Best State Park Beaches in Ohio to Visit to Close Out Summer

Can you believe we’re already thinking about closing out the summer? It feels like it was just yesterday that the warm weather arrived, and we were planning our summer activities in Ohio. Soon, we’ll be trading in our swimsuits for comfy sweaters, but before we do, how about making one last splash to close the end of the warm weather season? Of course, with over 300 miles of shorelines, Lake Erie is the ultimate destination for fun in the sun in the Buckeye State. Some of the beaches even rival those of the coasts.

Beyond Lake Erie, there are several state parks offering swimming and chances to sink your feet in the sand, too. So, I compiled a list of the best state park beaches in Ohio to say goodbye to our sun-soaked days.

1. Headlands Beach State Park - Mentor

It’s a no-brainer to have your last beach days of summer soaking up the golden rays on the shores of Lake Erie. After all, it’s home to the longest natural sand beach in Ohio: Headlands Beach. With 35 acres of shorelines tucked inside Headlands Beach State Park, beachgoers will have lots of room to sunbathe, build sandcastles, and make a splash in the cool, calm waters. Of course, as one of the most popular beaches in Ohio, it’s crowded during busy summer months. So, to avoid the crowds, an end-of-summer beach day here is the best time to bid farewell to the season. Even better, you can hunt for glass and watch the gorgeous sunset from the shores.  

2. Maumee Bay State Park - Oregon

Can you guess the best part about a beach day at Maumee Bay State Park? There are two beaches here: one on the pristine shoreline of Lake Erie and the other on an inland lake. Before the season ends, plan a trip here to enjoy the best of both worlds. On the Lake Erie side, enjoy an authentic beach day with rolling waves, soft sandy shores, and expansive views of the pristine waters. The beach vibes are in full effect here. However, if you want a more low-key day, opt for the inland beach instead. Your days can be spent swimming, paddling, or fishing on the tranquil lake. My favorite part? You can extend your beach day by booking an RV or tent site, staying in the lodge, or renting a rustic cabin for the weekend at the state park.     

3. Kelleys Island State Park - Kelleys Island

No passport is required when you plan a beach day at Kelley’s Island State Park. Known as Lake Erie’s Emerald Isle, this slice of paradise is the largest of the Lake Erie islands in Ohio, and it’s one of my favorite destinations for fun in the sun. The beach here is dreamy and rivals the waters of the Caribbean. In fact, you’ll experience the laid-back island vibes here. Bring your swimsuit to paddle or make a splash in the blue waters of Lake Erie, or simply take a long stroll along the shoreline, sinking your feet in the sugary sand. Beyond the beach, the state park is a wonderful destination for hiking, birdwatching, camping, and seeing the glaciers formed thousands of years ago. Want to end your summer in the most spectacular way? Kelleys Island is the place to be!

4. Buck Creek State Park - Springfield

Don’t let summer go by without creating new memories on the sandy beach at Buck Creek State Park. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, other fun activities include paddling, boating, and water skiing. Anglers bring your tackle box and spend your day catching walleye, muskie, white bass, black bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill on the water. Since the state park is tucked along the 2,100-acre C.J. Brown Reservoir, one of the largest reservoirs in Ohio, the possibilities for summertime fun are endless. And when you’re done soaking up all the water activities, enjoy birdwatching along one of the hiking trails or play a round of disc golf. This family-friendly state park in Ohio has lots of activities to close out the summer season.

5. Geneva State Park, Geneva

You can’t possibly skip Breakwater Beach at Geneva State Park. Another beloved Lake Erie beach, this haven attracts thousands of beachgoers every year. And with miles of shoreline and multiple access points, you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy a relaxing beach day. In the late summer, expect the calm waters of Lake Erie to be warm, making for a wonderful day on the water. Pack a picnic and soak up the pretty water views as you enjoy your snack from the shaded picnic area. You could easily spend an entire day here swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, or paddling on the lake. This is the kind of place where locals and visitors alike come to create summertime (and end-of-summer) memories.

What is your favorite state park beach in Ohio? Did it make our list? Are you planning one last beach day there to close out the season? Tell us all about it on our nomination page. 

And if you're cruising the highway to kick off autumn, here’s a road trip featuring the best fall foliage in Ohio.