Buckeye Lake history dates back to the early 1800s. Located in Fairfield and Licking counties in Ohio, the lake began as a stream but was dammed in 1826 to provide waterpower for a mill. This humble beginning marked the beginning of Buckeye Lake’s transformation into the recreational destination it is today.

In the late 1800s, the lake became a popular spot for fishing and boating. As more and more people flocked to the lake, a number of resorts and hotels were built around its shores. One of the most famous of these was the Buckeye Lake Hotel, which was built in 1882 and was known for its elegant dining and dancing (see: the Crystal Ballroom photo above, courtesy of the Buckeye Lake Historical Society).

During the early 1900s, Buckeye Lake continued to grow in popularity as a summer getaway for Ohio residents. The construction of the nearby Lincoln Highway, which was one of the first transcontinental highways in the United States, made the lake more accessible to travelers from all over the country.

In the 1930s, Ohio began to develop the lake as a state park. This effort included the construction of picnic areas, campgrounds, and a number of recreational facilities. The lake also became a popular spot for water skiing and other water sports as traffic to Buckeye Lake increased.

In recent years, Buckeye Lake has faced some challenges but it is bouncing back bigger than ever! In 2015, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) identified a dam safety issue and reduced the lake’s maximum operating level. This led to a decrease in lakefront property values, and some business closures. The dam has been rebuilt with water levels back to normal and Buckeye Lake tourism hotter than ever.

Today, Buckeye Lake is one of the most popular Short Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) destinations in Ohio, second only to Hocking Hills. Boating and fishing have been popular here for years but now there is a huge variety of Buckeye Lake restaurants, bars and coffee shops to go with the activities. With its beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities, Buckeye Lake is sure to continue to be a treasured spot for many years to come.

TL;DR: Buckeye lake history is rich, spanning over a century, from a small stream to a state park and a popular destination for boating, fishing and camping. Despite facing challenges, the state of Ohio continues to work on the problem and plan to increase the lake’s capacity again. The lake is a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy the outdoors, and it’s a treasured spot that will continue to be loved by many for years to come!