Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter

For us Ohioans, our state offers a wealth of natural beauty and historical significance, often intertwined in unexpected and delightful ways. When planning an outdoor gathering, a family picnic, or simply a day to connect with both nature and history, a truly unique destination stands out: the Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter. Located in Pedro, this isn't just any picnic spot; it's a place where the echoes of Ohio's industrial past meet the tranquility of the Wayne National Forest, creating a backdrop for memorable moments.

The Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, named for the historic Vesuvius Iron Furnace, is a premier developed recreation site within the Wayne National Forest. The Furnace Shelter, specifically, provides a fantastic base for day-use activities. It offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while also delving into a significant piece of Ohio’s history. Many of us appreciate learning more about the heritage of our home state, and this area provides a tangible link to the iron-making era that shaped this region.

What makes the Furnace Shelter particularly appealing to locals? It's the thoughtful combination of amenities and its historical context. Imagine gathering with friends and family, enjoying a meal under the shelter, all while being just above the ruins of the historic Vesuvius Furnace. This isn't a static historical marker; it's an immersive experience where you can reflect on the past while creating new memories in the present. The facility is designed to accommodate groups, making it ideal for family reunions, community events, or simply a large gathering of friends who appreciate the outdoors.

Beyond the shelter itself, the entire Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area provides a vast playground for outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, or perhaps a bit of fishing in the beautiful Lake Vesuvius, everything is within easy reach. The area's natural beauty, combined with its historical significance and well-maintained facilities, makes the Furnace Shelter a standout choice for us Ohioans looking for a day trip or an event venue that offers more than just a place to sit. It truly blends recreation with education, offering a rich experience for all ages.

One delightful aspect that visitors have shared is the presence of the local wildlife. Imagine having friendly ducks follow you around, eager for a healthy snack (and yes, we've learned that oats are better than bread for our feathered friends!). This interaction with nature adds an extra layer of charm to an already beautiful setting, making every visit a little more special and reminding us of the simple joys of being outdoors in Ohio.

The Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter is conveniently located in Pedro, OH 45659, USA, within the larger Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area of the Wayne National Forest. Its exact position is just above the historic Vesuvius Furnace ruins and south of Lake Vesuvius itself. To reach the shelter, travelers should head approximately 6.5 miles north of Ironton, Ohio, just off State Route 93. From State Route 93, turn onto County Road 29 and follow the signs for about 1 mile to the Recreation Area. The Furnace Shelter is situated just past the main entrance to the recreation area on the right, directly across from the lake. While vehicles must stay in the designated parking area and are not permitted to drive up to the shelter house, the overall accessibility to this day-use area is straightforward for visitors coming from various parts of Ohio. Its placement within the Wayne National Forest ensures a scenic journey and a peaceful destination, providing a sense of escape while remaining manageable for a day trip.

• Picnic Shelter: A large, reservable day-use picnic shelter with a capacity of up to 125 people.
• Electricity: The Furnace Shelter is equipped with electricity, a valuable amenity for events and gatherings.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at the shelter (water is turned off during winter months, typically November 1st to March 31st).
• Cooking Grills: Grills are provided for outdoor cooking and barbecuing.
• Picnic Tables: Ample picnic tables are available within the shelter for group dining.
• Ballfield: A ballfield is part of the picnic area, offering space for recreational games.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater is located nearby, providing a potential space for presentations, ceremonies, or performances.
• Restrooms: Flush toilets are available at the site (closed in winter months; closest toilet in winter is at the boat ramp).
• Hiking Trail Access: Close proximity to various hiking trails within the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area.

• Historic Significance: Sits directly above the ruins of the historic Vesuvius Iron Furnace, offering a unique blend of recreation and Ohio history. The furnace, built in 1833, was a pivotal part of the Hanging Rock Iron Region.
• Ample Group Capacity: With a 125-person capacity, it's ideal for large family reunions, organizational picnics, school outings, or community events.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Located within the scenic Wayne National Forest, providing a picturesque backdrop of rugged hills, rock outcroppings, and lush woodlands.
• Proximity to Lake Vesuvius: Offers easy access to the 143-acre Lake Vesuvius for fishing (bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill), non-motorized boating, and swimming at Big Bend beach.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Visitors have noted interactions with local wildlife, such as ducks, enhancing the natural experience.
• Outdoor Recreation Hub: Connects to a vast network of over 25 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of horseback riding trails within the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area.
• Well-Equipped Day-Use Area: Provides essential amenities like electricity, drinking water, grills, and picnic tables for a comfortable group experience.

As a facility managed by the Wayne National Forest, the Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter operates under a standard fee structure set by the U.S. Forest Service. The shelter is available for reservation, with a daily fee of $42. Reservations can be made online through Recreation.gov or by calling the National Recreation Reservation Service toll-free at 1-877-444-6777 (please note a reservation fee may apply). If the shelter is not reserved for a particular day, it may be used on a first-come, first-served basis, with a fee of $42 (or $50 according to some sources) to be paid at the Iron Ridge Campground fee tube. While there aren't traditional "promotions" like discounts or bundled packages, the cost-effective daily rate makes it an affordable option for large group gatherings in a beautiful, well-maintained setting. The acceptance of federal recreation passes (like the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, Senior Pass, Access Pass) may also provide benefits for eligible individuals within the broader Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, though these typically apply more directly to camping fees or general access rather than specific shelter rentals. For the most precise and current information on fees and availability, it is always recommended to check Recreation.gov or contact the Ironton Ranger District of the Wayne National Forest directly.

Address: Pedro, OH 45659, USA (within Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area)

For Reservations: Visit

www.recreation.gov

For General Inquiries (Ironton Ranger District, Wayne National Forest): (740) 534-6500

For us Ohioans, the Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter offers a truly unique and highly suitable destination for a wide range of outdoor activities and gatherings. Its strategic location within the Wayne National Forest, combined with its rich historical significance, makes it a place that resonates deeply with our appreciation for both nature and heritage.

What sets this shelter apart for locals is its dual appeal: it’s not just a functional picnic spot, but also a living history lesson. Being able to gather and celebrate amidst the ruins of the Vesuvius Iron Furnace provides a tangible connection to the ingenuity and industry that shaped our region. This blend of natural beauty and historical context enriches any visit, making it more than just a casual outing, but an opportunity to reflect on Ohio's past while enjoying its present.

The shelter's capacity for up to 125 people, coupled with amenities like electricity, drinking water, and grills, makes it an ideal venue for a multitude of local events. Whether it's a large family reunion, a church picnic, a corporate retreat, or a community event, the Furnace Shelter provides the infrastructure to host it comfortably. The adjacent ballfield and amphitheater further enhance its utility, offering spaces for recreation and presentations, which are invaluable for organized gatherings.

Moreover, the surrounding Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area acts as an enormous backyard playground. With extensive hiking trails, opportunities for fishing and non-motorized boating on the picturesque lake, and wildlife viewing, there's no shortage of activities to complement a day at the shelter. This accessibility to diverse outdoor recreation, all within a reasonable driving distance for many Ohioans, solidifies its status as a local favorite.

In essence, the Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter isn't just a convenient spot; it's a testament to Ohio's natural splendor and historical depth. It offers a perfect blend of comfort, utility, and immersive experience, making it an excellent choice for any Ohioan looking to host a memorable outdoor event or simply enjoy a day of history and nature with loved ones.

Lake Vesuvius Picnic Areas - Furnace Shelter

Pedro, OH 45659, USA