Lake with Single Dock In Mountains

Grand Lake St. Marys Vacation Rentals

Grand Lake St. Marys, Ohio, United States
40.5253° N, -84.4932° W
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Grand Lake St. Marys
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Grand Lake St. Marys, Ohio’s largest inland lake, sprawls across 13,500 acres, inviting adventurers, wellness seekers, and families to indulge in its vast waters. Constructed between 1837 and 1845 as a reservoir for the Miami and Erie Canal, this lake is a testament to human labor, built by men using only shovels, pickaxes, and sleds pulled by mules.

Here, water recreation is king: fishing, swimming, boating, skiing, and tubing are just a few of the many activities that draw visitors. The lake’s historic past is as intriguing as its natural beauty, with eagle watching and picnicking offering serene moments amidst the bustling water sports.

Nearby, the Memorial Park in St. Marys boasts the Belle of St. Marys Canal Boat, Memorial Covered Bridge, and Veterans Walkway, while the Splash Pad provides a refreshing spot for families during summer. The Armstrong Air and Space Museum in Wapakoneta and the Bicycle Museum of America are must-visits for those intrigued by history and innovation. For those seeking relaxation, the lake’s expansive shoreline offers perfect spots for camping and reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or tranquil retreats, Grand Lake St. Marys is a destination that caters to all.

Surface area (mi)
32.68
Max depth (ft)
16.01
Elevation (ft)
869.42
Shoreline length (mi)
73.94
Best time to go
Visit Grand Lake St. Marys in late summer, ideally August, when the sun bathes the shimmering waters in golden light. Enjoy tranquil fishing days, vibrant sunsets, and the sensory delight of warm breezes. The annual Art Deco Weekend brings local charm, making it a perfect escape while crowds dissipate. Embrace the peaceful allure of this pristine oasis.
Water Quality
The water color of Grand Lake St. Marys is typically murky, with a Secchi disk depth of 0.2 to 0.3 meters, indicating low transparency.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Jet Skiing
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Marinas on Grand Lake St. Marys

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Grand Lake St. Marys has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, it is not safe to swim in Grand Lake St. Marys. The lake has public health advisories due to high levels of algal bloom toxins like microcystin, which can cause serious illnesses, including liver damage and other health issues. Swimming and wading are not recommended at the lake’s beaches.

  • Grand Lake St. Marys is a popular destination because it is Ohio’s largest inland lake, offering various water activities like fishing, swimming, boating, and skiing. The lake also provides opportunities for picnicking, eagle watching, and camping, making it a versatile spot for outdoor recreation.

  • There are no specific fishing hours or restrictions unique to Grand Lake St. Marys, Ohio. General statewide fishing regulations apply, and anglers must follow those rules. The lake is open for fishing from sunrise to sunset, but this is not a lake-specific rule, it applies to certain other areas in Ohio.

  • No, dogs are not allowed on the swimming beaches at Grand Lake St. Marys. However, dogs are permitted in other areas of the park and there are dog parks available for them to play off-leash. Dogs can also be walked on leashes in other parts of the park.

  • Towns near Grand Lake St. Marys include Celina, Wapakoneta, Sidney, and Van Wert. These towns are all located in the same general area in western Ohio, with Celina being the closest and situated directly along the lake.