Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter

For those in Ohio seeking a delightful escape into nature combined with a touch of local history, the Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas – Furnace Shelter offers an exceptional destination. Nestled within the picturesque Wayne National Forest, this area is not just a place to enjoy a meal outdoors; it's a gateway to exploration, relaxation, and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Southern Ohio. Whether you're planning a family gathering, a peaceful afternoon surrounded by natural beauty, or a starting point for your next outdoor adventure, the Furnace Shelter provides a unique and inviting setting. It’s a spot where the tranquility of the Ohio wilderness meets the echoes of a bygone industrial era, creating a truly memorable experience for all who visit.

The Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, named for the historic Vesuvius Iron Furnace, is considered the premier developed site within the Wayne National Forest. This expansive area encompasses a 143-acre lake and a 1200-acre complex, providing ample space for a wide array of recreational pursuits. The Furnace Shelter specifically is a day-use picnic shelter designed to accommodate larger groups, making it ideal for community events, family reunions, or simply a spacious spot for a large group of friends to gather. Its proximity to the historic furnace ruins adds a fascinating layer to any visit, inviting guests to delve into the industrial past that shaped this corner of Ohio. The setting is truly unique, with rugged hills and outcropping cliffs providing a scenic backdrop to the entire recreation area. It's a place where the natural beauty of Ohio's landscape is enhanced by intriguing historical landmarks, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

The Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter is conveniently located in Pedro, Ohio, at the address Pedro, OH 45659, USA. Situated within the expansive Wayne National Forest, this location offers a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, while still being relatively accessible for residents across Ohio. Specifically, it is approximately 6.5 miles north of Ironton, Ohio, just off State Route 93 and County Road 29. The well-maintained roads leading to the recreation area make it easy to reach by car, ensuring a smooth journey for day-trippers and those planning longer stays. Visitors should keep an eye out for signs directing them to the recreation area once they turn onto County Road 29.

Once at the site, the Furnace Shelter itself is designed with accessibility in mind, welcoming visitors of varying mobility levels. The area offers paved, well-maintained paths and designated parking to ensure ease of access to the shelter facilities. It’s important to note that vehicles are required to stay in designated parking areas and not drive directly up to the shelter house, preserving the natural environment and pedestrian safety. For those with mobility challenges, a boardwalk along the southwest edge of Lake Vesuvius provides a fully accessible opportunity for a leisurely stroll and fishing, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. This thoughtful approach to accessibility ensures that Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas – Furnace Shelter can be enjoyed by a broad range of visitors from across Ohio.

The Furnace Shelter at Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas provides a range of services designed to enhance your outdoor experience:

• Large Group Capacity: The shelter boasts a significant capacity, capable of accommodating up to 125 people, making it perfect for sizable gatherings.
• Electricity: The shelter facilities include electricity, a crucial amenity for events requiring power for lighting, cooking appliances, or other electronic needs.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at the shelter, though it's important to note that water services may be turned off during winter months.
• Cooking Grills: Multiple cooking grills are provided, allowing visitors to enjoy traditional outdoor cooking and barbecues.
• Picnic Tables: Numerous picnic tables are set up within and around the shelter, offering comfortable seating and dining arrangements for groups.
• Ballfield Access: A dedicated ballfield is situated nearby, offering space for recreational sports and activities.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater is also available near the Vesuvius Furnace Shelter, suitable for presentations, performances, or group gatherings.
• Restrooms: Accessible flush toilets are available within the recreation area, providing essential conveniences for visitors.

Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter offers several unique features and highlights that set it apart:

• Historic Vesuvius Furnace Ruins: The shelter is located just above the captivating ruins of the historic Vesuvius Iron Furnace. Built in 1833, this furnace played a significant role in Ohio's industrial history, producing iron until the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the preserved stack and learn about the "cold blast" process that was pioneered here. This historical connection offers a fascinating educational element to your visit, as highlighted by a customer who "enjoyed learning more about the history of this area of Ohio."
• Proximity to Lake Vesuvius: The shelter is situated south of the beautiful 143-acre Lake Vesuvius, offering easy access to a variety of water-based activities. The lake is popular for fishing, with species such as bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. Boating is also permitted (electric motors only), and a boat ramp is available.
• Scenic Natural Setting: The area is surrounded by the dense forests and rolling hills of the Wayne National Forest, providing a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for outdoor recreation. The rugged hills and outcropping cliffs create a truly scenic environment.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting offers chances to observe local wildlife, including white-tailed deer and various bird species. One reviewer fondly mentioned, "These 3 ducks followed me everywhere.. I ran to the Dollar General to get them Oats bc I read you should not give them bread," highlighting the opportunities for wildlife interaction (though it's always best to observe from a distance and avoid feeding wild animals).
• Extensive Trail System Access: While the Furnace Shelter is primarily a picnic area, its location provides convenient access to a vast network of hiking trails within the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area and the wider Wayne National Forest. This includes the Lakeshore Trail, which offers scenic views of the lake, and the Rock House Trail.

While specific promotions or special offers for the Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter are not publicly advertised as ongoing programs, visitors should be aware of the daily use fee structure. If the shelter is not reserved in advance, it may be used on a first-come, first-serve basis for a fee of $42 per day. This fee is to be paid at the Iron Ridge Campground fee tube. It is always advisable to check the official Wayne National Forest website or contact them directly for the most current information on any potential seasonal discounts, group rates, or reservation policies that might be available for the Furnace Shelter or other facilities within the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area. Planning your visit, especially for larger groups, by making a reservation can often secure your preferred date and ensure the availability of this popular facility.

For inquiries or to learn more about the Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter, you can use the following information:

Address: Pedro, OH 45659, USA

Phone: While a direct phone number for the specific Furnace Shelter is not consistently provided, the Wayne National Forest Ironton Ranger District office can be reached for general inquiries about the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area. Their general public information line is (740) 589-9930. For reservations, you might typically use the National Recreation Reservation System (NRRS) at 1-877-444-6777 or their website Recreation.gov, although specific booking details for the Furnace Shelter may vary and direct contact with the local office is recommended to confirm availability and reservation procedures for this particular picnic shelter.

The Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter stands out as an exceptional destination for Ohio locals for a multitude of reasons, offering a perfect blend of recreational opportunities, historical immersion, and natural beauty right in their backyard. Its strategic location within the Wayne National Forest in Southern Ohio makes it an accessible escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, without requiring extensive travel. For families, the spacious picnic shelter with its amenities like electricity, grills, and nearby ballfield provides an ideal setting for gatherings, birthday parties, or simply a fun day out. Children and adults alike can enjoy the open space for play, while the tranquil environment encourages relaxation and connection with nature.

Beyond the immediate picnic facilities, the rich historical context of the Vesuvius Iron Furnace offers a unique educational component. Locals have the invaluable opportunity to learn about Ohio's industrial past, standing amidst the ruins of a significant historical site. This blend of history and nature is a rare find and provides a deeper appreciation for the region's heritage. As one visitor noted, they "loved the beauty & history throughout," illustrating the profound impact of this unique combination.

Furthermore, the broader Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, to which the Furnace Shelter provides access, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it's fishing and electric-motor boating on the picturesque lake, exploring the extensive network of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, or simply observing local wildlife like the charming ducks that captured one visitor's heart, there's an activity to suit every interest. The tranquil atmosphere, coupled with the varied recreational options, ensures that every visit can be tailored to individual preferences, from a peaceful afternoon by the water to an invigorating hike.

In essence, Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter is more than just a picnic spot; it's a community asset that offers a convenient, enriching, and rejuvenating experience for Ohioans. It’s a place where memories are made, history comes alive, and the beauty of Ohio’s natural landscape can be fully appreciated. For those seeking an accessible, family-friendly, and historically significant outdoor retreat, this location truly stands out as a prime choice for locals to cherish and frequent.