What could make Ohio's Great Lake shore even greater? How about a state park with beautiful beach areas and incredible attractions like tennis courts and an amphitheater? At Maumee Bay, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources offers these and a whole lot more!
Whether you're into summers full of boating and biking, or winter activities like sledding and cross-country skiing, this Ohio State Park is sure to please. Located north of Oregon, Ohio, just east of the Toledo area, Maumee is also an excellent destination for business retreats, thanks to its Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center.
No matter your reason for visiting this Midwest treasure, we hope the following guide helps you plan the best trip imaginable!
Maumee Bay State Park
More like beaches, plural. Maumee has two sandy shores to choose from and designated swimming beach areas. The ODNR also maintains modern, refreshing facilities that include shower houses and flush toilets.
Maumee's challenging golf course greens are loaded with enough bunkers and water hazards to make you snap your clubs in half and stomp back to the parking lot. We jest, of course! On the serious side, the park has an excellent course with a PGA-certified professional on hand at its pro shop.
Camping Options
RELATED: Salt Fork State Park: Ohio's Sprawling Outdoor Oasis
Campers will be happy to know the park has a smattering of campgrounds right off the main State Park Road. In addition to some sites with full-hookups, Maumee also has a handful of yurts for rent. However, suppose camping isn't your thing. In that case, there's always the state park lodge we mentioned above, with conveniences like wifi, air conditioning, and an outdoor pool.
For more information on overnighting at Maumee State Park, be sure to visit the ODNR website.
Other Things to Do
Tons of Activities: In addition to the activities and attractions already listed above, the park also offers basketball, volleyball, and pickleball courts, as well as an archery range, not to mention a fishing pier where you can easily snag some walleye. While hunting is not allowed in the state park, serious huntsman and trappers can just mosey next door to the Mallard Club Marsh Wildlife Area.
Nature Center: For some interpretive insights, be sure to stop by the park's Nature Center. It's not far from the Butterfly Gazebo. Got your attention now?
Hiking Trails: Maumee has several short and mellow trails. Here are some you shouldn't miss:
- Interpretive Boardwalk Trail: This ADA accessible trail is 2 miles long and circles the park's Wetlands. It's an excellent place for avian fans to snap photos of Red-Winged Blackbirds.
- Mouse Trail: At 2.5 miles, this easy trail is great for hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter.
- Bike Path: The bike path is paved and connects visitors with the nearby town of Oregon. It circles the park's Inland Lake while passing by parking lots and other facilities.
What's your favorite reason to visit Maumee Bay State Park? Share your experience on our Wide Open Roads Facebook!
