Clear Fork Reservoir Park wilderness guide
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 60 miles.

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, Ohio
⌖ 1.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mansfield, Ohio

Mansfield, Ohio offers accessible outdoor adventures with hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing. Explore its local parks, scenic trails, and waterways from spring into fall for a refreshing Midwestern nature experience.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Lucas, Ohio
⌖ 6.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lucas, Ohio

Lucas, Ohio, is a peaceful rural town perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, fishing, paddling, and horseback riding near Tar Hollow and Hocking State Forests. Enjoy quiet nature escapes and primitive camping in a less crowded setting.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Lexington, Ohio
⌖ 7.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lexington, Ohio

Lexington, Ohio offers outdoor lovers easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing in scenic state parks and natural preserves. Enjoy peaceful trails, river adventures, and family-friendly campgrounds throughout spring to fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Bellville, Ohio
⌖ 10.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellville, Ohio

Bellville, Ohio offers quiet outdoor fun with hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing in a scenic rural setting. Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed escape close to nature and small-town charm.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Shelby, Ohio
⌖ 10.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shelby, Ohio

Shelby, Ohio offers a peaceful outdoor experience with gentle hiking, quiet biking routes, fishing spots, and paddling nearby Mohican Reservoir. Ideal for travelers seeking a low-key adventure surrounded by nature and rural charm.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Crestline, Ohio
⌖ 11.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crestline, Ohio

Crestline, Ohio offers quiet access to hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing near scenic state parks. Perfect for travelers seeking easy outdoor escapes amid Ohio woodlands and reservoirs.

Spring through Fall
Explore 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.

Autumn Access at Lehner’s: Full-Day Farm Admission in Radnor
ADVEXPEDITION
Radnor, Ohio
FarmADV Bookable

Autumn Access at Lehner’s: Full-Day Farm Admission in Radnor

General-admission Farm Day tickets at Lehner's Pumpkin Farm run Sep 20–Oct 26 with weekend all-day access, select weekday evenings and special Friday hours—this guide explains the schedule and what to pack.

FarmPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Riverside Sites Where the Black and Clear Forks Meet the Mohican
ADVEXPEDITION
Loudonville, Ohio
CanoeADV Bookable

Riverside Sites Where the Black and Clear Forks Meet the Mohican

Camp River Run in Loudonville offers off-river sites for tents, pop-ups and RVs 25' & under with 20- or 30-amp electric hookups; this guide gathers the on-site amenities, rules and arrival logistics you need to plan a stay.

CanoePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Riverside Shade on the Mohican: River Run’s Off-River Sites A 1–16
ADVEXPEDITION
Loudonville, Ohio
CanoeADV Bookable

Riverside Shade on the Mohican: River Run’s Off-River Sites A 1–16

A practical guide to River Run Campground’s Off River Sites A 1–16 in Loudonville — sites for tents, pop-ups and RVs (32' & under) with 20/30A electric hookups, on the banks of the Black and Clear Forks that form the Mohican River.

CanoePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip