LAKE VESUVIUS RECREATION AREA
Campground · Fee not listed
Fast facts
- Cost
- Not listed. Check locally.
- Type
- Campground
- Phone
- 740-534-6500
- Coordinates
- 38.6053, -82.6304
- Last verified
- September 19, 2026
About this place
Overview Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, named for the old Vesuvius iron furnace, is the Wayne National Forest's premier developed recreation site. The 143-acre lake and 1,200-acre complex provides the perfect spot for a getaway. Recreation Lake Vesuvius is a popular location for swimming and fishing. Anglers may catch bass, catfish, crappie and bluegill. A boat ramp is located on-site. A swimming beach is located at Big Bend. A large playing field and multiple hiking trails are available within the recreation area. The accessible 1/3-mile boardwalk along the southwest edge of the lake provides an opportunity for a leisurely stroll through the area, and the slightly longer 1/2-mile Longbow Archery Trail, accesses at least 25 field targets for shooting practice. The area boasts more than 25 miles of hiking trails and more than 45 miles of horseback riding trails. Facilities The recreation area offers two developed family campgrounds, a group camp and group picnic shelters. The group campsite can accommodate up to 50 people for tent camping. It is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible vault toilets, showers and drinking water are provided. Group shelters can accommodate up to 150 people. Picnic tables, campfire rings and grills are provided, as well as accessible flush toilets and drinking water. One shelter provides electricity, while the other does not. Each has access to an amphitheater. Natural Features The lake sits on Storms Creek, which was dammed in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The rugged hills and rock outcroppings offer a scenic backdrop for this beautiful recreation area. The historic Vesuvius iron furnace is located at the base of the dam. Nearby Attractions The closest town is Ironton, Ohio, less than 10 miles from the campground.
From the managing agency.
Is LAKE VESUVIUS RECREATION AREA free?
We do not have a fee on record for LAKE VESUVIUS RECREATION AREA. Confirm the cost locally before you go.
How do I get to LAKE VESUVIUS RECREATION AREA?
LAKE VESUVIUS RECREATION AREA is at 38.6053, -82.6304. We do not hold written directions for this one, so navigate to the coordinates.
Nearby
- Oak Hill Campground0.8 mi
- Iron Ridge Campground0.9 mi
- IRON RIDGE - LAKE VESUVIUS0.9 mi
- OAK HILL - LAKE VESUVIUS1.0 mi
- Two Points Group Campground1.0 mi
- Paddle Creek Horse Campground3.1 mi
- BEECH FORK SHELTERS23.8 mi
- GRAYSON LAKE DAMSITE SHELTERS31.0 mi
No other services within 50 mi on the record.
SourceSource data is agency published. Last synced September 19, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
