West Branch

West Branch State Park's large 2,650-acre lake with its many forks and coves is extremely popular with fishermen, boaters and swimmers. The park's 5,379-acres of meadows and woodlots provide an excellent backdrop for camping, hiking and horseback riding. West Branch State Park is located on the west branch of the Mahoning River in Portage County. The river was named for the Delaware Indian word mahonink meaning "at the salt lick". In early days, a salt works was located southeast of present-day Warren along the river. The salt, which attracted a variety of wildlife, was harvested by Indians and early settlers.