Lagoon Deer Park | Sandusky

Lagoon Deer Park, located in Sandusky, Ohio, is a seasonal outdoor recreational park and petting zoo that offers visitors a chance to interact closely with a wide variety of animals and enjoy fishing in stocked lagoons. Established in the mid-20th century, it has grown into a beloved family destination blending wildlife experiences with fishing and shopping in a relaxed, natural setting.

Location and Setting

The park sits at 1012 Martins Point Road, just outside downtown Sandusky, surrounded by lush greenery and natural ponds. The environment is designed to feel welcoming and safe for both animals and visitors, creating an engaging outdoor experience ideal for families and animal lovers.

Animals and Petting Zoo

Lagoon Deer Park is home to more than 200 animals from diverse species around the world, making it a miniature wildlife sanctuary and petting zoo. Visitors can walk along gravel paths that wind through open areas and enclosures, interacting with friendly animals, feeding them, and learning about their habits. The animal residents include:

Deer and Elk: The park’s namesake animals roam freely or in spacious pens where guests can feed and observe them closely.

Llamas and Miniature Donkeys: Popular for their gentle temperament, these animals are favorites among children.

Goats, Sheep, and Alpacas: Visitors can hand-feed these familiar farm animals in designated areas.

Exotic Birds: Including peacocks and other colorful species adding visual interest and lively sounds.

Other Animals: The park may also feature other species such as rabbits and pot-bellied pigs depending on the season.

Animal feed is available for purchase on-site in small bags priced between $1 and $5, encouraging interactive feeding experiences under supervision.

Fishing Facilities

The park includes four shaded lagoons stocked with a variety of fish species, making it a popular local spot for recreational fishing without the need for a fishing license. Fish species include:

Rainbow trout

Crappies

Muskies

Bass

Bluegills

Visitors bring their own fishing poles and bait. The park offers night fishing on Fridays and Saturdays, providing a different experience under the stars.

Amenities and Services

Gift Shop: Lagoon Deer Park features a gift shop selling a range of items such as antique cigar store Indian statues, Cherokee handcrafts, collectibles, jewelry, and sportswear for all ages.

Picnic Areas: There are shaded picnic spots throughout the park for families to relax and enjoy a meal.

Restrooms: Facilities are available for visitor convenience.

Parking: Ample free parking is available on-site.

Hours and Admission

Season: Open from May through November, accommodating the warmer months and early fall.

Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though hours may vary slightly depending on the season.

Admission Fees:

Adults: $10

Children (ages 3–12): $6

Children under 3: Free

Fishing: Adults $9, Children $6

Seniors receive a 10% discount on admission.

Visitor Experience and Tips

Family-Friendly: Lagoon Deer Park is especially suited for families with children, offering safe, hands-on animal encounters and easy walking paths.

Comfortable Footwear: Because the park involves outdoor walking over gravel and grass paths, comfortable shoes are recommended.

Bring Fishing Gear: If you plan to fish, bring your own poles and bait, as none are provided on-site.

Animal Safety: Feeding animals should be done only with purchased feed, and visitors are encouraged to respect the animals and follow staff instructions.

Group Visits: The park can accommodate groups and is a good spot for birthday parties or school field trips; booking ahead is recommended.

Summary

Lagoon Deer Park is a charming and relaxed destination blending animal interaction and fishing in a scenic natural setting near Sandusky. It provides an engaging, educational, and enjoyable outing for visitors of all ages, especially families seeking a hands-on wildlife experience outside of traditional zoos. Its combination of a diverse animal collection, stocked fishing lagoons, and a unique gift shop makes it a distinctive attraction in the Sandusky area.