A Sweet Taste of Spring: Ohio State Parks Maple Syrup Festivals Are Back
Article presented by Pike County Career & Technology Center…
COLUMBUS, Ohio — As winter begins to fade, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft will soon be celebrating one of the season’s most anticipated traditions, maple syrup season. This March, visitors are invited to four Ohio State Parks to experience the sights, smells, and flavors of maple sugaring through hands-on demonstrations, outdoor adventures, and plenty of sweet treats.
“Maple syrup season is a special time in Ohio,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “These festivals offer a fun way for families to get outside, learn how syrup is made, and connect with the natural and cultural traditions that have been part of our state for generations.”
Hueston Woods State Park – 59th Annual Maple Syrup Festival
March 7, 8, 14, and 15, noon to 4 p.m.
Take a scenic hayride from the beach parking lot to a guided hike through the 200-acre “Big Woods,” a state nature preserve. Learn the science and tradition of syrup making, then treat yourself to local maple syrup and refreshments available for purchase. A breakfast buffet featuring pancakes will also be available at the lodge from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. – $10 for adults and $8 for children 10 and under.
Malabar Farm State Park – 49th Annual Maple Syrup Festival
March 7, 8, 14, and 15, noon to 4 p.m.
Experience a sugar camp with live historic and modern syrup-making demonstrations, horse-drawn wagon rides, food, and tasty maple products to sample and purchase. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour of the historic “Big House.”
Hocking Hills State Park – Maple Sugaring in the Hills
March 14 and 15,11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Visit the naturalist cabin behind the Old Man’s Cave visitor center to see how sap transforms into maple syrup. Through live demonstrations, learn about the deep-rooted history of maple sugaring in Ohio. A local producer will be on hand with syrup available for purchase.
Indian Lake State Park – Maple Syrup Festival
March 21, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and March 22, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Watch a live demonstration showcasing the transformation of sap into maple syrup. A pancake and sausage breakfast featuring pure maple syrup served up by the Indian Lake Development Corporation will also be available both days – $8 for adults and $4 for children.
All festivals are free and open to the public but be sure to bring cash to support local vendors and take home some of Ohio’s finest maple syrup.
