Nestled in the rolling hills of eastern Ohio, Tappan Lake Park offers the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Our picturesque 2,350-acre lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and kayaking, while our lush 5,000-acre park is home to a variety of trails, picnic areas, and campsites.
If you’re headed to the park for an escape back to nature, you can find rustic tent sites to cozy cabins and full hook-up RV spots. Immerse yourself in Ohio’s natural beauty with miles of trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding forests, and join us for seasonal events, including outdoor movie nights, nature programs, and more!
If you’re looking for a day on the water, you can rent a pontoon, launch your own boat, or simply relax on the shore. Our full-service marina offers rentals, fuel, snacks, everything you need for a day on the water! Or enjoy a meal with breathtaking views at the Dockside Bar + Grill at Tappan Lake.
Start planning your escape to nature’s playground at Tappan Lake today!
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Tappan was the first dam constructed in the Muskingum Watershed. It was the first project of its kind that allowed for a permanent impoundment behind the dam to allow for recreation and water resources. Tappan is now the water source for the nearby county seat of Cadiz. When the lake was flooded there were two villages that were inundated, Tappan, and Lacyville. Remnants of the town still remain on the bottom of the lake. The surrounding property, nearly 5000 acres was reclaimed to prevent erosion and runoff. Tappan Lake Park lies within this area.
The park hosts numerous special events and activities throughout the summer including fireworks on the Fourth of July weekend.
There are two picnic pavilions that can be reserved, as well as large number of picnic tables in the picnic areas, adjacent to the beach. The beach is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You can get a hand-dipped ice cream cone, grilled foods, loaded nachos and more at the concession stand operated by Wave Rider’s Grill.
All of the RV sites have 30 Amp electric hookups, and there is water nearby to fill up your tanks. There are several dump stations in the park, and we also offer pump out service weekly. If roughing is your style, there are plenty of primitive sites available too. The Activity center is situated in the campground, where you can pick up those forgotten items at the camp store or enjoy a meal.
If fishing is your passion, Tappan is one of the best bass lakes in the state. We are host to numerous fishing tournaments throughout the year. The lake is managed by the division of wildlife and is stocked annually with all types of game fish. All you need is your Ohio fishing license.
Tappan Marina offers seasonal boat dock rentals as well as daily boat rentals including pontoon boats and fishing boats. The Marina also offers bait/tackle and ethanol free fuel. For Rental information, contact Tappan Marina by calling 740-269-2031.
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Please Note:
- Rates are subject to change in off-season
- Maximum lot occupancy is six (6) persons
- Standard: closer to shower and restroom facilities
See our complete rate schedule (PDF) for discounts and additional rates for permits, vehicle passes, boat decals, trailer pump-outs, winter storage, trailer transports and reservation fees.
Park Entry Fees begin Friday of Memorial Day Weekend – Labor Day
Once you enter the park you are invited to enjoy park activities and amenities including the trails, playgrounds, picnic areas and the beach which is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Gate fee is $5.00 for single occupant, $10.00 per vehicle for 2 or more passengers
Park Hours: 8am-9pm every day
Beach hours: (Open Memorial Day – Labor Day)
- Monday – Thursday 11am-7pm
- Friday – Sunday (and holidays) 10am-8pm
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Vacation Cabins
- Two bedrooms with full size beds, pillows, blanket and bedspread.
- Dining/living room with fold out sleeper sofa bed
- Full bathroom
- Fully equipped kitchen with electric stove/ oven, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, pots, pans, dishware, glasses and cooking and eating utensils
- Electric heat and air-conditioning
- Smart TV
- Charcoal grill, picnic table and fire ring
- Cabins number 4 and 5 are handicap accessible
- Guests must supply full sized sheets and pillowcases, bath towels, soap, kitchen towels, and coffee filters
- No smoking, no pets permitted
Camper Cabins
Love to camp, but don’t have a camper or tent? Camper cabins allow connection to nature while providing shelter from the elements and a dry place to sleep.
- No running water or restroom (shower houses available throughout park)
- 2 plywood sleeping bunks (no mattress)
- Electric
- Heat
- Charcoal grill, picnic table, fire ring
- No pets, no smoking
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RV & Tent Camping
Tappan Lake Park offers a variety of campsites that range from full hook-up to primitive campsites nestled in the woods. More than 550 campsites are available for RVs and tents to camp for a night or longer (discounted 30-day camping rates are also available). Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. If you choose an electric campsite, 30-amp service is provided.RV Rentals
Have you ever wanted to try camping, or maybe you love camping, but don’t own an RV? Tappan Lake Park now has two rental RV’s!! The campsite features full hook-up connections, and all the comforts of home! Click here for more info!
Seasonal Camping
Enjoy the beautiful park setting all summer with seasonal camping. Whether you choose to stay in the campground all season or prefer the convenience of a campsite ready for your enjoyment, seasonal camping offers a discount from the daily camping rate. A seasonal camping permit is available for a seven (7) month period, April 1 – October 31. A limited number of campsites are designated for seasonal camping. For more information about becoming a seasonal camper, click here.Discounts : Discounts apply only to the senior citizen or veteran staying at the campsite or cabin. Discounts cannot be combined.
Senior Citizen: 10% discount the daily camping rate year round. Must be 60 years of age to qualify with valid ID.
Veterans: 10% discount off daily camping and daily cabin rentals year round. Verification from the Veterans Administration required.
Active Duty Military: 25% discount off daily camping and daily cabin rate, based on availability year round. Official document from the Department of Defense (DOD) required. Free park admission.
Former Prisoners of War and 100% Disabled American Veterans: 50% discount off of the daily and 30-day camping rate year round. 25% discount off daily camping and daily cabin rate, based on availability, year round. Lifetime free park admission. Verification from the Veterans Administration required.
Seasonal Camping: Permits to camp April 1 – October 31 at a discounted rate from daily camping.
Off-Season Camping: Discounted camping rates are available November 1 – March 31
Pets
Pets are welcome in all camp areas. Pets are not permitted in the cabins and on the beach.
