Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Strouds Run
Overview
Strouds Run State Park offers a peaceful retreat into the rolling hills of Southeast Ohio, providing a true sanctuary for those seeking the outdoors. Centered around the scenic 161-acre Dow Lake, this park provides a rugged escape for travelers looking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. It is a destination defined by its lush Appalachian hardwood forest and tranquil waters, making it a staple for regional explorers and visiting RVers.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just east of Athens, OH, the park feels remarkably remote despite its proximity to the vibrant home of Ohio University. The landscape is characterized by scenic narrow ridges and deep ravines, offering a classic look at the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau. Visitors can enjoy the deep serenity of the woods while remaining a short ten-minute drive from local dining, grocery stores, and the unique cultural atmosphere of the nearby college town.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground provides a mix of electric and non-electric sites designed to accommodate various RV lengths. Essential facilities include a centrally located dump station and potable water fills to ensure a smooth stay for self-contained rigs. Key features available for guests include:
- A spacious sandy swimming beach for lakeside relaxation during the summer months.
- Access to a full-service boathouse offering seasonal paddleboat and kayak rentals.
- Modern shower facilities and restroom buildings located conveniently near the camping loops.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find over 30 miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, trail running, and technical mountain biking. Dow Lake is a major draw, offering excellent fishing opportunities for bass and crappie, alongside a seasonal boathouse for those who want to spend time on the water. Beyond the park borders, the city of Athens provides a rich culture of local breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and the historic brick streets of the university campus.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for adventurous nature lovers and birdwatchers who prefer a quieter, more primitive camping experience over crowded commercial resorts. It is a fantastic choice for families looking to spend their days on the water or for solo travelers who want to explore the diverse trail systems of Southeast Ohio. If you value privacy, forest shade, and a deep connection to the natural landscape, this is a perfect stop on your itinerary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jeremy Curran
Very nice campground with great spacing between spots. The ONLY downside was the swarming ladybugs. Nobody can control that. It was a great experience there. Afterthought- new picnic tables would be nice.
Chris Maurer
I spent October, November, and part of December of last year living in a cabin I rented. I stayed in two week lengths in different places. Sometimes I stayed in a campsite having a picnic shelter. It was great until the weather got very frosty. The cabin was great until the weather got very windy and wet and it was impossible to keep the cabin warm inside. I thought we would have a average fall. But November had only three days above freezing and soon my wood supply was dwindling. Early December was bitter cold so cold I moved into a tent I could keep warm with a butane burner. Then around the tenth of December ( note every time is either around the tenth or so) a band of coyotes moved into the lake area after hunting season was over and the moon was waining. Around three am a pack of coyotes ran a deer down the camp road attacking and killing it right past my camp disregarding my open campfire they killed it and dragged it of to the lake. All night the feeding frenzy kept me awake. And I stayed moving back into the cabin. I loved caroming the trails between Athens and Stroud's RunLake. What a fantastic time to be in the woods at night in mating season. These woods are exceptionally beautiful in the moonlight. I stood at a trailhead while I watched over 200 deer crossed the road in the full moonlight. They were not concerned about me being there. Wow they had been watching me for months. I had almost daily or more often nightly contact with deer. After living ten years in the wild outdoors I became accustom to having wildlife around me 24/7. Most people fear wildlife and dread outdoors at night. I have a flash light but I never use it because my eyes can see in the dark. You don't see deer stumbling around in the dark with flashlights right. Deer hunting is fantastic out here. Way to many deer. When deer go hungry they begin to waste. So I moved back into North Athens for Christmas and never went back.
Travis G
Not very challenging, beautiful trails. The view of Dow lake from the damn is amazing! Will be back to finish a few trails that I wasn't able to!
Tim Probst
Great trail system here! Bit muddy the day after a lot of rain, but still hike-able. Found 6 different Eastern Box Turtles hanging out on the trails! Plus American Chestnut trees at the top of Crumley Knob!
Laurie Fair
Beautiful easily accessed state park. Gentle up and down trails along the water. Spring flowers were starting to pop up.