Tappan Lake Park

For Ohioans seeking a vibrant and versatile outdoor destination in the eastern part of the state, Tappan Lake Park presents an expansive and engaging option. Nestled in Deersville, this popular park, managed by the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD), offers a wide array of recreational opportunities centered around the beautiful Tappan Lake. From various camping options to cabin rentals and extensive water activities, Tappan Lake Park is designed to cater to diverse interests, making it a beloved spot for families, anglers, boaters, and those simply looking to enjoy Ohio's natural beauty.

Tappan Lake Park is renowned for its large, picturesque lake and the surrounding woodlands, providing a scenic backdrop for any outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, hook up your RV, or enjoy the comforts of a cabin, Tappan Lake Park provides a comprehensive setting. As one cabin guest enthusiastically shared, they "Absolutely loved having the place to ourselves" in late April, appreciating the "simple and clean" cabins with "full kitchen with some dishes if needed, showers hot and big." While noting that "furniture could definitely use an update" and "internet/WiFi is super shotty sometimes," they concluded, "But other than that it's beautiful and peaceful. Can't ask for much more! ☺️" This highlights the park's rustic charm and core offerings.

However, like any popular destination, Tappan Lake Park aims to balance lively recreation with peaceful enjoyment. A reviewer mentioned challenges with noise, stating, "Do not go if you want to sleep," due to late-night partying and early morning dog barking. They also noted boaters' "no respect for fisherman," suggesting a vibrant, sometimes boisterous atmosphere, concluding, "Definitely not what is use to be! Only reason it got 2 stars was the people around the campground were nice for the most part." This feedback suggests that while the park is generally welcoming, it can experience periods of high energy, particularly during peak seasons, and prospective visitors should consider if this lively environment aligns with their expectations. Tappan Lake Park continues to evolve, striving to provide a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit, balancing various forms of recreation.

Tappan Lake Park is strategically located at 84000 Mallarnee Rd, Deersville, OH 44693, USA. This places it firmly in Eastern Ohio, within Guernsey and Harrison Counties, making it a central hub for outdoor recreation in the region. The park is easily accessible from various parts of Ohio and neighboring states, contributing to its popularity.

Access to Tappan Lake Park is convenient via well-maintained state and local roads. It is situated off of US Route 250, which provides a direct route from larger towns and interstate highways. For Ohioans traveling from major cities, it is approximately:

• 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours drive southeast of Canton/Akron.
• About 2 hours to 2 hours and 30 minutes drive east of Columbus.
• Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes drive west of Wheeling, West Virginia.

The roads leading into and within the park are designed to accommodate vehicles of all sizes, including RVs and those towing boats or trailers, ensuring a smooth arrival. The address on Mallarnee Road leads directly to the park's main entrance, where registration and various facilities are located.

The park's location offers a harmonious blend of natural seclusion and practical access to nearby amenities. While immersed in the rolling hills and woodlands surrounding Tappan Lake, the charming village of Deersville is close by for any immediate needs. Larger towns such as Cadiz and Uhrichsville are also within a reasonable driving distance, offering more extensive dining, shopping, and fuel options. This balance makes Tappan Lake Park an ideal base for exploring Eastern Ohio's landscapes and communities.

• Variety of Camping Options: Tappan Lake Park offers diverse camping experiences, including full hook-up sites (electric, water, sewer), electric-only sites, primitive (non-electric) sites, and designated areas for tent camping. This caters to a wide range of camping preferences and equipment.
• Cabin Rentals: The park provides rustic cabins, as noted in a review, offering a more comfortable stay with amenities like a "full kitchen with some dishes if needed, showers hot and big." Some cabins may include heating/AC.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities with hot water are typically available throughout the campground areas.
• Dump Station: A convenient sanitary dump station is provided for RVs to dispose of wastewater.
• Potable Water Access: Water spigots are available at various points within the campground for refilling water containers.
• Camp Store: A park or marina store usually offers essential camping supplies, firewood, ice, snacks, beverages, fishing bait, and park merchandise.
• Boat Launch Ramps: Multiple boat launch ramps provide easy access to Tappan Lake for all types of watercraft.
• Full-Service Marina: The park features a marina offering boat rentals (pontoon, fishing boats, kayaks, paddleboards), fuel sales, seasonal dock rentals, and often a bait shop.
• Swimming Beach: A designated public swimming beach area allows visitors to enjoy the lake safely.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playground areas are typically available for children.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic sites with tables and grills are scattered throughout the park for day-use visitors.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome in most areas of the park and on campsites, though specific rules and leash laws apply. Check for any designated pet swimming areas.
• Seasonal Programs & Events: During peak season, the park often hosts interpretive programs, nature activities, and special events for campers and visitors.

• Scenic Tappan Lake: The central highlight is the 2,350-acre Tappan Lake, offering ample space for unlimited horsepower boating, fishing (known for saugeye, largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie), and watersports like tubing and waterskiing. Its picturesque coves and shoreline are perfect for exploration.
• Diverse Camping & Lodging Options: The ability to choose between various levels of RV sites (full hook-up, electric-only), primitive tent camping, and comfortable cabins means Tappan Lake Park can accommodate almost any camper's preference and budget. The "simple and clean" cabins with full kitchens are a distinct highlight for those preferring more comfort.
• Expansive Recreational Opportunities: The park boasts a wide array of activities beyond just camping:
  • Boating & Marina: A full-service marina enhances the boating experience with rentals, fuel, and supplies.
  • Fishing: Tappan Lake is a well-regarded fishing destination, particularly for saugeye, offering excellent angling opportunities.
  • Swimming: A large, designated swimming beach provides a safe and enjoyable area for cooling off.
  • Hiking & Biking Trails: Numerous trails wind through the park's woodlands and along the lake, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
  • Disc Golf Course: Often, MWCD parks feature a disc golf course, adding another recreational dimension.
  • Nature Center: Many MWCD parks have a nature center with educational exhibits and programs.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: The park's welcoming policy towards pets, including potentially a designated pet swimming area, is a significant feature for many Ohio families.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: With playgrounds, diverse activities, and a range of camping options, Tappan Lake Park is designed to be a family-friendly destination where memories are made.
• Managed by MWCD: Being part of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District means the park benefits from professional management focused on conservation, recreation, and flood control, ensuring well-maintained facilities and sustained natural beauty.

While one review mentioned noise concerns ("party till 3 am") and boater disrespect for fishermen, it's worth noting that park management often works to address such issues and promote respectful use of shared resources. The general consensus for cabins emphasizes a "beautiful and peaceful" experience, indicating that quieter areas or off-peak visits can provide the desired tranquility.

As a park managed by the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD), Tappan Lake Park generally operates under a set fee structure for its camping and lodging options. While specific "promotions" in the commercial sense might not be widely advertised, there are several value-added aspects and potential discounts that Ohio locals should be aware of:

• Seasonal & Off-Peak Rates: Pricing for campsites and cabins often varies by season (peak vs. off-peak) and day of the week (weekends typically being higher). Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or on weekdays can often result in lower rates and a more peaceful experience, as suggested by the cabin review ("Absolutely loved having the place to ourselves" in late April).
• Weekly & Monthly Discounts: For longer stays, Tappan Lake Park (like other MWCD parks) typically offers discounted weekly and monthly rates for campsites, providing significant savings compared to daily rates. These are excellent options for Ohioans planning extended vacations or seasonal stays.
• Senior Citizen Discount: MWCD parks generally offer a discount for senior citizens (often 10% off camping fees) for those aged 60 and over. Valid identification is usually required at check-in.
• Military Discount: Active military personnel and veterans may be eligible for discounts on camping fees. It's always best to inquire directly with the park office or check the MWCD website for current policies.
• "Friend of the Lake" Program: While not a direct discount on camping, supporting the MWCD's "Friend of the Lake" programs or memberships can sometimes come with perks or early access to reservations, which is valuable at popular parks like Tappan Lake.
• Advance Reservations: The ability to reserve campsites and cabins well in advance, especially for popular weekends and holidays, ensures you secure your desired spot and avoids disappointment. While not a discount, it's a valuable service for savvy campers.

For the most current information on rates, availability, and specific discount policies, it is always recommended to visit the official Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) website or contact Tappan Lake Park directly.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Tappan Lake Park and its offerings, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 84000 Mallarnee Rd, Deersville, OH 44693, USA
• Phone: (740) 922-3649 (This is their primary contact number for park and campground inquiries.)
• Mobile Phone: +1 740-922-3649 (This appears to be the same main line, useful for direct mobile contact.)
• Official Website: Visit the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) website for Tappan Lake Park for detailed information, rates, online reservations, and maps. (Typically: www.mwcd.org/park/tappan-lake-park or similar.)
• Online Reservations: Most MWCD parks use a centralized online reservation system, which can be accessed through their main website.
• Email: A general MWCD contact email might be available on their website, or a specific park email for Tappan Lake Park.

It is highly advisable to book your campsite or cabin well in advance, especially for weekends, holidays, and the prime summer months, as Tappan Lake Park is a very popular destination for Ohio campers and vacationers.

Tappan Lake Park is an excellent and highly suitable destination for Ohio locals, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and lodging options right in the heart of Eastern Ohio. Its appeal lies in its ability to cater to various preferences, from the avid angler and boater to families seeking a comfortable and amenity-rich retreat.

Firstly, its prime location in Eastern Ohio makes it easily accessible for residents across the state, particularly those in the central and eastern regions. This convenience reduces travel time, allowing more precious hours to be spent enjoying the park's offerings. For Ohioans who own boats, the lake's unlimited horsepower allowance is a significant draw, providing ample space for all types of water recreation.

Secondly, the variety of accommodations—ranging from full hook-up RV sites to primitive tent areas and "simple and clean" cabins—means that Tappan Lake Park truly has something for everyone. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of tent camping, the comfort of an RV with all the hookups, or the convenience of a cabin with a "full kitchen" and "hot and big" showers, the park can meet diverse needs and budgets. This flexibility makes it a great choice for multi-generational trips or different preferences within a group.

While some reviews highlight potential noise concerns and busy periods, this also speaks to the park's vibrant atmosphere and popularity. For many Ohioans, a lively campground, especially during peak season, is part of the fun – a place where families gather, friends make memories, and the energy of shared outdoor recreation is palpable. The "people around the campground were nice for the most part," as one reviewer noted, suggesting a generally positive community feel. For those seeking more tranquility, the off-season or cabin rentals (as one reviewer found "beautiful and peaceful") can offer a quieter escape.

In essence, Tappan Lake Park is a comprehensive outdoor destination that truly caters to the Ohio spirit of recreation. It’s a place where you can enjoy the vastness of a beautiful lake, explore scenic woodlands, and choose the perfect level of comfort for your stay, all within a reasonable drive for many Ohioans. It invites locals to create lasting memories and embrace the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that their home state so proudly offers.