Shawnee State Park
This post contains links to affiliate websites, such as Amazon, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you using these links.
Shawnee State Park is located in southern Ohio. The serenity of nature awaits you in the hills and valleys of this picturesque landscape, part of the 63,000-acre Shawnee State Forest.
Visit Shawnee State Park
Shawnee State Park sits in the foothills of the Appalachians, where stream erosion has carved valleys out of the Appalachian Plateau and created the rugged terrain that is now nicknamed ‘The Little Smokies‘.
In its hardwood forests that were once the hunting grounds of the Shawnee tribes, you will find interesting and unique flora, such as wildflowers and rare orchids. Whitetail deer, wild turkey, and raccoon live here, and a sighting of a bobcat or black bear happens on a rare occurrence. Birders will especially enjoy the various songbirds heard throughout the woods.
The park is home to the endangered Timber Rattlesnake. It is a docile snake, so it is easy to give it space and steer clear if you encounter one.
A marina provides access to the Ohio River, and there are two lakes totaling 68 acres, Roosevelt and Turkey Creek.
Trails at Shawnee State Park
There are ten hiking trails at Shawnee State Park, ranging from easy trails to more difficult, rugged trails.
Lampblack Trail
This 1.5-mile trail will take you through an oak-hickory forest. The trailhead starts at the end of the lodge parking lot. Follow the purple triangles.
Lake Trail
This 0.8-mile trail will give you a great view of Turkey Creek Lake, and a bench on the path will give you a view into a beaver’s lodge. The trail starts at the nature center, or you can access it at the Back Pack Trail parking lot. Follow the aquamarine triangles.
Lodge Beach Trail
This 0.5-mile trail is a steep grade from the lodge to the beach. Follow the fluorescent green triangles.
Knighton Nature Trail
This 2.9-mile trail has many varieties of mushrooms and wildflowers. You can see Turkey Creek Lake at the lowest and highest points in the park on the Knighton Nature Trail. Follow the red triangles.
Turkey Creek Nature Center Trail
This 0.5-mile loop is covered in crushed gravel, making it wheelchair, stroller, and family-friendly. There are interpretive signs along the way that tell the story of the hemlock forest. You will also have views of Turkey Creek. Follow the bright green triangles.
Park Loop Trail
This 5-mile trail takes you through many ecosystems and connects to other trails. You will achieve the park’s highest peaks. Wear good hiking boots, and bring water and snacks. Follow the blue triangles.
Lookout Trail
This 1.5-mile trail has a steep climb and a steep descent. The historic trail was built in 1938 and features beautiful views of Lake Roosevelt. Follow the hot pink triangles.
Campground Loop Trail
This 0.5-mile trail is ideal for families with small children. It starts at the small loop and ends at the large loop at the campground. Follow the coral triangles.
Shawnee Forest Day Hike Trail West Loop West Loop
This trail is 4.6 miles. Follow the blue blazes.
Shawnee Forest Day Hike Trail West Loop East Loop
This trail is 7.2 miles. Follow the blue blazes.
Activities and Facilities at Shawnee State Park
There is a long list of activities available at Shawnee State Park. Not only are there plenty of trails to hike on, but there are many water activities available, too, having access to the Ohio River and two large lakes. No matter your interest, you are sure to find something you enjoy!
Backpacking
The Shawnee Backpack Trail has over 40 miles of trail that wind through the wilderness. There are shorter, 17-mile and 23-mile options. You can camp in 7 designated areas while backpacking. Register at the trailhead in the parking lot.
Storybook Trail
A 0.5-mile easy trail that tells a story in stages. It is located near the river area of the park.
Birding
Birding is best in late April and early May as birds are migrating through the area, and some stay to nest. You might see a Cerulean or a Kentucky warbler if you pay close attention.
Besides walking through the forest, another way to encounter the over 100 bird species is to grab a pair of binoculars, take the scenic auto tour, and stop on the quiet back roads to listen for their beautiful songs.
Boating
There is a full-service marina off U.S. 52 that offers 72 docks with access to the Ohio River, including one with ADA accessibility.
Electric-motored and hand-powered boats can be used on Roosevelt Lake, while gas-motored boats at idle speed are allowed on Turkey Creek Lake. Both lakes have a launch ramp.
You can rent canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rowboats, and pedal boats at the camp store.
Fishing
Roosevelt and Turkey Creek lakes have a nice stock of crappie, trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish.
Note: Ohio fishing regulations apply, and a valid Ohio fishing license is necessary.
Dog Park
A dog park can be found at the Ohio River campground.
Swimming
There are two public beaches, one on each of the lakes, and there are designated areas for swimming. A splash pad is located at the Ohio River campground.
Pets are not allowed.
Please use caution when swimming, as beaches are not guarded.
Mountain Biking
A mountain biking trail system is now available. Park at the lodge and ride toward the playground to the marked trailhead.
- High Meadow – 0.6-mile, easy
- High Meadow Gap Pass – 0.3-mile, intermediate
- Horseshoe – 0.4-mile, intermediate
- Cabin Fever – 0.6-mile loop, intermediate
- Lampblack – 1-mile loop, intermediate
- Down & Out – 0.6-mile
Archery
An archery range with targets at 20, 30, 40, and 50 yards is available to use. Bring your own equipment, and use field tips only.
Disc Golf
A disc golf course can be found near Turkey Lake. Parking at the beach lot.
Horseback Riding
There are two trails, Lampblack Bridle Trail and Mackletree Bridle Trail. Primitive equestrian camping and more trails are nearby at Shawnee State Forest.
Hunting
Hunting is not permitted. It is, however, allowed at the nearby state forest.
Camping
There are 107 campsites featuring electric and non-electric sites for tents or trailers. They are located at Roosevelt Lake and by the Ohio River. Two camper cabins are also available.
Heated showers, waste disposal, flushing toilets, and laundry facilities are on site.
Pets are welcome at some locations.
Picnicking
Picnic tables and grills are located throughout the park in scenic and secluded areas. You must take out what you bring in. There are no garbage cans available.
Reservable Shelters
There are two historic shelters on Roosevelt Lake that can be reserved. They have electricity, grills, and picnic tables.
A meeting room at the marina can also be reserved. It will hold 40 people and is equipped with heat/AC, a kitchen, and restrooms. It is not ADA-compliant.
Reservations can be made online or by calling 866-644-6727.
More To Do
- Miniature golf
- Volleyball and basketball courts
- Horseshoe pits
- Playground
- Tennis courts
- Shuffleboard
- Geocaches and Earth Caches are located in the park
Winter Activities
You can go sledding near the park office on the lodge road when weather permits.
Information About Shawnee State Park
There is a printable and downloadable map available for Shawnee State Park. The park is open daily, 6 am to 11 pm, but visitors may use the park outside of these hours, too.
Cindy’s Insider Ohio Tips
I love the trails at Shawnee State Park, there is a trail size for every level! Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll around the lake or train for the Appalachian Trail, there is a trail for you! I recommend staying at the Lodge, their newly renovated rooms are very nice.
Where is Shawnee State Park Located?
- Address: 4404 State Route 125, West Portsmouth, Ohio 45663
- Phone: 740-858-6652 | Website | Facebook | Instagram
Directions Map to Shawnee State Park
Let’s Visit Shawnee State Park
Have you visited Shawnee State Park? We want to know what you thought! What was your favorite activity when you were there? Leave a comment below and share your experience.
If you are looking for more things to do in Portsmouth Ohio, we suggest Otway Bridge and White Gravel Mines Christmas Caves. Be sure to call in for a break and a bite to eat at Lofts Coffee Company and Roastery, and if you are looking to stay a while longer, check out Shawnee State Park Lodge.
If you love to visit Ohio State Parks, Ohio Metro Parks, or Ohio State Nature Preserves, be sure to check out Scioto Trail State Park and Mary Jane Thurston State Park! Ohio is home to many species of wildlife! Check out our article on Snakes in Ohio, and let us know if you find any while you are exploring the forest!
Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc, are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at [email protected], and we can get it updated.
To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.