We have been working hard to renew and revitalize Ohio’s great state parks and nature preserves to keep bringing value to our guests, and to all Ohioans.

Visitors will see exciting developments at Burr Oak this summer. This underutilized natural asset is being transformed into an adventure park with immense potential. New offerings on the drawing board include archery, paintball, ATV trails, and more.

Work is underway on the new dining lodge at Lake Hope that will replace the historic structure that was destroyed by fire in 2006. Elements of the original stone and timber design are being blended with environmentally friendly new features that make an appealing package of good looks and modern efficiency.

At Hocking Hills, State Route 664 is being re-routed so that visitors no longer have to dart across the highway to reach Old Man’s Cave. This park is getting the grand new entrance it deserves, and visitors are getting a fresh new perspective from the visitor plaza.

A unique natural area, Daughmer Prairie Savannah, has been protected as a nature preserve, thanks to conservation minded partners in northwest Ohio. This ecologically significant remnant of Ohio’s historic prairie landscape has been saved from the threat of development, and is now held in trust for the citizens of Ohio.

At many of our state parks and nature preserves, staff and volunteers have been working hard behind the scenes to take good care of our facilities and offer new activities for visitors. At Quail Hollow, the park’s Volunteer Association, Herbal Society and Camera Club joined forces to raise the funds needed to replace the boiler at the Stewart Manor, protecting the historic mansion and making it comfortable for visitors. At Dillon, the park is teaming up with the Midwest Scholastic Rowing Association to offer a promising new venue for regional rowing events. At Deer Creek, a new mountain biking trail is being developed with the help of our trail partners to provide a new way for visitors to enjoy the park this summer.

I invite you to come out and experience all our state parks and preserves have to offer. Take a refreshing hike and take in the scenery, have fun at a special event, relax with an overnight stay, and reconnect with family and friends in the great outdoors.

Jon Dobney
Assistant Chief, Ohio State Parks