Governor Mike DeWine Proclaims June 1-7, 2026 as Ohio State Parks Week
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COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is pleased to announce that Governor Mike DeWine has officially proclaimed June 1-7, 2026, as Ohio State Parks Week, celebrating the natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and award‑winning excellence of Ohio’s 76 state parks.
ODNR’s Division of Parks and Watercraft manages Ohio’s state parks to ensure they remain accessible to all. With no entrance fees, visitors can freely enjoy hiking, camping, paddling, wildlife viewing, environmental education, and countless ways to experience nature across the state.
“Ohio State Parks Week gives us an opportunity to celebrate everything our 76 state parks represent,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “These parks belong to all of us, and they offer every Ohioan a chance to connect with nature, spend meaningful time outdoors, and appreciate the landscapes that make our state special. We are proud of the national recognition Ohio’s state park system has earned, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of the activities and experiences available.”
Ohio’s state park system was recently honored with the National Gold Medal Award, recognizing it as the top state park system in the nation. Ohio State Parks Week coincides with National Camping Month and National Great Outdoors Month, encouraging families, individuals, and communities to discover the health, wellness, and educational benefits that come from spending time outdoors. Ohio’s state parks welcome millions of guests annually and include more than 9,000 campsites ranging from full‑service RV hookups to primitive sites, group camping, and equine‑friendly options.
(left) The glass walkway at Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park in Garrettsville. (right) Visitors enjoy Marblehead Lighthouse State Park.
ODNR Director Mary Mertz applauded the Governor’s proclamation, stating: “Ohio State Parks offer activities for everyone to enjoy, and this week is an opportunity to visit a state park near you and make lifelong memories with friends or family. Whether you are camping, hiking, paddling, or simply enjoying the quiet of nature, Ohio State Parks Week is an invitation to get outside and explore all our state has to offer.”
Ohio’s state parks are a source of pride in local communities and have created a sense of belonging for people who volunteer, carry out special projects, and show their support for any of Ohio’s 76 state parks through the Ohio State Parks Foundation. This shared commitment to outdoor recreation encourages people to come together throughout Ohio State Parks Week.
(left) The historic covered bridge at Mohican State Park near Loudonville. (right) The interpretive center (modeled after a historic Shawnee longhouse) at Great Council State Park in Xenia.
From shoreline sunsets to forest trails, offerings at Ohio’s state parks encourage residents and visitors alike to make time for outdoor exploration during Ohio State Parks Week and to support the natural resources that make our state exceptional. For a complete list of Ohio State Parks events, visit ohiodnr.gov/events.
