Lake Vesuvius Boat Ramp

Located within the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area on Wayne National Forest lands, this boat ramp provides convenient access to both the 143-acre lake and Storms Creek. The facility is situated near the historic Vesuvius iron furnace at the base of the dam and offers parking, restrooms, and picnic amenities. This is a developed recreation site ideal for paddlers looking for a well-maintained launch point with supporting infrastructure.

The lake is popular for multiple water activities including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing (bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill are present). The 1,200-acre recreation complex offers a scenic paddling environment with connections to Storms Creek. For trip planning and camping options, the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area operates as a reservable campground; contact 740-534-6500 for current conditions, amenities, fees, and hours of operation. The site is easily accessed from U.S. Highway 52 at Ironton by taking State Route 93 north approximately 10 miles, then turning east on Lake Vesuvius Road (County Road 29) for 1 mile.

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...

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.

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