Charles Mill Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
If you feel the winds of adventure calling your name, you won't want to miss out on a trip to Charles Mill Lake. It's a great place to visit on your next RV holiday. Charles Mill Lake rests on 2,000 acres of property situated in Mansfield, Ohio, between the two counties of Richmond and Ashland. This body of water is a manmade reservoir that was constructed between 1935-1936 to serve as an important flood control measure for the region. Charles Mill Lake is well-renowned for its crystal clarity and abundance of fish species. It spans a total of 1350 acres and offers families 34 miles of sand-lined coast that is ripe for beachcombing, leisurely strolls, and exploration. Recreational opportunities abound at Charles Mill Lake. Whether you enjoy sailing, boating, or fishing, you will find it all at this great destination hotspot. Among the most popular varieties of fish found in these waters include channel catfish, flathead, catfish bullheads, white bass, largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass (wipers), crappie, bluegill, and saugeye. Housed on the premises is a public boat launch, which is free of charge to use. It is important to note that you must obtain a state license to engage in recreational activities such as boating, hunting, or fishing at Charles Mill Lake. Charles Mill Lake is also often referred to as Mifflin Lake due to its location near to the town of the same name in Ashland County. This region was once the site of conflict between area settlers and Native Americans in the War of 1812. Today, a marker sits within the park grounds, which denotes the activities which occurred during this time. A monument also rests near the dam. With close proximity to a swimming beach as well as many other opportunities for outdoor adventures, a trip to Charles Mill Lake is not to be missed. Plan your next RV vacation there today.
RV Rentals in Charles Mill Lake
Transportation
Driving
Traveling to Charles Mill Lake from Mifflin, OH, or the surrounding areas proceeds smoothly along roads of two-lane construction. The highways are well-maintained and are kept free from snow to permit year-round travel to and from this recreational area. Occasionally, wildlife enters the road space, so be on the lookout for the presence of animals to avoid an accident. Road construction is infrequent, so delays in travel plans are not common.
Parking
There are several places you can safely leave your vehicle at Charles Mill Lake including a lot outside the beach and both camping areas.
Public Transportation
Currently, there is no public transportation available to Charles Mill Lake.
Campgrounds and parking in Charles Mill Lake
Campsites in Charles Mill Lake
Reservations camping
Charles Mill Lake Park Campground
Charles Mill Lake Park Campground offers RV and tent-style camping by reservation between year-round. Many of the campsites provide incredible waterfront views, and primitive style sites are also available in wooded areas. There are 457 campsites, each of which is furnished with a picnic table and fire pit. Many of the sites offer power hookups.
There are two camping areas found within Charles Mill Lake Park Campground: Main Camp and Eagle Point.
For seasonal camping between April 1st and October 31st, a permit is required.
Pets may join their owners at the Main Camp camping facility so long as they remain leashed. Pets are not permitted at Eagle Point.
Seasonal activities in Charles Mill Lake
In-Season
Swimming
When the temperatures start to soar, swimming is an extremely popular summertime activity at Charles Mill Lake. Grab your swimsuit and some sunscreen, and you've got a recipe for a day of fun at this stunningly beautiful beach. The waters are cool and refreshing, the perfect place for a dip or even just to float your cares away. Swimming is not supervised here, so do take care to only enter the lake when the waters are calm.
Pets are not permitted at this beach.
Other amenities found on-site include a basketball court, a playground, and horseshoe pits.
Picnicking
Charles Mill Lake is the ideal spot to enjoy a picnic lunch. If you're looking for the picture-perfect spot from which to feast on some snacks, you will be spoiled for choice here. Spread out a blanket along the shores by the beach or pick a spot in the midst of the serene woods to claim as your own. There are also picnic areas with tables where you and your family can dine in the heart of peace and tranquility.
With such beauty surrounding you, you will want to be sure you have your camera on hand to record your day of adventures at Charles Mill Lake.
Boating
With a boat launch found right on the premises, Charles Mill Lake is a fan-favorite destination for families who love to hit the open water in their boat. All kinds of watercraft are welcome here from powerboats to paddleboards to canoes, kayaks, and more. Only boats with a maximum of 10 horsepower are permitted here, and a permit is required for boating in these waters.
While out on the lake, why not try your hand at catching some fish? Bring along your tackle box and some bait, and you're bound to have a great time reeling in the catch of the day.
Hiking
With such beautiful and varied terrain to enjoy, Charles Mill Lake is a veritable treasure trove of places to explore on a hike. One of the most popular spots is the Donaldson Hiking Trail found just off nearby Crider Road. This picturesque trail winds through areas of dense forest and gentle hills, providing breathtaking views of both the lake and the surrounding area.
There are many incredible paths for you and your family to enjoy here with something sure to suit the activity level and interests of each member of your family. Just be sure to wear footwear that is appropriate for challenging terrain to protect your feet and prevent injury.
Off-Season
Fishing
Charles Mill Lake is a popular spot for people who love to fish. This body of water is home to many different varieties of fish, including largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, saugeye, channel catfish, flathead catfish, crappie, sunfish, and gizzard shad.
You can fish from your canoe, kayak, or pleasure boat or take your chances directly from the shore; either way, you're bound to have a great time.
Check with park officials to see if filleting your haul is permitted on the premises. A license is required to fish at Charles Mill Lake.
Photography
When the leaves begin to turn their most brilliant colors, and the snow starts to fly, it is the perfect time to head out in search of photo ops at Charles Mill Lake. The waters of the lake are particularly beautiful during the fall and winter months, offering panoramic views of the surrounding region directly from the shore. The snow-tipped tree cover frames the abundance of wildlife that makes this area its home.
Savor the crisp fall air as you meander the grounds making memories and capturing incredible shots.
