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Top 24 Hotels Near Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake
23560 Jenkins Dam Rd Glouster, OH 45732
The Lodge at Hocking College
Upon leaving The Lodge at Hocking College, Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake is an easy regional drive, simplifying your visit.
At The Lodge at Hocking College, arrivals may highlight a compact lobby, practical desk service, and parking options set up for everyday convenience. Guest rooms typically include blackout curtains, climate control, and streaming access, ensuring both privacy and entertainment options. Shared spaces often include modest lobbies, vending machines, and breakfast corners that help maintain clarity and comfort for travelers.
Accommodations often include Wi-Fi, vending machines, compact breakfast areas, and guest laundry, helping sustain daily convenience.
Days Inn by Wyndham Athens
Serving as a convenient base, Days Inn by Wyndham Athens keeps Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake a simple commute away.
Days Inn posts restroom wayfinding just off the lobby, limiting elevator trips during arrival windows or pre-departure waits for most guests. Guest rooms pair free Wi-Fi with a flat-screen HDTV and HDMI access, keeping news and streaming simple while plans and maps stay up to date. Vending alcoves cluster cold drinks, packaged snacks, and a microwave along main corridors to cover late arrivals without a detour.
Pet-friendly rooms at many locations plus outdoor space, Wi-Fi, and a small market keep walks, returns, and snacks uncomplicated.
Hampton Inn Athens
For visitors to the region, Hampton Inn Athens is a sensible base, keeping Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake an easy regional drive away.
Bright lighting and open layouts at Hampton Inn receptions support orientation clarity, giving travelers smooth navigation cues at check-in. Guest rooms provide sofa beds, televisions, and comfortable chairs, giving families shared spaces for evening relaxation and downtime. Lobby areas with community tables, sofa clusters, and natural light act as shared hubs, encouraging coordination and relaxed connection.
On-site markets, complimentary breakfast, fitness centers, laundry service, and Wi-Fi access ensure convenience across every guest stay.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Athens
For those making an easy regional drive, Fairfield Inn & Suites Athens is a convenient base for accessing Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake and the surrounding area.
To aid quick meetups, Fairfield Inn supplies tall counters and benches near reception where groups can gather before heading to rooms. All suites feature ergonomic desks, ample outlets, and fast Wi-Fi, providing reliable setups that help professionals remain productive. Lobby areas showcase sofas, flexible chairs, and open sightlines, serving as casual hubs for both orientation and social interaction daily.
Guests enjoy fitness rooms, 24/7 Market snacks, complimentary Wi-Fi, and breakfast service, ensuring routines remain predictable every morning.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Athens by IHG
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Athens by IHG guests a simple way to start their day of travel.
Complimentary breakfast areas within Holiday Inn Express lobbies give guests reliable access to morning meals without added planning. All guest rooms feature plush beds, blackout curtains, and efficient HVAC systems, delivering comfort and consistency every night. Fitness rooms containing treadmills, ellipticals, and weights give travelers reliable facilities to preserve healthy daily habits.
Free breakfast, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi pair with indoor pools and meeting rooms, covering both leisure and professional goals.
Quality Inn Athens
Guests at Quality Inn Athens can count on it as a convenient base for the easy regional drive to Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake.
Quality Inn arrival cues—lighting, signage, staff presence, and seating—combine to create a tidy, dependable first impression on arrival. Each suite balances multiple lighting zones and ample outlets with a roomy desk area to support focused work while preserving evening ambience. Meeting suites integrate screens, modular furniture, and AV support so workshops and trainings run smoothly without external vendor trips.
Event pre-function spaces, signage, and beverage points improve transitions and keep start times punctual for workshops and briefings.
Super 8 by Wyndham Athens
For visitors to the region, Super 8 by Wyndham Athens is a convenient base, keeping Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake within driving reach.
Lobbies at Super 8 emphasize practical layouts and bright finishes, making arrivals straightforward and consistent across the brand. Each guest room presents comfortable bedding, blackout curtains, and crisp linens, providing restorative rest throughout each night. Fitness facilities containing ellipticals, treadmills, and weights enable wellness balance and clarity during extended stays.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking align with pools and laundry, making travel routines simple and predictable each day.
Athens Central Hotel
The benefit of using Athens Central Hotel as a sensible base renders it into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
At Athens Central Hotel, guests are typically greeted with warm staff welcomes, curated furnishings, and complimentary refreshments. Guest rooms may present eclectic interiors, premium bedding, and curated minibars that reinforce boutique individuality and style. Amenities may include artisanal lounges, curated cafés, and intimate dining venues that emphasize a creative boutique impression.
A visit may offer complimentary Wi-Fi, bike storage, laundry service, and pet allowances, creating boutique practicality for all guests.
Highlander Motel
For travelers with a wide-ranging itinerary, Highlander Motel is a convenient base, keeping Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake an easy regional drive away.
At Highlander Motel, arrivals may include compact lobbies, vending machines, and exterior entries that reinforce practical travel routines. Rooms typically include cable channels, modest desks, and climate control, reinforcing balanced routines across budget motel stays. Shared spaces may include vending machines, guest laundries, and modest lobbies that emphasize practical routines for overnight visitors.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, exterior parking, and pet-friendly policies, reinforcing consistency across budget motels.
Ohio University Inn & Conference Center
Guests at Ohio University Inn & Conference Center can appreciate it as a practical base for the easy drive to Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake.
Guests at Ohio University Inn & Conference Center may find boutique reception spaces, artisanal décor, and complimentary coffee or tea for a welcoming arrival. Accommodations typically highlight stylish décor, artisanal details, and spa-style bathrooms for a boutique-oriented guest retreat. Shared spaces may include artisanal cafés, curated cocktail bars, and eclectic lounges that reflect boutique character and comfort.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, yoga mats, laundry access, and boutique breakfast, reinforcing daily balance in boutique hospitality.
Hometown Inn Athens
From Hometown Inn Athens, the low-effort regional drive to Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake removes travel complications on any given day before the stay.
Guests at Hometown Inn Athens may encounter quick front-desk support, vending access, and complimentary parking for predictable arrival flow. Accommodations may highlight hardwood finishes, compact layouts, and rainfall showers, reinforcing comfort and style during each stay. Facilities may provide guest laundries, vending access, and compact breakfast spaces that keep routines straightforward for each stay.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, laundry access, and parking, reflecting straightforward routines during each budget stay.
Worthington of Logan
For guests in the Glouster region, Worthington of Logan is a sensible base, a position that makes for an unhurried start to the day.
Worthington of Logan typically includes an easy check-in point, nearby parking stalls, and modest seating focused on utility over formality. Rooms often feature plush bedding, modest seating, and climate control, providing consistent comfort and ease for traveling guests. Public areas typically highlight breakfast rooms, vending areas, and seating zones that emphasize simplicity across travel routines.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, vending corners, and laundry facilities, supporting clarity and ease for daily travel.
Baymont by Wyndham Logan
The journey from Baymont by Wyndham Logan to Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake is a simple commute, an advantage that helps frame a convenient and well-organized stay.
Baymont pairs desk staffing with clear wayfinding and elevator ranges, easing orientation when travelers reach check-in simultaneously. All guest rooms organize a closet or hanging rail with hangers and a luggage rack, keeping bags off floors and movement clear during stays. Elevator banks sit within clear sightlines from the desk with room-range signage, reducing backtracking as newcomers orient on day one.
From guest laundry and vending to Wi-Fi, lounge chairs, and outlets, refreshes and refuel moments fit into a single roundtrip.
Lake Logan Inn Capital O Ohio
Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake is a simple commute from Lake Logan Inn Capital O Ohio, a setup that ensures travel plans are always straightforward.
Arrivals at Lake Logan Inn Capital O Ohio may present a simple reception, self-serve coffee, and accessible parking configured for routine travel. Each guest room may include functional desks, ergonomic chairs, and Wi-Fi, supporting balance between productivity and relaxation routines. Shared spaces may present modest lobbies, vending stations, and laundry rooms that reflect the consistent focus of budget hotels.
A stay often presents Wi-Fi, parking, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, reinforcing functional balance in budget accommodations.
Sleep Inn Logan Ohio-Hocking Hills
For travelers with a wide-ranging itinerary, Sleep Inn Logan Ohio-Hocking Hills is a convenient base, keeping Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake an easy regional drive away.
Sleep Inn's seating zones sit within sight of reception, allowing families to park bags and rest briefly while details are confirmed. Every suite pairs a sitting zone, a microwave, a refrigerator and a desk to help longer stays feel practical and lightly domestic. The lobby's seating clusters are arranged near outlets and concession corners so device charging and quick snacks happen without extra steps.
With free Wi-Fi, a morning meal, an indoor pool, fitness center, meeting rooms and laundry, short stays remain functional and calm.
MainStay Suites Logan Ohio-Hocking Hills
From MainStay Suites Logan Ohio-Hocking Hills, Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake is a simple commute, a choice that makes for a well-planned trip.
MainStay Suites lines reception with hosts who summarize parking, breakfast, and Wi-Fi details so guests leave the desk ready and informed. Suites often include dishwasher drawers or dish racks, cookware, and utensils so guests can maintain simple meal routines during longer stays smoothly. Guest laundries place detergent vending and folding tables nearby, reducing friction so gear is ready before the next competition leg.
From meeting suites and catering access to Wi-Fi, business desks, and breakfast choices, events run with clear routines and minimal friction.
Holiday Inn Express Logan by IHG
The hotel's spot as a convenient base gives Holiday Inn Express Logan by IHG guests a direct way to engage with the surrounding area.
Holiday Inn Express reception spaces are consistent in design and location, ensuring orientation clarity across all property visits. Suites add sofa beds, expanded seating, and multiple TVs, offering layouts that adapt well to groups or extended-stay travelers. Pools surrounded by towel service, loungers, and family seating allow both relaxation and activity in balanced, versatile spaces.
Pet-friendly policies, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi join with laundry and parking, offering guests care and predictability daily.
Baymont by Wyndham Zanesville
When visiting the area, Baymont by Wyndham Zanesville places Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake an easy regional drive away, offering a comfortable starting point.
Café-height tables at Baymont provide a perch for quick forms and mobile boarding passes while room details settle at reception. Rooms position an HDTV with a clear channel guide and HDMI access, letting streaming sticks connect quickly over stable in-room Wi-Fi. Lobby nooks set armchairs, side tables, and power points, giving a clear perch to regroup, charge devices, and check directions before elevators.
With breakfast, steady coffee, and Wi-Fi plus a fitness room and pool where available, routines keep momentum without extra errands.
Quality Inn & Suites Zanesville City Center
The hotel's spot as a convenient base gives Quality Inn & Suites Zanesville City Center guests a direct way to manage their regional schedule.
Quality Inn frames arrival with staffed front desks and clear reception sightlines so arriving guests orient quickly and move toward rooms with ease. Guest rooms pair microwaves, mini-fridges, and single-serve coffee makers so quick meals and snacks are handled without leaving the room. Lobby cafés turn out espresso and light bites quickly, creating a sensible stop before meetings, transit, or early departures from the hotel.
With extended gym hours at many addresses, guests can squeeze in workouts before early departures or after long meeting days easily.
Hampton Inn Zanesville
The benefit of using Hampton Inn Zanesville as a convenient base turns it into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
Regional décor and curated finishes in Hampton Inn lobbies reinforce consistent identity, producing polished impressions for arrivals. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh comfortably after a day of activities. Business lounges with copy services, desks, and internet deliver consistent support, letting travelers handle work while on the road.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, indoor pools, business centers, and pet-friendly policies maintain dependable balance during visits.
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES ZANESVILLE NORTH by IHG
As a convenient base, HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES ZANESVILLE NORTH by IHG keeps Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake accessible for a simple commute, enhancing the stay.
Markets beside Holiday Inn Express reception desks stock travel essentials, helping guests manage small needs immediately upon arrival. Guest rooms include in-room coffee, mini-fridges, and bedside outlets, simplifying routines and supporting everyday convenience. Lobby lounges combining natural light, communal tables, and soft seating provide orientation points for guests upon arrival.
Business centers, reliable Wi-Fi, and breakfast service align with pools and fitness, supporting productivity and balance together.
Comfort Inn & Suites Zanesville City Center
For a visit combining key destinations, Comfort Inn & Suites Zanesville City Center is a practical base, keeping Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake an easy regional drive away.
Comfort Inn arrival seating often includes accessible outlets and table surfaces so companions charge devices and review plans while waiting. Guest rooms often include blackout drapes and gentle wake lighting to help adjust sleep schedules before early departures or late arrivals. Fitness centers feature cardio machines, free weights, and towel service with water stations, letting guests squeeze in workouts between plans.
For pet travelers, designated relief areas, pet-friendly rooms, nearby green space, and accessible parking keep routines predictable.
Super 8 by Wyndham Zanesville
The benefit of using Super 8 by Wyndham Zanesville as a convenient base makes it into a great starting point before the rest of the stay unfolds.
Seating zones with simple chairs and tables in Super 8 lobbies support regrouping and help ease transitions from travel to rest. All guest rooms highlight climate systems, blackout drapes, and plush mattresses, creating consistency for nightly rest across properties. Pools surrounded by loungers, towels, and umbrellas create leisure areas where travelers can unwind or socialize comfortably.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and pet policies pair with vending and parking, ensuring clarity and consistency for all travel groups.
Executive inn
For a visit where an easy drive is key, Executive inn is a sensible base, making travel a manageable part of the day.
Executive inn often provides an uncomplicated desk experience, on-site parking, and a compact lobby aimed at keeping wait times low. Guest rooms typically provide curated décor, hardwood accents, and in-room coffee, creating a polished yet practical overnight setting. Facilities often feature vending machines, breakfast corners, and compact business areas that support everyday productivity and ease.
Accommodations may provide Wi-Fi, vending access, laundry support, and compact breakfast rooms, helping guests maintain consistency daily.
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Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake Local Area Guide
Tom Jenkins Dam and Burr Oak Lake offer a serene escape into Ohio’s Hocking Hills region, providing a natural backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. This guide is crafted for visitors planning a trip to the area, whether for a day of fishing, a weekend camping adventure, or simply to enjoy the scenic beauty. Here, you'll find essential information to help you navigate your visit, from understanding the local landscape and planning your itinerary to discovering nearby dining and attractions. Prepare to immerse yourself in the tranquility of this cherished local gem.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake (Glouster, OH)
Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Tom Jenkins Dam and Burr Oak Lake are situated within the expansive Wayne National Forest, a vast protected area characterized by dense woodlands and rugged terrain. The dam itself forms Burr Oak Lake, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming, surrounded by picturesque state park facilities. Access to the area is primarily via state routes, with U.S. Route 33 serving as a major artery for those approaching from larger cities like Columbus to the northwest. Driving times can vary; from Columbus, expect a journey of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. The nearest significant airport is John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), also requiring a drive of similar length. Local roads leading to the dam and lake can be winding and scenic, so it’s advisable to allow ample time for transit, particularly on weekends or during peak travel seasons. Public transportation options are extremely limited in this rural setting, making personal vehicles or rideshares the most practical modes of transport for visitors. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on summer weekends, is recommended to secure preferred parking spots and enjoy the lake with fewer crowds.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake
Accommodations near Tom Jenkins Dam and Burr Oak Lake are predominantly characterized by state park campgrounds and a scattering of cabins within or adjacent to the park’s boundaries. The nearest towns offering more traditional hotel lodging are Athens, approximately 25 miles to the south, and Nelsonville, roughly 15 miles to the west. These towns provide a range of options, from budget-friendly motels to more established hotels, catering to a variety of visitor needs. While not a major urban hub, Athens, being a college town (home to Ohio University), generally has a good selection of hotels that can accommodate visitors. For those seeking a more immersive natural experience, camping within Burr Oak State Park is the most direct and popular choice, offering sites close to the lake and recreational activities. Booking accommodations, especially campsites and cabins during the summer months or around local events, is highly recommended well in advance due to moderate demand. Utilizing map filters for "near Burr Oak State Park" or "near Glouster, OH" will help identify available lodging, though expect that hotel density is lower here compared to metropolitan areas.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH): Approximately a 1.5-hour drive.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure prime parking and avoid congestion.
- Burr Oak State Park Lodge offers comfortable lodging and lake access.
- Pack rain gear and check weather forecasts for potential afternoon thunderstorms.
- The park picnic areas provide excellent spots for family regrouping.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at least 30-60 minutes before your planned activities or campsite check-in, particularly if visiting during peak season or on a weekend. This buffer allows ample time to navigate park roads, locate your destination, and secure parking without feeling rushed. Familiarize yourself with the park map in advance to pinpoint your exact location, whether it's a specific campground, picnic area, or boat launch. Traffic within the park is generally light but can slow on main park roads during busy times, so patience is key.
During the Event
Once settled, consider a leisurely stroll along the lake shore or explore one of the park's hiking trails to orient yourself. If you're planning a picnic, aim to set up before the busiest midday hours when picnic areas might become more crowded. For boaters, ensure all safety equipment is on board and familiarize yourself with any designated no-wake zones. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during warmer months, so keep water readily accessible.
Things to Do Near Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake
Walkable
Burr Oak State Park
Burr Oak State Park encompasses the area around Tom Jenkins Dam and the lake itself, offering a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing on the 668-acre reservoir, with a designated beach area for summer fun. The park features extensive hiking trails that wind through woodlands and offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding hills, catering to various fitness levels. For those looking to stay overnight, Burr Oak offers a variety of camping options, including primitive campsites and RV hookups, as well as a lodge and cabins. The park also provides picnic areas with tables and grills, making it an ideal spot for a full day of outdoor enjoyment and relaxation.
On siteTom Jenkins Dam
The Tom Jenkins Dam is the structure that creates Burr Oak Lake, and walking across its expanse offers impressive views of the water and the surrounding Hocking Hills landscape. This concrete gravity dam is a focal point for many visitors, providing a unique vantage point for photography and appreciating the engineering feat. The area around the dam is often accessible, allowing visitors to get a sense of the scale of the project and the vastness of the lake it holds back. It's a great spot for a brief exploration, offering a different perspective on the park's natural beauty and its managed water resources.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Hocking Hills State Park
While Burr Oak State Park offers its own natural beauty, the more famous Hocking Hills State Park, known for its stunning gorges, cliffs, and recess caves, is a drive of about 25-30 minutes away from Tom Jenkins Dam. This park features iconic sites such as Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls, which are popular for hiking and exploring geological wonders. The trails range from easy to moderate, guiding visitors through lush forests to breathtaking natural formations. It's a prime destination for those seeking more rugged and dramatic scenery than typically found directly at Burr Oak Lake.
12.5 miNelsonville
The historic town of Nelsonville, located just a short drive west, offers a glimpse into southeastern Ohio's past and present. Visitors can explore its charming downtown area, which features antique shops, local boutiques, and the Stuart Opera House, a beautifully restored venue for performances. Nelsonville is also known for its brick streets and turn-of-the-century architecture, providing a pleasant backdrop for a leisurely walk. The nearby Hocking Valley Scenic Railway offers train excursions through the picturesque countryside, making it a popular option for families and history buffs.
15.0 miBeyond the Event: Venturing further afield, the city of Athens provides a vibrant college-town atmosphere with Ohio University, offering additional dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. For those interested in wine, the surrounding region has several wineries that often host tastings and events. The Wayne National Forest itself offers vast opportunities for off-road vehicle use, hiking, and wildlife viewing beyond the immediate vicinity of the lake.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake
Inside & Adjacent
Burr Oak Lakeside Restaurant
Located within Burr Oak State Park, this restaurant offers convenient dining with scenic views of the lake. It's a popular spot for park visitors to enjoy a meal without having to leave the recreational area. The menu typically features American fare, suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a straightforward option for those staying at the park lodge or camping. Enjoying a meal here allows you to maximize your time spent enjoying the lake and its surrounding natural beauty.
On sitePark Concessions & Snack Bars
Throughout Burr Oak State Park, particularly during the warmer months, various concession stands and snack bars are usually operational. These outlets offer quick and easy options for grabbing a bite, such as hot dogs, ice cream, and beverages, perfect for refueling during a day of outdoor activities. They are strategically located near popular recreational areas like the beach or boat launch, ensuring convenient access for families and active visitors looking for a casual refreshment.
On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Local Eateries in Glouster
The small community of Glouster, just a short drive from the dam, offers a few local dining spots that provide a taste of small-town Ohio. These may include casual diners, pizza shops, or small family-run restaurants where you can find hearty, unpretentious meals. They are often gathering places for local residents and offer a more authentic, down-to-earth dining experience compared to options in larger towns. It’s a convenient stop for a quick lunch or a simple dinner after a day on the lake.
Glouster, OH · 3.5 miRestaurants in Nelsonville
Nelsonville, a bit further west, provides a wider array of dining choices that cater to various tastes. You’ll find everything from classic American diners and family restaurants to more unique cafes and pubs. The town center often has several places perfect for a post-activity meal or a break during a day trip. Exploring Nelsonville’s dining scene can offer a more diverse culinary experience, with options that might include local specialties or comfort food favorites.
Nelsonville, OH · 15.0 miLocal & Elevated Picks
The Dairy Bar
While slightly further into Athens, The Dairy Bar is a beloved local institution known for its delicious homemade ice cream and classic diner-style food. It’s a perfect spot for families and groups looking for a casual, fun, and affordable meal or a sweet treat. Their extensive ice cream flavors and classic burgers and fries make it a memorable stop, especially during warmer months when ice cream is a top priority. It offers a quintessential small-town American dining experience.
Athens, OH · 23.0 miCasa Nueva Restaurant and Cantina
Also in Athens, Casa Nueva is a highly-regarded restaurant offering a vibrant atmosphere and a menu focused on fresh, Southwestern-inspired cuisine with many vegetarian and vegan options. Known for its lively ambiance, craft beers, and live music on certain nights, it’s a popular destination for those seeking a more energetic dining experience. This is a great choice if you're looking to combine dinner with some evening entertainment and enjoy well-prepared, flavorful dishes in a unique setting.
Athens, OH · 23.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Cell service can be spotty throughout the park and surrounding rural areas, so download offline maps.
- Weekend afternoons often see the busiest activity at the lake, particularly near the beach and main boat launch.
- Wildlife is abundant; keep a safe distance and never feed the animals, especially deer and raccoons.
- Be aware of changing weather patterns; sudden thunderstorms are common in the region during spring and summer.
- Park entry is generally free, but specific facilities or activities may have associated fees or require reservations.
Weather & Seasons at Tom Jenkins Dam & Burr Oak Lake
- Winter: Winter temperatures in this region of Ohio typically range from the low 20s to the low 40s Fahrenheit. Days can be chilly and damp, with potential for snow and ice, especially in early winter. Visitors should pack warm layers, waterproof outerwear, hats, and gloves. Outdoor activities are limited, but the stark beauty of the frozen lake and snow-dusted woods offers a different kind of appeal; warm beverages are a must.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings mild to warm weather, with daytime temperatures often ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit. This season is characterized by frequent rain showers and rapidly greening landscapes. Visitors should pack layers, including a waterproof jacket and umbrella, as conditions can change quickly. It’s a beautiful time for hiking before the peak summer heat and humidity set in, and the lake becomes more accessible.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer (July and August) is typically the warmest period, with daytime highs often in the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, accompanied by high humidity. Evenings remain warm. Light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are essential. This is prime time for lake activities like swimming and boating, but be prepared for potential afternoon thunderstorms that can develop rapidly.
- Fall season: Fall offers pleasant, crisp weather, with daytime temperatures gradually cooling from the 70s in early autumn down to the 40s by late November. The primary draw is the stunning fall foliage, usually peaking in mid-October. Visitors should pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater, and be prepared for cooler evenings. It’s an excellent time for hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty before winter arrives.
- Rain & snow: Rainfall is common throughout the year, with thunderstorms being frequent in spring and summer, and steadier rain possible in fall and winter. Snowfall typically occurs from November through March, with accumulation varying annually but generally remaining moderate. Waterproof footwear, rain gear, and warm, water-resistant clothing are advisable year-round, especially for extended outdoor activities. Be prepared for potentially slippery conditions on trails and roads during wet or icy periods.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Not applicable (recreational lake and park)
- Neighborhood: Rural Hocking Hills region
- Nearest airport: John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
- Parking: Ample at designated park areas; can fill during peak times
- Walkable district: Burr Oak State Park trails and shoreline
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Available in Glouster, Nelsonville, or Athens
- Pharmacy: Located in Nelsonville or Athens
- Urgent care: Facilities available in Nelsonville and Athens
- Downtime: Lakeside relaxation, scenic drives, lodge amenities
- Pro tip: Check the Burr Oak State Park website for event schedules and facility status before visiting.

