In 1924, John J. Carlin saw the area's potential. The noted amusement-park developer leased the park from the Ohio Electric Railway Company. Five years later, he purchased it. Unfortunately, hard times were around the corner. In August of 1928, a chapter of the Muskingum Valley Elks held its annual family day at the park. Sadly, disaster struck when a portion of the crowded dance floor collapsed into the lake and seven people lost their lives. This soon was followed by the Great Depression in 1929 and the closure of the interurban rail line, which slowed the flow of visitors.

But all was not lost. The addition of a roller coaster -- the "Dips" -- proved to be a draw. Open skating at the Skateland roller rink was joined by skating races.

In 1933, the ending of Prohibition created new possibilities. A building that housed an old merry-go-round became a nightclub. Soon after, the Crystal ballroom and pool were added. The pool offered a variety of amenities, including bathing-suit rental and water shows hosted by the original Tarzan, Johnny Weismuller.

The Crystal and nearby Pier ballrooms hosted the entertainment stars of the day, such as Artie Shaw, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway and Duke Ellington.

At its zenith, the park would entertain as many as 50,000 visitors daily.

In 1949, when the Ohio Department of Natural Resources was established, Buckeye Lake became an officially designated state park. The park office was first located right inside the park, surrounded by the privately owned amusements.

As the '60s neared, the park steadily declined. In perhaps a sign of the times, in 1958 a cable on the "Dips" coaster gave way, and three cars slipped, injuring several riders. The Crystal pool deteriorated and began to leak. Not long after, it was used as a trash dump.

An attempted revitalization in 1969, which saw the creation of a country western music amphitheater and rides, fell flat. The experience squelched any further developer interest. In the early '70s, the Pier dance hall and a former amusement ride caught fire.