Top 4 Lakes around Mansfield
Best lakes around Mansfield, Ohio, and its surrounding areas offer a variety of recreational activities and natural beauty. The region features several notable lakes, including those managed by the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District. These locations provide opportunities for outdoor pursuits such as boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. The landscape is characterized by a mix of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, supporting diverse ecosystems.
Best lakes around Mansfield
- The most popular lakes is Shirebrook Wood, a cycle way that features gravel loops through woods and past fishing ponds. It connects to the Archeological Trail and Route 648, leading to Sherwood Forest.
- Another must-see spot is Spa Ponds Bridleway, a trail that runs through the Spa Ponds Nature Reserve. Visitors can expect a hardpacked dirt trail, suitable for cycling, though some sections may require care in wet conditions.
- Visitors also love The Hermitage Local Nature Reserve, a forest area dominated by a disused millpond. This site is known for its mature deciduous woodland and ancient woodland indicators like Wood Anemone and Bluebell.
- Mansfield is known for boating, fishing, and nature reserve lakes. The area offers a variety of lakes for activities ranging from quiet fishing to family-friendly camping and water sports.
- The lakes around Mansfield are appreciated by the komoot community, with 5 highlights, 30 photos, and 69 upvotes.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Shirebrook Wood
Highlight • Cycleway
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The Hermitage Local Nature Reserve
Highlight • Forest
The reserve is dominated by the disused millpond of Hermitage Mill, which is surrounded by mature deciduous woodland of Ash, Oak with the occasional Holly and Yew and with ancient woodland indicators such as Wood Anemone, Bluebell, Lesser Celandine and Dogs Mercury.
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Spa Ponds Bridleway
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Berry Hill Park
Highlight • Natural
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L Lake at Rainworth Water
Highlight • Lake
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Popular around Mansfield
Tips from the Community
Berry Hill Park, known for its steep coal mining history, sits within around 25 hectares of parkland with a diverse mix of woodlands, mown grassland, acid-grassland and wildflower meadows.
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Rainworth Water is a watercourse that is a tributary of the River Maun near Rainworth, Nottinghamshire, England. It is characterised by a number of lakes, including that which forms part of the country park at Rufford Abbey. L Lake at Rainworth forms part of the Rainworth Lakes Site of Special Scientific Interest. There are two designated Local Nature Reserves along its length, one of which is also known by the name Rainworth Water. The Rainworth Water LNR is owned and managed by Nottinghamshire County Council.
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Located between Mansfield and Bolsover, this picturesque woodland is rapidly developing into one of the most attractive wildlife sites in the region. With its mixture of mature broadleaf woodland, newly planted trees, large open meadows and a scenic wetland valley, Shirebrook Wood offers something for everybody.
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As a former pit top site, Shirebrook Wood has been reclaimed & redeveloped with large-scale planting of native shrubs and trees and the whole site has been totally landscaped, The Derbyshire side (West) has been turned into an Industrial Estate.
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This small nature reserve used to be part of Hermitage House gardens and is so called because it is believed in Tudor times the Bishop of St David’s used the location as a religious retreat. The site was given to the council in 1986 by a Mrs Valance as an open space for the benefit of the people of Mansfield and was given the status of Local Nature Reserve in 2004. The reserve is dominated by the disused millpond of Hermitage Mill, which is surrounded by mature deciduous woodland of Ash, Oak with the occasional Holly and Yew and with ancient woodland indicators such as Wood Anemone, Bluebell, Lesser Celandine and Dogs Mercury.
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Lovely stretch of bridleway that runs through the Spa Ponds Nature Reserve. It's a pretty easy-going hardpacked dirt trail, although there are one or two short sections where you'll need to take a bit of care if you're on a tourer or gravel bike. Can get muddy when it's wet.
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A stones throw from the train station; A short ride from Mansfield Woodhouse. Shirebrook Wood is a number of gravel loops up through the woods, past the fishing ponds behind Sports Direct. It also connects to the Archeological Trail which takes you to Creswell and on to Clumber Park as well as Route 648 which takes you into Sherwood Forest
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of recreational activities can I enjoy at the lakes around Mansfield?
The lakes around Mansfield offer a wide range of activities including boating, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, and swimming. You can find specific options like an on-lake waterpark at Pleasant Hill Lake, disc golf at Clearfork Marina, and various nature programs and events at Charles Mill Lake and Pleasant Hill Lake.
Are there good places for boating and fishing near Mansfield?
Yes, several lakes are excellent for boating and fishing. Charles Mill Lake has a 10 HP maximum limit, making it ideal for fishing and gentle cruising. Pleasant Hill Lake allows unlimited horsepower boating. Clearfork Reservoir is known for Largemouth Bass and Muskie, while Carpenter Waterfowl Park offers fishing for Pike and Catfish. Public boat launch ramps are available at Charles Mill Lake and Pleasant Hill Lake.
What are some family-friendly lake destinations in the Mansfield area?
Pleasant Hill Lake Park is an ideal family getaway with an on-lake waterpark, kids' adventure camps, and themed events. North Lake Park offers a paved hiking trail, playground, and picnic areas. Walton Lake is great for families with swimming and a large pavilion. Additionally, Berry Hill Park and L Lake at Rainworth Water are also noted as family-friendly.
Where can I find hiking trails around the Mansfield lakes?
Many lakes offer hiking opportunities. Pleasant Hill Lake Park boasts over 60 miles of trails. Clearfork Marina & Campground also has hiking trails. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes around Mansfield, including moderate trails like the King's Mill Reservoir East End loop. Find more hiking routes in the Hiking around Mansfield guide.
Are there options for camping near Mansfield's lakes?
Yes, camping is a popular option. Charles Mill Lake offers over 350 campsites. Pleasant Hill Lake Park provides premium camping, newly renovated full hook-up campsites, and deluxe log cabins, some of which are pet-friendly. Clearfork Marina & Campground is also well-regarded for its camping facilities, and Lake Maria is known for long-term RV camping.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding parks are rich in wildlife. Carpenter Waterfowl Park features over sixty acres of wetlands, meadows, and forests, making it a top destination for bird watching. North Lake Park is also great for bird watching and observing small wildlife. The Hermitage Local Nature Reserve is known for its mature deciduous woodland and ancient woodland indicators like Wood Anemone and Bluebell.
What makes Charles Mill Lake a popular destination?
Charles Mill Lake is considered one of central Ohio's premier boating and outdoor destinations. It's known for its quieter atmosphere due to a 10 HP maximum boat limit, making it excellent for fishing and gentle cruising. The park offers extensive camping, hiking, biking, and a full-service marina, with a schedule of activities from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What activities are available at Pleasant Hill Lake Park?
Pleasant Hill Lake Park is a vibrant family destination offering unlimited horsepower boating, an on-lake waterpark, kayaking tours, and special themed events. Visitors can also enjoy premium camping, deluxe log cabins, and over 60 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding.
Are there any lakes with historical significance or unique natural features?
Yes, The Hermitage Local Nature Reserve is dominated by a disused millpond and is believed to have been a religious retreat in Tudor times. Berry Hill Park has a steep coal mining history and features a diverse mix of woodlands and wildflower meadows. Shirebrook Wood, a former pit top site, has been redeveloped with large-scale planting and landscaped areas.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Mansfield?
Many parks and lakes, such as Charles Mill Lake and Pleasant Hill Lake, host a full schedule of activities and events from Memorial Day through Labor Day, making summer a lively time to visit. However, the natural beauty of the woodlands and wetlands can be enjoyed year-round for quieter activities like hiking and bird watching.
Are there dog-friendly activities or trails around the Mansfield lakes?
Many outdoor areas around Mansfield's lakes are dog-friendly, especially for hiking. Pleasant Hill Lake Park offers pet-friendly deluxe log cabins and trails. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and check specific park regulations before visiting. You can find various dog-friendly trails in the Hiking around Mansfield guide.
Where can I find accommodation or dining options near the lakes?
Accommodation options range from extensive camping facilities and cabins at Charles Mill Lake and Pleasant Hill Lake to long-term RV camping at Lake Maria. While specific dining options vary, many lake parks offer concessions during peak seasons. For a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, you'll find options in the nearby towns and communities surrounding the lakes.
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