Fort Loramie, Ohio
- Trail Town dedication
- Sep 1, 2023
- Section
- St. Marys
- Chapter
- Miami and Erie Canal Chapter
- County
- Shelby
- Page last updated
- Nov 10, 2025
About Fort Loramie, Ohio
Fort Loramie, located 42 miles north-northwest of Dayton, began as a fur trading post in 1769 and later became a U.S. fort built after the Treaty of Greenville. Archaeological excavations in 2013 and 2021 rediscovered the original trading post and fort sites, cementing the village’s rich historic legacy.
History and Geography
German immigrants settled the area during the construction of the Miami and Erie Canal in the 1830s, and the town flourished until railroads made the canal obsolete. The canal was transformed into Canal Park, while its reservoir became Lake Loramie State Park.
Why You Should Visit
Fort Loramie is a village of “hometown charm.” Rich in history with a welcoming atmosphere, the village makes for a nice stopover for the hiker or outdoor enthusiast enjoying Lake Loramie.
Outdoor recreation opportunities
- Hiking: In addition to the Buckeye Trail, Lake Loramie State Park offers more than eight miles of trails for enjoyment.
- Biking: Flat terrain and quiet county roads make it suitable for bikers.
- Kayaking/Canoeing: Lake Loramie has six launch ramps providing access to the lake. One of these ramps is an all-abilities launch, making it easier for those with mobility challenges to get out and enjoy the water. Registered campers at Lake Loramie may rent kayaks or canoes. Kiosks for kayak and paddle rental are also available.
- Fishing: Lake Loramie provides a variety of fish for anglers: crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, bullheads, carp, and fair numbers of largemouth bass.
- Birding: Lake Loramie is a great location for birding; the best seasons for viewing are during the south-to-north migration in May/June and the north-to-south migration in September/October.
Lodging
- Vacation Rentals: There are numerous Vrbo and Airbnb bookings in the Fort Loramie area.
- Hotels: Fort Loramie Dairy King and Motel →
Community and tourism links
Events
- Liberty Days: Annual Fourth of July Festival.
- Summer Gazebo Party: Held every August.
- German Heritage Days: A two-day celebration in September featuring great food, cold drinks, and spirited competitions.
- Country Concert: Held annually in July, Country Concert is a three-day event on 500 acres with camping available. The Midwest’s premier music and camping festival offers superstar entertainment, great camping, and fun-loving people.
- Lake Loramie Fall Harvest Festival: Held every September at Lake Loramie State Park.
Places to visit
- The Wilderness Trail Museum: Owned and operated by the Fort Loramie Historical Association.
- Lake Loramie Welcome Center →
- St. Michael Catholic Church: The church appears today much as it did 125 years ago, with its beautiful carved wood high altar and two side altars. The original bells still toll from the tower. The pipe organ has been enhanced to over 1,100 pipes, the lighting has been modernized, and in 2007 the heating system was upgraded and air conditioning added.
- The Loramie Brewing Company →
- Al’s Place Bar and Grille →
- Keyhole Pizza →
- Bruckens Neighborhood Pub →
- Dairy King: Ice cream and treats.
- Morrie’s Landing →
Trail Town news
Amenities
- Public Camping Area: Lake Loramie State Park is a half mile east of the village.
- Access to restrooms: Available in Community Park, Lake Loramie State Park, and convenience and gas stations throughout the village.
- Shower availability: Available at Lake Loramie State Park.
- Grocery store: Shafer Market, 200 S. Main Street. Dollar General, 500 S. Main Street.
- Post office: 13 E. Park St., Fort Loramie, OH 45845
- Outdoor store: Dollar General and Fort Loramie Hardware Store may have supplies.
- Bike pump and/or repair kit: Dollar General and Fort Loramie Hardware Store may have supplies.
- Food options: Fort Loramie Dairy King and Motel, Al’s Place Bar and Grill, Morrie’s Landing, Fort Loramie Brewing Company, Brucken’s Neighborhood Pub
