OHIO, USA — The state of Ohio is home to dozens of parks and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is encouraging residents and travelers to visit the state's beautiful nature parks.
On Earth Day, DeWine issued a new proclamation recognizing April 22 through April 29 at State Parks Week.
“From Maumee Bay to Forked Run, our state parks add so much to our quality of life and make Ohio a great place to live,” said Governor DeWine. “I encourage you to celebrate our state parks by taking time to get outside and enjoy a walk along a Storybook Trail with your family, a day on the water with friends, or a hike to some of Ohio’s most scenic spots.”
During the designated week, DeWine is encouraging people to visit a state park near them. The Governor says its an opportunity to experience and enjoy the numerous programs and activities offered by the state's 75 denoted parks.
Click here to see a full list of the offering provided in partnership with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and the Ohio State Parks Foundation.
“Our state parks offer a little bit of everything, no matter what your family is looking for,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “From a hike along the trails at the southern tip of the Buckeye State to a sunset paddle along the shores of Lake Erie, our parks offer tranquility, adventure, and everything in between.”
Governor DeWine and ODNR announced the creation of the Ohio State Parks Foundation last year to protect and enhance Ohio’s parks and advocate for their future.
By the fall of 2023, Ohio is expected to open it's 76th state park. The park located near Xenia will feature an interpretation center developed in partnership with the three federally recognized Shawnee tribes and the Ohio History Connection. The plans for the park were announced in 2021 and construction is set to begin this summer.
The state of Ohio has a rich history of parks, starting in 1949 when Buckeye Lake was officially named Ohio’s first state park. The area used to be touted as "Ohio's Inland Seashore" and the "Atlantic City of the Middle West." During the early 20th century, the lake shores were lined with hotels and restaurants meant for families who came to experience amusement park rides, a skating rink, and arcade games.
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*Editor's Note: The video in the player above is from a previous report.
