Ohio state parks

Legislators over the years have set aside some of Ohio's more scenic areas for public use. The parks are scattered all over the state to give access to all. To the north, the Parks around Lake Erie have some of the best beaches and camping areas. Many have boat launches. Inland, most are in forest areas and offer outstanding amenities to campers, picnickers, boaters and horseback riders.

If you are visiting Ohio, visiting any of the parks may be a great choice at reasonable cost. All parks are open to the public and basic admission to all parks is free. Facility fees vary from park to park, but all are very affordable.

Ohio has approximately 57 state parks that provide places to sleep. Some provide year-round camping, showers, swimming, boat rental, bike rental, horse camps, sport fishing and a variety of other activities. Some of those that provide a place to sleep are listed below.

Note
The mailing address and actual location of these parks may be two different locations: For more detailed information on these and other Ohio State Parks, contact the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Stay safe
During hunting season, wear brightly-colored clothing if you go into the woods.

If you are backpacking, biking or any off-road adventure, register with the Park Office. Make sure you call or visit on the way out. It only makes sense, you may get lost, or break something. Cell phones may not work in these areas.

Go next

 * Wayne National Forest - Ohio's only national forest.
 * Cuyahoga Valley National Park - Ohio's only national park.
 * Ohio Prehistoric Sites - Indian mounds and other archaeological sites in Ohio
 * Hocking Hills State Park