The park's name originates from a historical campsite where pioneers would strip bark from hemlock trees to use for tanning hides.
The area was once a significant site for surface mining before being reclaimed and transformed into a state park.
The 117-acre lake is restricted to electric motor boats and unpowered watercraft, maintaining a quiet environment for paddlers.
The park provides specific amenities for equestrian visitors, including a horse camp with direct access to the trails.
A dedicated archery range is available on-site for public use.
The rugged hills of the park are part of the Appalachian Plateau, providing significant elevation changes compared to the rest of the state.
Barkcamp State Park is situated in the unglaciated region of eastern Ohio, characterized by its rolling, rugged terrain. The centerpiece of the 1,000-acre park is the 117-acre Barkcamp Lake, which features a 700-foot public swimming beach. The landscape is dominated by second-growth hardwood forests, primarily consisting of oak and hickory trees. Visitors have access to over 20 miles of hiking trails that traverse the hills and forested ravines. Equestrian enthusiasts utilize a dedicated 15-mile bridle trail network. The park includes a campground with full-hookup, electric, and non-electric sites, alongside multiple boat launch ramps. Fishing is a popular activity, with the lake stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and crappie. The park's topography reflects the region's coal mining history, with some areas showing signs of reclamation.
The elevated overlook points along the hiking trails that provide a panoramic view of the lake basin.
Pack bug spray, as the dense forest and lakeside environment support high mosquito and tick populations during summer.
If planning to swim, bring water shoes as the sandy beach transitions to rocky substrate in the lake.
Bring a pair of sturdy hiking boots if you plan on exploring the more remote sections of the trail network.
Do not attempt to use gasoline-powered boat motors on the lake, as they are strictly prohibited.
Stay on marked trails to prevent soil erosion in the hilly terrain and keep pets on a leash at all times.
