South Bass Island State Park

Ohio is blessed with many notable State parks but none are as picturesque at the South Bass Island State Park located on the southern shore of the Lake Erie Island, often referred to as Put-in-Bay. The park features primitive and modern campsites along with cabinets that are available for rent by a lottery system, The South Bass Island State Park is home to a well-maintained boat ramp for those seeking to enjoy some Put-in-Bay Fishing or boating.

There are modern restroom facilities located throughout the park and a small snack shack near the visitors center that offers coffee, sandwiches and other local fares. The park is best reached by a Put-in-Bay Golf Cart and there is ample parking to explore the area. Pets on a leash are permitted.

A popular pebble beach is a perfect backdrop for a picnic lunch from one of the great Put-in-Bay Restaurants.  Along the shoreline, you will find a great playground area for children to enjoy. There are BBQ grills for public use and supplies for a cookout are available at the local grocery. For adults, there are Jet Ski Rentals available and the surrounding bay area is generally very calm. Located next to the South Bass Island State Park is a 9 hole executive golf course name Saunders, which can easily be played with just a few clubs.

The park was the former location of the Victory Hotel, once the largest hotel in the United States. Today, all that remains of this important part of Put-in-Bay History is the inground swimming pool, the first co-ed pool of its kind. The hotel burnt to the ground in a spectacular fire seen many miles away. The park should be on your list of things to see and do while visiting and is one of the most popular Put-in-Bay Attractions.