Dow Lake is a 161-acre body of water within Strouds Run State Park in Athens County, Ohio. The lake features 6.4 miles of shoreline surrounded by forested hills and deep ravines characteristic of the unglaciated Appalachian Plateau. Maximum depth reaches 33 feet.

A public boat launch ramp is located at the northeastern edge of the lake, with three tie-up stakes and a seasonal kayak storage rack available. The Strouds Run Boathouse offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals during spring, summer, and fall seasons. Non-motorized vessels can launch from any location except the swimming beach area.

The lake has a 10-horsepower limit for motorized vessels. One designated area is available for swimming from boats. Life jackets are required for children under 10, and recommended for all paddlers. To rent paddling vessels, paddlers must be at least 16 years old, or 12-15 with an adult signing the registration form.

The surrounding landscape features dense stands of beech, hickory, oak, maple and tuliptree, providing scenic views and fall foliage. Wildlife commonly seen includes white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various songbirds like woodthrush, scarlet tanager, and pileated woodpecker.

Facilities include a 700-foot swimming beach with changing rooms, drinking water, and restrooms on the east side of the lake. The boathouse sells basic supplies including drinks, snacks, and ice cream. Three picnic areas with shelters are available around the lake.

The lake was created in 1960 and named after C.L. Dow of Ohio University, who helped initiate the project. The surrounding park property was originally purchased by the state between 1948 and 1953 for forest conservation purposes.