Photo by Ron Sinfelt

For that sublime blend of fishing and family that makes for a great summer vacation, Ohio is the place to be. With 2.25 million-acre Lake Erie, 451 miles of the Ohio River, 40,000 miles of streams, more than 200 inland lakes and countless ponds, the Buckeye State is sure to have what you're looking for in the way of fabulous fishing destinations.

Ohio's well-organized state parks and multitude of family-friendly activities make it a premier place for vacationing families to relax, share an adventure and learn something new.

Campsite options include tenting, RV pads with electricity, sewer and water hookups, teepees, cabins, Rent-A-RVs, resort lodges and yurts. For the full lowdown on Ohio's state-run facilities, visit the state parks Web site at www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks, or call 1-866-644-6727.

Here's a sampling of family fishing vacation destinations to consider as you plan your 2005 vacation in the Buckeye State.

GENEVA STATE PARK
Perched on the shore of Lake Erie at the northeastern tip of the state, Geneva is perfect for families who want to explore the great lake. The 698-acre park has three miles of hiking trails, 300 feet of beach, 88 campsites, 12 cabins -- and access to all that water!

Lake Erie is known as the "Walleye Capital of the World," and a top spot for noteworthy smallmouth bass and yellow perch fishing. Erie is also good for channel catfish. Steelhead trout and white bass are also plentiful. Spots long recognized as providing good angler action include the Lake Erie islands, the western basin reef complex, Sandusky Bay, Ruggles Reef and harbor break walls from Lorain to Conneaut. In season, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources provides frequently updated recorded fishing reports at 1-888-HOOKFISH.

The park office loans games and sporting equipment, and there is a privately owned golf course nearby. The east break wall of the park marina is capped with a sidewalk providing panoramic views of the lake. Explore the freshwater marshes, estuaries and mature woodlots in the park while hiking the trails.

There are 12 scenic covered bridges in Ashtabula County. The Conneaut Railroad, Shandy Hall and Jenny Munger Memorial museums will interest history buffs.

For more information about area attractions and lodging, call the Ashtabula County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-800-337-6746.

HARRISON LAKE STATE PARK
For an inland lake experience, Harrison Lake is ideal. This 142-acre park in the northwest region of Ohio has 42 primitive campsites, 151 with electricity, two yurts, a beach, a nature center and summer nature programs.

Harrison Lake features good catches of largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappies, bluegills, bullheads and channel catfish, northern pike and even carp. A boat ramp is available. The lake is restricted to electric motors only.

A 3.5-mile hiking trail circles the lake, offering plenty of chances to explore the surrounding woodlands. Bike and boat rentals are available. There are volleyball and basketball courts and horseshoe pits. The camp has a playground. Games and sports equipment can be borrowed from the camp office. Harrison sits in what was once a vast wetland. Great blue herons and common egrets are often spotted at the shallow western end of the lake.

A variety of songbirds may be seen and heard in the meadows and woodlands. The park is also home to several species of reptiles and amphibians. Small mammals, including red foxes, raccoons, skunks and the rare 13-lined ground squirrel, are often seen.

Area attractions include the Sauder Museum, Farm and Craft Village near Archbold. The 15-acre complex features a 1860s-era house and barn and a village where traditional crafters display their skills. The museum contains antique tools and farming equipment. A restaurant featuring country-style meals is in the barn.