OHIO - The Buckeye State, is home to a diverse array of waterways, including the mighty Ohio River and its portion of Lake Erie, as well as numerous inland lakes and reservoirs that offer recreation and natural beauty. When it comes to sheer depth, one artificial lake stands out as the deepest inland body of water in the state. This article explores Ohio's deepest lake, its features, and its significance.
OHIO - The Buckeye State, is home to a diverse array of waterways, including the mighty Ohio River and its portion of Lake Erie, as well as numerous inland lakes and reservoirs that offer recreation and natural beauty. When it comes to sheer depth, one artificial lake stands out as the deepest inland body of water in the state. This article explores Ohio's deepest lake, its features, and its significance.The Champion of Depth: Senecaville Lake
It belongs to Senecaville Lake, a large reservoir located in Guernsey and Noble counties in the eastern part of the state.
- Maximum Depth: Senecaville Lake reaches a remarkable maximum depth of approximately 85 feet (26 meters). This depth is typically found near the dam area.
- Formation: It is an artificial lake, created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with the construction of the Senecaville Dam on Wills Creek, completed in 1937.
- Purpose: The primary purposes for its creation were flood control and water conservation, but it has also become a significant hub for recreation.
A Vast Expanse: Size and Features
Beyond its impressive depth, Senecaville Lake is a significant body of water by other measures:
- Surface Area: The lake covers approximately 3,550 acres (about 5.5 square miles) at its normal summer pool.
- Shoreline: It boasts around 45 miles of shoreline, offering ample opportunities for various activities.
- Seneca Lake Park: Much of the lake is encompassed by Seneca Lake Park, one of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District's largest parks, providing campgrounds, marinas, beaches, and hiking trails.
Recreational Haven
Senecaville Lake's depth and size make it a popular destination for:
- Boating: All types of boating are popular, from powerboats and pontoons to kayaks and sailboats.
- Fishing: The lake is known for its excellent fishing, supporting a variety of species including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, saugeye (a walleye-sauger hybrid), and bluegill. The deep waters provide a suitable habitat for larger fish.
- Swimming: Designated swimming beaches are available within Seneca Lake Park.
- Camping and Hiking: Numerous campsites and trails surround the lake, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the area's natural beauty.
Considering Lake Erie
It's worth noting that while Senecaville Lake is the deepest inland lake, Lake Erie, which forms Ohio's northern border, is a Great Lake and reaches far greater depths (over 200 feet in some parts). However, those deepest points of Lake Erie are not typically considered when identifying the deepest lake within Ohio, as the question usually pertains to bodies of water primarily or entirely within the state's land boundaries.
Senecaville Lake holds the distinction of being Ohio's deepest inland lake, reaching depths of around 85 feet. This large reservoir, created for flood control, has evolved into a premier recreational destination in eastern Ohio, offering deep, clear waters for boating, fishing, and swimming. Its significant depth contributes to its healthy fishery and its appeal to those seeking diverse aquatic adventures in the Buckeye State.
Sources
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) - Division of Wildlife & Division of Parks and Watercraft
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Huntington District - for Senecaville Dam information)
- Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (for Seneca Lake Park)
- Ohio Geological Survey
- Local fishing guides and tourism websites for the Senecaville Lake area
