Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a proclamation recognizing April 22 to April 30 as Ohio State Parks Week.
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Ohio State Parks Week was established to encourage people to travel outside and enjoy one of Ohio’s 75 state parks, a spokesperson for the governor’s office said.
“Ohio is blessed with diverse natural resources, from scenic rivers to wooded trails, and that diversity is reflected through our great state parks,” DeWine said. “I am proud to proclaim Ohio State Parks Week and to call attention to our accessible and family-friendly locations around the state.”
“Every Ohioan is just a short drive away from at least one of Ohio’s 75 state parks where they can enjoy a variety of experiences,” the spokesperson said. “Ohio State Parks boast thousands of miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking terrain, beaches for boating and family fun, horseback riding, disc golf, and much more.”
“You can find action and adventure as well as peace and tranquility at Ohio State Parks,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “Adding to the charm is our staff of knowledgeable experts who keep the parks beautiful and offer opportunities to learn more about nature.”
Ohio’s rich history of parks dates back to 1949 when Buckeye Lake was officially named Ohio’s first state park, the spokesperson said. The park was deemed the “Atlantic City of the Middle West” with hotels and restaurants lined along the lake’s shores.
Now, the number of state parks has been expanded and enhanced with the creation of the Ohio State Parks Foundation in 2021.
Ohio State Parks Week was created in partnership with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and the Ohio State Parks Foundation.
You can visit ohiostateparksfoundation.org to vote for your favorite state park.
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