In the 1970's, an entrepreneur constructed Timbre Ridge Lake and hoped to develop a resort and sell individual lots to interested citizens. His dreams did not materialize, but fortunately, the Forest Service was able to acquire Timbre Ridge Lake in 1991. Over 1,000 acres of National Forest land surrounds the lake. Just a handful of private lots remain today, clustered near the lake's dam. Visitors are reminded to respect private property while visiting Timbre Ridge Lake.

You can fish for largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and rainbow trout at Timbre Ridge. The Ohio Division of Wildlife stocks channel catfish every other fall. The rainbow trout stocking program depends on availability of fish, so it is a year-to-year program.

Recent improvements have included the construction of a new concrete boat ramp, restrooms, and an improved parking area. Woody structure was added to the lake to improve fisheries habitat in 2000 and 2001.