Deer Creek Lake Day Use
Deer Creek Lake Day Use Area is located just below the dam at Deer Creek Lake, 35 miles southwest of Columbus, Ohio. The lake provides an ideal location for boating, fishing, camping, hiking and hunting.
Deer Creek offers two group day-use picnic shelters located below the dam, 40 yards from a creek popular for fishing. Both are accessible and can accommodate up to 100 guests each.
Need to Know
Day-use only, no overnight camping.
No swimming or wading in the outflow creek.
Park is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm; fishing is allowed after 10 p.m.
Parking area, playground and open space is open to the public; reservations are not needed to use the picnic shelters.
- For more information, contact the Deer Creek Lake Office at 740-869-2243
- Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
Natural Features
Deer Creek Lake is situated among gently rolling hills in south central Ohio. The area is forested with a variety of hardwoods, including oak, hickory, elm, black walnut, ash, maple and sycamore.
An abundance of wildlife inhabits the area around the lake, including ring-necked pheasant, cottontail rabbit, squirrel, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, raccoon, mink, red fox, skunk, coyote and beaver. Red-tailed hawks, Northern harriers and American kestrels are also common sights.
Recreation
The lake is a prime location for boating and swimming. Boat ramps and docks are scattered at various parks around the lake.
Fishing is a very popular activity. Bluegill, white crappie, channel catfish, saugeye, white, largemouth, smallmouth and rock bass, carp, bullhead and flathead catfish are the major sport species found in the lake.
Contact Information
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21897 DEER CREEK RD. MT. STERLING OH 43143
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 740-869-2243
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Columbus, Ohio, take Highway 62 south to Mt. Sterling. Turn south on Route 207 and continue for 8 miles to the lake. Turn at the intersection; picnic shelter is on Crownover Mill Road.
