Grand Lake St. Marys was originally dug by hand as a feeder reservoir for the Miami and Erie Canal, and it was the world's largest reservoir when it was built. The St. Marys River was a vital link between the Great Lakes and the Ohio River, so the region played an important role in opening the Northwest Territory. Today the park offers 52 miles of shoreline for boating and fishing, a family campground, a swimming pool and picnic areas. The off-peak camping season runs from November 1 to April 1, when electric service is available in the first loop, a dump station is available and a water hydrant is near the main office.