East Harbor State Park: Of Sea Monsters and Sunken Ghost Ships

Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, East Harbor State Park is a true gem, boasting a picturesque beach that enchants visitors with its stunning vistas of the shimmering water. As you spread your beach towel on the warm sand, the gentle lapping of waves invites you to unwind and soak up the sun’s golden rays. Beyond the beach, the park features a network of well-kept trails that meander through lush greenery, ideal for both casual walkers and avid hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you choose to stroll leisurely along the sun-kissed shoreline or embark on a more invigorating adventure through verdant woodlands, East Harbor offers an idyllic setting sure to delight outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. However, be cautious. Just a stone’s throw away from all that “sugar and spice and everything nice,” there lies a darker side to East Harbor.

Lake Erie Bessie, Legendary Lake Monster

For those with a spirit of adventure, the park serves as a fascinating vantage point for spotting the legendary Lake Erie Monster, affectionately known as “Bessie.” Since the 19th century, locals and visitors have shared tales of glimpsing this mysterious creature from the shores of Marblehead, Lakeside, and East Harbor itself, where she is said to frolic alongside passing boats. Bessie is often depicted as a serpentine figure, stretching an impressive 30 to 40 feet in length and measuring about a foot in width. Her appearance can be striking, displaying shimmering copper, silvery, or gray hues. With a head reminiscent of a dog and a body adorned with elongated fins, she evokes comparisons to ancient marine reptiles like Plesiosaurs, adding an air of myth and intrigue to Lake Erie.

Lake Erie Ghost Ships

As if the allure of Bessie isn’t enough, the waters of Lake Erie also conceal stories of lost ships and restless spirits. Its shallow depths and fierce storms have historically turned the lake into a watery grave for countless vessels caught unprepared. On fog-laden nights, local legends whisper of ghost ships that materialize from the mist, their spectral forms echoing the tales of sailors claimed by the lake. Among these stories lies the haunting account of quarry miners who met a tragic fate in a mining accident during the 1840s. Their untimely deaths are said to have cursed the very waters they traversed, leading to the tragic disappearance of ships and the sorrowful spirits that now linger in the depths of Lake Erie.

East Harbor State Park and Lake Erie

Nearby Visits:

Fairport Harbor Lighthouse: Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake County, Fairport Harbor Lighthouse stands tall as a radiant beacon of safety, guiding countless ships and sailors through the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes.

Headlands Beach-Ohio’s longest beach

Johnson’s Island– Confederate Civil War Cemetery.

Maumee Bay State Park– Maumee Bay State Park is a popular destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The park features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and birdwatching, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of Maumee Bay and the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.

Kelleys Island and Middle Bass Island, nestled amidst the shimmering expanse of Lake Erie, have long captivated the imaginations of locals and visitors alike with their legendary tales of mysterious lights.

Cedar Point is a 364-acre amusement park located on a Lake Erie peninsula in Sandusky, Ohio owned and operated by Six Flags. Features a private mile-long beach. It opened in 1870 and is considered the second-oldest operating amusement park in the US. Cear Point is the largest amusement ride park in the world as it offers over 150 rides (including 17 roller coasters), shows, and attractions.

The African Safari Wildlife Park is a drive through wildlife park in Port Clinton, Ohio. Visitors can drive through the 65-acre preserve and watch and feed the animals from their car.

The Watering Hole – Ohio Safari Zoo and Waterpark is an indoor/outdoor family fun center with waterslides, a go-kart track, an arcade & a mini-golf course.

Catawba Island State park near Port Clinton serves as the main headquarters for the Lake Erie Islands state parks (including Kelleys Island, South Bass and Oak Point), and provides a fishing pier, launch ramp, picnic shelter and picnic areas for day-use visitors

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, west of Port Clinton, is one of the state’s foremost birding areas and is notable for its spring and fall bird migrations

East Harbor State Park on Marblehead Peninsula sports the largest campground in the Ohio state park system • Swimming, picnicking, boating and fishing are popular at East Harbor

Marblehead Lighthouse, built in 1821, is the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation of the Great Lakes and Ohio’s 73rd state park • It is located off S.R. 163 on the east side of the Village of Marblehead

Ohio State nature preserves located in the area include  Sheldon Marsh, Old Woman Creek, Erie Sand Barrens, and DuPont Marsh

For more information on area attractions, visit

Lake Erie Shores & Islands Welcome Center(s) 

South Bass Island (Put in Bay) South Bass Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and rich history. The island boasts picturesque landscapes featuring lush green parks, scenic waterfronts, and breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Visitors can explore charming shops and local eateries in the quaint village of Put-in-Bay, which serves as a hub for tourists.

Additionally, the island offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, hiking, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically significant sites, such as the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, also highlight the island’s importance in American history. Overall, South Bass Island is a captivating spot for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a glimpse into the region’s past.

Click here for Ferries to Middle Bass and Put in Bay

If you don’t have your own boat, 2 privately operated ferries offer frequent daily service:

For more detailed info about Miller Ferry, please click here!

Miller Boat Line offers service for cars, RVS, bicyclists, & pedestrians from the mainland at Catawba • visit www.millerferry.com or call 800-500-2421 for information

The Jet Express offers service for pedestrians from Port Clinton and Sandusky • visit www.jet-express.com or call 800-245-1538 for information