Where can one find Greater Cleveland’s best swimming hole? The fact of the matter is that the area abounds with stunning scenery, and there are many lovely places that are perfect for a swim. It all boils down to personal preference, but locals and visitors alike have found common ground when it comes to one nearby state park. Here, you’ll enjoy lovely lakefront views, a swimming beach, and picture-perfect trails right on the lake. Get ready to feel as cool as a cucumber, because a dip in this kettle lake near Cleveland makes sunny days unforgettable.
Prepare to walk on the wild side, because we’re heading into the wilderness of an Ohio State Park for an unforgettable adventure.
Punderson State Park/Facebook
Punderson’s 741 acres are full of surprises, especially when it comes to quiet strolls along their 11 miles of trails.
royalpalmtree/TripAdvisor The Erie Trail is the longest at just over two miles, but all trails offer their own unique charms. Visitors also enjoy boating and fishing, though a valid Ohio fishing license is necessary.
You may be surprised to learn that the state park hosts a stunning swimming beach…
BrianParsons/TripAdvisor At 600 feet, this beach is petite and private. It’s surrounded by the glorious colors of the Northeast Ohio wilderness, but don’t let this distract you… there’s no lifeguard on duty, so you’ll want to exercise caution.
…and that the beach is tucked up against Beach Trail, a breathtaking half-mile walk alongside Punderson Lake.
beachmom250/TripAdvisor If you’re planning a swimming adventure, you’ll definitely want to have your hiking boots on standby. There are so many lovely trails around the park that you won’t be able to resist their allure. You can find an interactive map here.
In addition to the splendid swimming area, you’ll also find playgrounds, picnic areas, and so much more.
blimoco/Flickr Bring sunscreen on your trip with you, and be sure to check for water advisories before you plan your trip. Bacteria and algae are common in this area, and you don’t want to get sick while on vacation.
If a day at the beach doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, there’s much more to do in this park… no matter the season.
Ohio State Parks/Facebook You can swing by the archery game, play golf, or even go camping at this stunning park. You can find more information here.
You also might uncover a bit of local history during your visit.
cleanchagrin/TripAdvisor This lovely lake is named for Lemuel Punderson, the first person to permanently settle in this lovely area. The lake’s history, of course, is much older.
You’ll be amazed to learn that Punderson Lake is the deepest kettle lake in Ohio, and you’ll certainly find yourself mesmerized but its beauty.
beachmom250/TripAdvisor Kettle lakes are depressions created by glacial movement, and melting glacial water filled this body of water in particular. It has since become a vibrant destination that hosts a great variety of Ohio wildlife.
If you can’t fathom spending just one day at this park, consider booking a stay at the on-site lodge.
Sam Howzit/Flickr The stunning lodge at Punderson is historic and beautiful, and its campus includes additional activities like volleyball, tennis, and shuffleboard courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a full-service restaurant. Be sure to book your room in advance if you’re planning a trip.
Every season is memorable at Punderson Lake.
BrianParsons/TripAdvisor Address: 11755 Kinsman Road, Newbury, OH, 44065
Punderson State Park/Facebook
royalpalmtree/TripAdvisor
The Erie Trail is the longest at just over two miles, but all trails offer their own unique charms. Visitors also enjoy boating and fishing, though a valid Ohio fishing license is necessary.
BrianParsons/TripAdvisor
At 600 feet, this beach is petite and private. It’s surrounded by the glorious colors of the Northeast Ohio wilderness, but don’t let this distract you… there’s no lifeguard on duty, so you’ll want to exercise caution.
beachmom250/TripAdvisor
If you’re planning a swimming adventure, you’ll definitely want to have your hiking boots on standby. There are so many lovely trails around the park that you won’t be able to resist their allure. You can find an interactive map here.
blimoco/Flickr
Bring sunscreen on your trip with you, and be sure to check for water advisories before you plan your trip. Bacteria and algae are common in this area, and you don’t want to get sick while on vacation.
Ohio State Parks/Facebook
You can swing by the archery game, play golf, or even go camping at this stunning park. You can find more information here.
cleanchagrin/TripAdvisor
This lovely lake is named for Lemuel Punderson, the first person to permanently settle in this lovely area. The lake’s history, of course, is much older.
Kettle lakes are depressions created by glacial movement, and melting glacial water filled this body of water in particular. It has since become a vibrant destination that hosts a great variety of Ohio wildlife.
Sam Howzit/Flickr
The stunning lodge at Punderson is historic and beautiful, and its campus includes additional activities like volleyball, tennis, and shuffleboard courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a full-service restaurant. Be sure to book your room in advance if you’re planning a trip.
Address: 11755 Kinsman Road, Newbury, OH, 44065
Our selection of state parks is truly a gift to be cherished. Have you ever visited Punderson Lake? What did you most enjoy doing during your visit to this park?
Can’t get enough of summertime fun in the sun? You’ll love a dip in these nine pools in and around Cleveland.
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