West Branch State Park is a public recreation area located east of Ravenna, Ohio, on the west branch of the Mahoning River. The park encompasses more than 5,000 acres of land and 2,650 acres of water. West Branch State Park's large lake with its many forks and coves is extremely popular with fishermen, boaters and swimmers. The park's meadows and woodlots provide an excellent backdrop for camping, hiking and horseback riding.
History of the Area:
West Branch State Park is located on the west branch of the Mahoning River in Portage County. The river was named for the Delaware Indian word mahonink meaning "at the salt lick." In early days, a salt works was located southeast of present-day Warren along the river. The salt, which attracted a variety of wildlife, was harvested by Indians and early settlers.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers constructed the Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir in 1965. The reservoir was developed for recreation, water supply, flood control, and fish and wildlife management. West Branch State Park was officially opened in 1966. The park offers swimming, fishing, camping, boating, 14 miles of hiking trails, 20 miles of bridle trails, and 12 miles of mountain biking trails.
Boating:
The 2,650-acre lake is designated for unlimited horsepower. A no-wake zone extends 300 feet from all shorelines. The entire area west of Rock Spring Road causeway is also a no-wake zone.One launch ramp in the campground provides access to the lake
Camping:
West Branch State Park offers a large campground with more than 200 sites and numerous amenities including a beach and boat launch. Pets are permitted on all sites.
Full hook-up and 50-amp electric sites
Heated showers, flush toilets, laundry facilities, and a trailer dump station
Camp store sells firewood and supplies (330) 296-3239
Games and sporting equipment available for loan to registered campers
Swimming:
The park offers a 700-foot sand beach with restrooms, changing booths, outdoor showers, and vending machines. Picnic tables and charcoal grills available for public use. Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Pets are NOT permitted on swimming beaches.
Hiking:
The park offers 14 miles of hiking trails on mostly natural surfaces:
Jay Lake - 0.6 Mile - Moderate, North of Esworthy Road near the camp overflow parking lot
Deer Run - 1 Mile - Moderate, North of Esworthy Road near the camp overflow parking lot
Wild Cherry - 1 Mile - Moderate, South of Esworthy Road, near the Park Office parking lot
Club Moss - 0.8 Mile - Moderate, South of Esworthy Road, near the camp overflow parking lot
WEST BRANCH STATE PARK
5570 Esworthy Rd
Ravenna, Ohio 44266 (lat:41.1404 lon:-81.1393) map location
Phone: (330) 296-3239 Reservations: 866-644-6727
West Branch Park Website
Park Map
Campsite Map
OHCRA Reserved Sites: 65, 68, 70 Harold : 71 Laura : 72