Pike Lake SP

Pike Lake SP

1847 Pike Lake Road Bainbridge, Ohio 45612

Official Website
Pike Lake State Park map

Also, see all the hotspots at:
Pike County Birding Drive

About this Location

Pike Lake region is located in the unglaciated portion of the Appalachian plateau in Ohio. As the Appalachian Mountains were uplifted, this plateau was created west of the new mountain range. The plateau marks the boundary between the hilly eastern section of Ohio and the flatter western portions. Just thirty miles west of Pike Lake, the terrain changes dramatically from forested hills to rolling farmland.

The landscape of Pike Lake is characterized by dense forests of oak, hickory, tulip, ash and other hardwoods. Several outcroppings of the sandstone bedrock have been exposed in the park.

The dense forest and remote location of Pike Lake create excellent habitat for Ohio’s forest game animals. White-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, gray squirrel, rabbit, and the elusive wild turkey are abundant. Other mammals in the park include skunk, opossum, raccoon and red fox. Reptiles include the box turtle, black snake, five-lined skink, and the endangered timber rattlesnake.

The forest is known for its variety of ferns, mosses, lichens, and fungi. The wildflowers are diverse, creating spectacular displays–spring through autumn.

Notable Trails

Pike Lake Trails
A segment of the Buckeye Trail passes through Pike Lake State Park. This hike uses the Buckeye Trail to connect two loop trails in the park. The total distance of this hike is 3 miles.

Park at the Pike Lake dam. Walk west on Egypt Hollow Road past the amphitheater and then go south on the Wildcat Hollow Trail. Follow this trail 1.2 miles to the intersection with the Buckeye Trail. Go left on the Buckeye Trail which parallels Pike Lake Road. When you reach the dam area, follow the Buckeye Trail east to the Mitchell Ridge Trail. Take the Mitchel Ridge Trail which makes a 1.2-mile circuit. Do not take the east exit of the Buckeye Trail, but continue on the circuit until you return to the intersection where you start on the trail. Then follow the Buckeye Trail west to return to the dam where you left your vehicle.

Features

  • Restrooms on site

Content from Official Website