Established Camping
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Wayne National Forest closes Lake Vesuvius; surrounding recreation area remains open** PEDRO, Ohio (Sept. 18, 2025)** The Wayne National Forest has closed Lake Vesuvius in Lawrence County, Ohio, for public safety in order to repair the lake dams gate.The closure area covers Lake Vesuviuss normal maximum pool level only. The recreation area surrounding the lake remains open, including trails, campgrounds, and most other facilities. The Boat Launch is closed and will be dredged this fall and winter to clear sediment accumulated during heavy spring rain runoff.Visitors should observe the closure and be aware of personnel working in the area, said Forest Supervisor Lee Stewart. We appreciate your cooperation during these essential maintenance procedures, and we will do our best to minimize recreation impacts and maintain other operations normally.Dam conditions remain stable and safe, and there is no cause for concern as long as visitors observe the closure. The lakebed may be wet and hazardous as it emerges and dries, and the public should not attempt to walk on it to avoid getting stuck in thick mud. The full closure order and map are posted on the Forests Alerts webpage at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r09/wayne/alerts.Forest employees opened the dams gate valve on August 13 to perform standard annual maintenance. However, the dam gate is unable to close due to malfunction or debris obstruction, and personnel must access the gate shaft to determine repairs. The lake will be drawn down 31 feet below normal pool levels in order to assess and fix the pool gate; increased water flow downstream of the dam is expected during this time.While water levels are low, staff will also take the opportunity to conduct a full infrastructure assessment at Lake Vesuvius. In addition to dredging the Boat Launch, they will evaluate the Boardwalk, remove hazard trees, and repair portions of the NF 1955 road that was damaged by ice storms in 2021.
NOTICE WATER SERVICE INTERRUPTION A water line break has occurred at the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area latrine facility, affecting restrooms that service the shelters and picnic area.Facilities will be temporarily closed until repairs are completed.We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we work to restore service.
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, near Pedro, Ohio, is a solid spot for campers looking to unwind in nature. With a mix of tent and RV sites, it’s a great place to kick back, enjoy the outdoors, and maybe even bring your furry friends along—though pets aren’t allowed at the campground itself.
The area is known for its scenic hiking trails and fishing opportunities, making it a hit with families and backpackers alike. Visitors have mentioned that the campground feels remote, yet it offers essential facilities like toilets and trash disposal, so you won’t be completely roughing it. One camper noted, “Great location to earn some backpacking miles,” highlighting the well-maintained trails that provide a sense of space and distance from other campers.
If you’re into water activities, the lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing, with some reviewers raving about the beautiful park setting. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to camp a bit away from the trails, but that just adds to the tranquility. Whether you’re planning a family day trip or a longer stay, Lake Vesuvius has the right mix of relaxation and adventure to keep everyone entertained.
Description
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.
Location
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area is located in Ohio
Directions
From U.S. Highway 52 at Ironton, take State Route 93 north for less than 10 miles to Lake Vesuvius Road (County Road 29). Turn east toward Lake Vesuvius and travel 1 mile to the recreation area.
Address
IRONTON RANGER DISTRICT
6518 STATE ROUTE 93
Pedro, OH 45659
Coordinates
38.605288 N
82.630433 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonNo Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
