Lake Milton's 1,685-acre reservoir offers the best in water-related recreation. Boating, swimming and fishing are popular. The scenic shoreline provides a habitat for waterfowls and shorebirds for visitors to enjoy.

History

Before settlement of Ohio, dense forests covered much of the region. The forests were inhabited by Indians and wild animals including wolf, elk, bear and mountain lion. Indian trails and rivers provided access to the area. When settlers started moving west, they traveled the same routes as the Indians. Historic records recall only a few incidents between settlers and the Indians.

John and Mary Young traveled to this area from New York and in 1797 platted a town on the bank of the Mahoning River. In 1803, the Youngs left the area due to homesickness, but the town (Youngstown) still bears their name. Shortly after the Young's departure, iron, coal and limestone were discovered in the nearby hills. In 1826, the first coal mine opened in the valley. After Lake Superior's extensive iron ore deposits were discovered, the Mahoning Valley steel industry grew at a rapid rate. Union Iron and Steel Company, the first Mahoning steel plant, opened in 1892. Additional mills and fabricating plants drew immigrants of all nationalities to the valley.

In 1910, the city of Youngstown acquired 3,416 acres in Milton Township to construct a reservoir to be used as a water supply. A 2,800-foot dam was completed in 1913 impounding 1,640 acres on the Mahoning River. Lake Milton included a small amusement park at Craig Beach with a swimming beach, roller coaster, boat trips and a busy midway. The east side of the lake included taverns, a dance hall and a skating rink.

During the 1970s, mounting problems with the Lake Milton dam demanded attention. Considering safety factors, the gates were opened in the spring of 1986 and the lake was drained. State assistance was sought and shortly thereafter repairs to the dam began. Within two years, the dam was ready to hold water again.

Lake Milton was officially dedicated as a state park in 1988.

Activities

Archery

Open year-round, the archery range features five targets and is located on the north end of the lake on Northeast River Road.

Boating

This 1,685-acre lake is designated for unlimited horsepower. Boaters have access to a section of the Mahoning River at the south end of the lake.

Three launch ramps and seasonal dock rentals are available. Fuel and 100 seasonal docks are available at the marina.

Fishing

Fishing is popular and anglers enjoy nice catches of walleye, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish. Anglers may also catch smallmouth bass, brown bullhead, yellow perch, white bass and muskellunge. A valid Ohio fishing license is required.

Hunting

Hunting is permitted in designated areas. A valid Ohio hunting license is required.

Picnicking

Four shelterhouses can be reserved online or by calling (866) 644-6727.

Swimming

The 600-foot beach has restrooms, change booths, showers, playground, basketball court and sand volleyball court. Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Please exercise caution while swimming at the beach. Pets are NOT allowed on the beach.

Trails

Hiking Trails

Nature Trail - 1.25 Miles - Easy, northwest side of lake near the dam
Paved Trail - 1.0 Mile - east side of the Lake Milton, near the marina.

Biking Trails

Mountain biking trail - 3 miles - across from Carson's Landing on Ellsworth Road, south end of lake Milton.

Winter Recreation

Under the proper conditions, park visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing

A basketball court and sand volleyball court are located at the beach
A playground is also available at the beach for youngsters