Camping at Cowan Lake State Park

Cowan Lake Camping Weekend
Join us for an exciting campout at Cowan Lake State Park, located in Wilmington, Ohio, where we'll enjoy a weekend filled with outdoor adventures! This event will feature kayaking, swimming, and possibly sailing if the wind conditions are favorable. Here's everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Event Details

• Location: Cowan Lake State Park Main Campground, 1750 Osborn Rd, Wilmington, OH 45177
• Activities:
• Kayaking: Paddle across the serene 700-acre Cowan Lake, exploring its coves and shoreline. We’ll venture into the upper reaches of the lake and its feeder creeks in search of wildlife, including the elusive bald eagle. In July, the lake’s shallow inlets will be adorned with vibrant American Lotus blooms, creating stunning pathways lined with giant lily pads that tower over kayaks, offering a spectacular backdrop for our paddle.
• Swimming: Cool off at the park’s public beach, a great spot for relaxation and fun in the water.
• Sailing: If the wind is favorable, we’ll take out a Sunfish sailboat for some leisurely sailing on the lake.
• Bicycling: Bring your bicycle to ride around the campground’s paved loops and nearby trails, enjoying the scenic surroundings.
• Camping: Attendees staying overnight are responsible for reserving their own campsite in the main campground. There are plenty of spots open in the campground at this time, so book through the Ohio State Parks reservation system (reserveohio.com) to secure your site. Our group will be camping on lot 49 in the electric area, so feel free to reserve nearby for easier coordination!
• Day Guests: Attendees can join as day guests without camping, but must adhere to the campground’s guest policies, including registering at the camp office and paying any applicable parking or visitor fees.
• Meals: All meals are on your own. Bring your own food, cooking gear, and coolers. The campground has fire rings and picnic tables for your use.

What to Bring

• Your smile
• Kayak or canoe (rentals available at the park if needed)
• Bicycle for campground exploration
• Swimsuit and towel for swimming
• Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.) for overnight campers
• Camp chair for relaxing around the fire
• Food and cooking supplies for all meals
• Sunfish sailboat if you got em :)
• Sunscreen, bug spray, and other outdoor essentials

Inside Cowan Lake State Park

• Hiking Trails: Explore over 10 miles of trails, including the 1.5-mile Dogwood Trail and the 4-mile Emerald Woods Trail, offering scenic views of the lake and forest.
• Fishing: Cast a line for bass, crappie, or catfish from the shore or a boat.
• Picnic Areas: Enjoy shaded picnic spots with grills and tables for group gatherings.
• Nature Center: Visit the park’s nature center for educational displays and programs about local wildlife.

Nearby Attractions

• Caesar Creek State Park (10 miles away): Offers additional hiking, boating, and fossil hunting opportunities, plus the Pioneer Village for a historical experience.
• Kings Island (20 miles away): A thrilling amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.
• Fort Ancient State Memorial (15 miles away): Explore this National Historic Landmark with ancient Native American earthworks and a museum.
• Little Miami Scenic Trail (10 miles away): A 78-mile paved trail perfect for biking or walking, accessible from nearby towns like Loveland.
• Wilmington’s Historic Downtown (5 miles away): Check out local shops, restaurants, and the Murphy Theatre for a dose of small-town charm.

Additional Notes

• Weather: Check the forecast and come prepared for variable conditions, especially for sailing.
• Park Fees: A daily parking pass or annual Ohio State Parks pass may be required for non-camping vehicles or day guests.
• Group Coordination: We’ll meet at the main campground’s central area each morning to plan the day’s activities.

Get ready for a fun-filled weekend of outdoor adventure at Cowan Lake State Park! Reserve your campsite near lot 49 or plan your day visit soon and let us know if you have any questions.

FOOD

• You are on your own for all meal planning.
• There are many restaurants nearby.

MAPS & INFORMATION

RECOMMENDED GEAR & WHAT TO BRING
Whether you’re paddling, hiking, biking, or just camping and enjoying the outdoors, here’s what you’ll need for a fantastic weekend at Cowan Lake!

🏕️ Camping Essentials:
✅ Tent, hammock, or other shelter
✅ Sleeping bag & sleeping pad
✅ Camp chair for fireside relaxing
✅ Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
✅ Cooking gear (stove, fuel, utensils, plates)
✅ Food & snacks (or plan to grab meals in town)
✅ Cooler with ice (if bringing perishables)
✅ Water bottles / hydration system
✅ Firewood & fire starters (or plan to pitch in for shared campfires)

🚣‍♂️ Paddling Gear (if kayaking)
✅ Kayak, paddle, & PFD (life jacket)
✅ Dry bag for phone/valuables
✅ Water shoes or sandals with straps (no flip-flops)
✅ Quick-dry clothing & extra layers
✅ Helmet (recommended for whitewater sections)

🥾 Hiking Essentials
✅ Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
✅ Daypack with water & snacks
✅ Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
✅ Rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable)
✅ Bug spray & sunscreen

🧢 General Items for All Activities
✅ Layered clothing (temps can drop at night)
✅ Hat & sunglasses
✅ Sunscreen & bug spray
✅ First aid kit & personal medications
✅ Camera / GoPro for capturing epic moments!

🚗 Optional / Nice-to-Have Items
🔹 Hammock for relaxing at camp
🔹 Games, frisbee, or playing cards for downtime
🔹 Coffee-making setup (camp coffee is the best!)
🔹 Earplugs (for light sleepers)

👉 Need gear? Post in the event comments—we might have extras to lend!

📩 Have questions? Reach out to us!

ACCIDENT WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY
Your yes RSVP and by attending this event acknowledges that you have read and agree to my accident waiver and release of liability. With this in mind, please remember that I am not your guide. I am a fellow adventurer that is offering notice of a group of friends that are gathering to share in fun for all. I love you guys, but I love my family more.

CANCELLATION
The event will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather or unsuitable conditions.

IMPORTANT: Check this MEETUP event page on Friday morning for last minute details and watch your email for additional updates.

SUNRISE/SUNSET
Moonrise: 3:56am
Sunrise: 5:56am
Moonset: 5:57pm
Sunset: 8:34pm

GUESTS
Guests are permitted at this event. However, please encourage your friend to sign up on Meet Up and to this group and RSVP to the event. This ensures that the attendees all read and agree to the liability waiver.

NOTE: The details of this event are subject to change.