterfalls & Serenity at Honey Run Park★ 7.6⌖ 30 miHiking
Honey Run Park

Waterfalls & Serenity at Honey Run Park

Visit Honey Run Park near Howard, Ohio, featuring an easy hike to a beautiful waterfall. Enjoy family-friendly trails, perfect for nature observation and photography. Best in spring.

Nature's Gem: Honey Run Waterfall★ 6.8⌖ 30 miHiking
Honey Run Waterfall

Nature's Gem: Honey Run Waterfall

Explore Honey Run Waterfall in Knox County, Ohio. This moderate hike features a charming waterfall, ideal for hiking and picnicking. Best visited in spring and fall, the site provides a serene escape and opportunities for wildlife observation.

Discover the Serenity of Sheedy Sanctuary★ 4.5⌖ 31 miBirdwatching
Sheedy Sanctuary

Discover the Serenity of Sheedy Sanctuary

Explore Sheedy Sanctuary in Centerburg, OH, a quiet spot perfect for birdwatching and photography. Enjoy easy nature walks amid diverse flora and fauna. Visit in spring and fall for vibrant views.

BirdwatchingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Clear Fork Reservoir - a 1,179-acre lake offering boating and fishing✦ Multiple trail systems with hiking and mountain biking options✦ Wildlife viewing opportunities including migratory birds and white-tailed deer✦ Campgrounds with lake views and access to both developed and primitive sites
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Clear Fork Reservoir Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Clear Fork Reservoir Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Clear Fork Reservoir Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; fees apply for camping site reservations and certain boating permits

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Clear Fork Reservoir Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Clear Fork Reservoir Campground

Campground near the lake featuring electric and non-electric sites, restrooms, and shower facilities; popular for lake access.

Primitive Forest Campground

Rustic camping with no hookups located deeper in wooded areas of the park, ideal for those seeking secluded experiences.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Clear Fork Reservoir Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Mansfield
⌖ 1.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mansfield, Ohio

A Midwestern town with accessible parks, scenic waterways, and a growing network of trails, offering easy outdoor escapes with local charm.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Lucas
⌖ 6.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lucas, Ohio

A quiet rural town offering serene outdoor experiences with access to nearby forests, trails, and waterways ideal for nature lovers.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Lexington
⌖ 7.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lexington, Ohio

A charming small town offering easy access to diverse outdoor recreation including hiking, paddling, and biking in nearby natural areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Bellville
⌖ 10.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellville, Ohio

A quiet Midwest town offering easy access to peaceful hiking, paddling, and cycling adventures in a rural setting with nearby protected natural areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Shelby
⌖ 10.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shelby, Ohio

A quiet Midwestern town offering access to gentle outdoor activities against a backdrop of farmland, small parks, and nearby natural areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Crestline
⌖ 11.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crestline, Ohio

A quiet Midwestern town offering gentle outdoor recreation with nearby state parks and water access for paddlers and hikers.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Clear Fork Reservoir Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.