When thinking about great American beaches, states like Florida and California normally spring to mind. Meanwhile, landlocked Ohio might not necessarily conjure images of gorgeous sandy beaches and warm azure waters. And, Cincinnati, far from the Great Lakes, might just be the last place people think about when compiling a list of great places for a swim.
However, beaches come in all shapes and sizes, and the Cincinnati area, surrounded by state parks awash with lakes, might just boast some of the best places for a beach day.
Like Cleveland and Columbus, Cincinnati is a renter-majority city, with more than half of households renting rather than owning. For many renters across Ohio, easy access to parks and lakes adds to the appeal of local living, especially when great waterfront escapes are just a short drive away.
1. East Fork Lake
Just about 25 miles from downtown Cincinnati, East Fork State Park spans roughly 4,870 acres of rolling hills, forests and open meadows, plus its centerpiece: Harsha Lake, also known as East Fork Lake. The park features a sandy beach equipped with restrooms, showers, changing booths and vending services.
Visitors can hike miles of trails, launch boats from multiple ramps, enjoy fishing and kayaking, and watch for birds among the woodlands and shores. If you’re considering renting in Ohio, this park — so near Cincinnati — is a great natural-escape option close to metropolitan amenities.
2. Cowan Lake
Located about an hour’s drive from Cincinnati, Cowan Lake State Park is another top choice for beach lovers looking for a day out. The beach itself is a slim, sandy stretch with shallow waters at the shore, ideal for paddling in, before swimming out to the depths. With numerous picnic tables nearby, as well as grill pits, it’s easy to make a day of it.
But there’s much more to do at Cowan Lake than just swimming, sunbathing, and sandcastles. Kayaking and boating are great ways to see the sights, with several boat ramps and launch sites near the beach. There’s also a disc golf course and an archery range for those looking for something a little different.
Cowan Lake is also a top spot for camping, with plenty of campsites and cabins in the vicinity. With parking close to the beach and fewer crowds than other options, it’s a superb beach near Cincinnati.
3. Stonelick Lake
Less than an hour from Cincinnati, Stonelick Lake State Park is another cool choice for beach lovers in the city. The sandy beach is located on the lake’s southern shore and is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics. Convenient parking can be found right next to the beach, alongside restrooms and picnic tables.
The views across the water are gorgeous, with woodlands and rolling hills, creating a peaceful retreat. Other activities include fishing and hiking, with plenty of trails to discover circling the lake. Meanwhile, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards can all be rented for those looking to take to the water.
Stonelick is also a must for fossil hunters. It’s one of Ohio’s best spots for finding such natural treasures, and has been luring fossil hunters since the 1800s.
4. Natural Springs Resort
New Paris is a small village, around 70 miles north of Cincinnati, and is home to Silver Lake. Natural Springs Resort sits on the edge of Silver Lake, an RV Park and campground, complete with a sandy swimming beach and much more.
The spacious beach boasts soft yellow sands and gentle waters, with stunning views of the surroundings. It’s within walking distance of all of the resort’s campsites, but day visitors will find parking nearby too. The beach is open to all guests at the resort, though day passes can be bought Monday through Thursday for those not staying on site.
The resort also boasts kayak rentals, a heated swimming pool, basketball courts, sand volleyball, scuba diving, playgrounds, fishing, and much more. With a general store and a beachside grill, it has everything beachgoers need for a day out amid beautiful scenery.
The public transportation system in Cincinnati also makes it easier for renters to explore the region. With several bus routes and park-and-ride options extending beyond the city, getting to nearby lakes and recreation areas doesn’t always require a car.
Cincinnati isn’t the only Ohio city with unexpected beach escapes: Cleveland’s shoreline offers plenty of its own surprises.
Image: Bilanol/Shutterstock.com
