Michael J. Kirwan Damsite Recreation Area

Michael J Kirwan Lake

The Michael J. Kirwan Dam Site Recreation Area provides an attractive setting where visitors can spend the day picnicking, fishing, hiking or enjoying nature's beauty. The Michael J. Kirwan Dam Site Recreation Area is located adjacent to the Visitor Center on Wayland Road. The area provides easy access to the causeway of the dam --a popular hiking, biking, and fishing destination-- and includes exercise equipment, a swing set, and gardens on site.

The shelter is reservable from May to September and is first-come-first-serve the remainder of the year. The shelter is located within walking distance of the dam and electric, tables, and grills are included. Reservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777

Need to Know

The vault restroom is currently CLOSED due to construction. Next nearest restrooms are located at the East Boat Ramp (approx. 1 mile away)
Shelter reservations are set up for half-days (AM: 9am-3pm; PM: 3pm-9pm). To reserve a full day, you will need a reservation for Michael J. Kirwan Damsite Shelter AM and Michael J. Kirwan Damsite Shelter PM.
This is a day use area only; no overnight camping is allowed.
The picnic shelter is approximately 115 feet from the parking lot.
DRIVING OFF ROADWAYS TO LOAD AND UNLOAD AT THE SHELTER IS NOT PERMITTED.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ARE PROHIBITED.
Shelter should be vacated by 9:00 p.m.
If not reserved, the shelter is available for free on a first-come, first-served basis.
Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations governs the public use of water resource developmental projects administered by the Corps of Engineers. Visitors are bound by these Title 36 regulations. They are posted on bulletin boards throughout the park.

Natural Features

Surrounded by the lush, green farmland of Northern Ohio, Michael J. Kirwan Dam & Reservoir provides miles of clean waters and scenic countryside for your enjoyment. The reservoir is located on the West Branch of the Mahoning River and covers over 3,000 acres. The shores of the reservoir boast shady hardwood forests where deer, turkey, and other wildlife are plentiful and the lake provides excellent opporunities for fishing. The numerous deep feeder channels and shallow shoreline provide habitat for a variety of fish species including walleye, muskie, striped bass, large and smallmouth bass, crappie, and bluegills.

Nearby Attractions

There are 1.3 miles of hiking trails on Corps managed lands, including the Discovery Recreation Area Trail System located off Kestrel Way, and the Tailwaters Trail located on Wayland Road. The wildlife platform is located on the Discovery Trail. The Buckeye Trail loop now crosses the dam and encompasses the entire lake for more information on the Buckeye Trail, visit www.buckeyetrail.org. The ODNR maintains several other hiking, mountain bike and bridle trails as well as a horse camp area.

Recreation

Visitors to the park will find numerous, well maintained facilities available for fishing, hiking, picnicking, camping, boating, and other year-round outdoor activities. Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the rich history and fascinating features of the Visitor Center located on Wayland Road. A series of programs are offered highlighting the natural, cultural and historical significance of the reservoir and its surrounding area. You may also experience our unique wildlife platform, where you can see the flora and fauna of the area and maybe even catch a glimpse of wild turkeys.

The reservoir and the majority of its surrounding lands are leased by the Corps of Engineers to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources as West Branch State Park.

Contact Information

Physical

5767 Wayland Road Wayland OH 44285

Phone Number

For campground inquiries, please call: 330-358-2622

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Driving Directions

From East or West: Take Exit 48 (State Route 225) off of interstate 76 and travel north 2 miles to Cable Line Rd. There will be a left turn lane there and a cemetary on right. Turn left on Cable Line Road. Go 1 mile to Wayland Rd. and turn right. Travel approximately 3/4 mile on Wayland Rd., the Visitor Center will be located on your left side. From North: Take State Route 14 South, turn left onto State Route 5 East and travel 8 miles. You will pass Ravenna Arsenal on the left side. Turn right on Wayland Rd. and travel approximately 2 miles. The Visitor Center will be located on your right side.

Available Campsites

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