You don’t need to leave Ohio to enjoy a beach day—but if you’re diving into the water to escape this late-July heat wave, there’s something you need to know: nearly 30 beaches across the state are under advisory warnings due to high bacteria levels or toxic algae blooms, according to the Ohio Department of Health’s Beachguard site (as of July 23).
Dangerous Waters: Bacteria Advisories in Effect
As of July 23, 18 beaches have been flagged for unsafe levels of bacteria. These advisories are especially important for young children, the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Here are the beaches where swimming is not recommended:
Ashtabula County
- Lakeshore Park (Lake Erie)
Athens County
- Strouds Run (Dow Lake)
- Lake White (Lake White)
Clermont County
- Camp Denison Municipal Park (Little Miami River)
- Izaak Walton League Loveland (Little Miami River)
- New Richmond Boat Ramp (Ohio River)
Clinton County
- Cowan Lake Camp
- Cowan Lake Camp Main
Erie County
- Darby Creek (Lake Erie)
- Crystal Lake Club (Lake Erie)
- Bay View West (Lake Erie)
- Bay View East (Lake Erie)
- Pickerel Creek (Lake Erie)
Muskingum County
- Dillon-Swimmers (Dillon)
Ottawa County
- Catawba Point Association (Lake Erie)
Preble County
- Hueston Woods (Acton Lake)
Ross County
- Paint Creek (Paint Creek)
Summit County
- Silver Lake Estates (Silver Lake)
- Akron Rotary Camp (Rex Lake)
- Wyoga Lake (Wyoga Lake)
Warren County
- Caesar Creek North
- Caesar Creek South
Toxic Algae: Grand Lake St. Marys a Hotspot
The Ohio Department of Health has also confirmed toxic algal blooms at four beaches in Auglaize County. These sites should be completely avoided:
- Grand Lake St. Marys Camp
- Grand Lake St. Marys Camp Main West
- Grand Lake St. Marys Camp Main East
- Grand Lake St. Marys Camp Windy Point
What Are Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)?
Not all green algae are dangerous. But some—known as cyanobacteria—release harmful toxins into the water. These harmful algal blooms (HABs) can cause damage to the liver, nervous system, and skin if they are touched or ingested.
If you see discolored water, scum, or warning signs, do not swim in the area. When in doubt, stay out.
Final Reminder
There’s no cure or treatment for illnesses caused by these bacteria or toxins. Your best defense? Avoid risky water, use bug spray, and stay updated with the ODH Beachguard website.
Ohio’s beaches are beautiful—but don’t trade your health for a swim. Be aware, stay safe, and choose your splash spots wisely this summer.