Located at the northeast corner of Springfield, Ohio, in the Buck Creek State Park region, Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir is situated in all its shining, shimmering glory, just seven miles from its confluence with Mad River.
The C. J. Brown Dam and Reservoir boasts two very rare fen communities. One of them is the Prairie Road Fen, which is not only the largest but also the finest one in Ohio. These alkaline wetlands are home to some very specialized species of flora and fauna. You might catch sight of some rare spotted turtles and Massasauga rattlesnakes that reside and thrive in these wetlands.
The lake was named after Clarence J. Brown Senior, who was born in Ohio and later became the State Statistician of Ohio, founded the Brown Publishing Company, and was also behind the publishing of various county newspapers. He also served as Ohio's Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, and was even a Republican nominee for governor.
This reservoir was named in his memory by his Democratic and Republican colleagues and friends. The area was taken over by the US Army Corps of Engineers for designing, operating, and construction of the reservoir. With it, they also took over the ancient historic site of Crabill Homestead, built in the early 1830s.
The C. J. Brown Dam is located outside the city limits of Springfield. From I-70 westbound, exit at US 40 and go west to Bird Road, turn right and head north on Bird Road then take a left on Old Columbus Road. Follow the signs to the C.J. Brown Visitor Center, turn right onto Croft Road, then right onto Overlook Drive which will lead you to the dam and park area.
The C. J. Brown Dam and Reservoir is located in Buck Creek State Park, which offers tons of activities to the millions of visitors that visit the dam every year. The dam and reservoir are for both types of outdoor recreationalist; those who enjoy fast-paced and adrenaline-based sports such as snowmobiling, jet skiing, and wind-surfing, as well as those who enjoy long, quiet walks surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Buck Creek State Park also allows visitors to stay the night in their RVs and enjoy the glorious glamping experience. The park boasts 111 campsites, 89 of which are electric, and 22 are non-electric. The electric sites are equipped with a paved pad, a picnic table, and a campfire grill. 16 out of the 22 non-electric sites also have a concrete pad, picnic tables, and a grill.
The Class A campground also allows campers access to walking trails, bike rentals, basketball courts, an amphitheater, shuffleboard, and even an exclusive beach if you are a registered camper. There is drinking water, sanitary hookups, firewood, showers, toilets, and Wi-Fi. Pets are also allowed at the campground.
The State of Ohio has leased the Buck Creek State Park from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Angling is a beloved pastime at Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir. The lake waters give anglers the opportunity to catch some truly large-sized river monsters. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife stocks the lake frequently with largemouth bass and walleye. There's also crappie, channel catfish, smallmouth bass, and bluegill. You can find fishing maps from the US Army Corps of Engineers visitor center. Fishing platforms can be found at the Lake View Recreation Area as well as the nearby Marina.
Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir offers 2,120 acres of vast waters to take on with a variety of watercraft. The lake has a concrete boat launch ramp at Buck Creek State Park and even marina facilities. The marina includes a fueling station and 186 seasonal dockages and overnight dockages, as well as a dump station. There is even a small grocery store for boaters to buy essentials if needed.
All the state regulations of boating apply at Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir, so make sure to follow them if you plan on boating here. Water skiing and jet skiing are also permitted at the lake.
Hunters are given a lot of freedom at Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir as they get access to nearly a thousand acres of wilderness to practice their sport. If you plan on hunting here, make sure that you are well aware of regulations and intend to follow the few hunting restrictions set by the state of Ohio. Hunting season lasts from October through March. Go through the map for markings of the hunting zone before your visit.
Mountain bikers can enjoy the magnificent views of the lake waters and the adjoining wetlands by braving the mountain bike trails at the dam site and at the Stilling Basin. The trails are fairly easy and offer a great way to explore the surrounding areas and get some exercise at the same time. Plus, it's an exhilarating feeling to race along the trails.
There are two designated areas at the lake that allow for swimming at Buck Creek State Park. One swimming area is at the main beach that is accessible to the general public. The other swimming area, near the campground, is more private and can only be accessed by registered campers.
There are no lifeguards at either spot, so it is advised to keep an eye on your friends and family members, especially if they are not strong swimmers.
C. J. Dam and Reservoir boasts three picnic shelters that can be reserved in advance. These picnic shelters come with grills, electricity, picnic tables, and water fountains. The first picnic shelter is called Lake View Shelter and can cater to up to 150 occupants and accommodate around 40 vehicles.
The second picnic shelter is the Meadow View Shelter that also holds a max capacity of 150 occupants and 52 vehicles. The last one is the Prairie View Shelter that has a capacity of 150 occupants and 48 vehicles. All three sites are ADA accessible.
