COLUMBUS, OH -- Overnight visitors to Ohio State Parks generated $48.1 million more for the states economy in 2000 than the previous year, according to a study authorized by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). About 1.3 million overnight visitors to Ohio State Parks accounted for $250.4 million in direct sales on and off park property -- up from the 1999 mark of $202.3 million.
More and more people are discovering the aesthetic and recreational value of Ohio's award winning state parks, said Dan West, Ohio State Parks chief. And those discoveries are having an important impact on the state's economy.
The vast majority of Ohio State Park visitors come for day-use recreational activities. However, those staying one or more nights in a park facility generate a significant financial impact. Lodging, food and services purchased by overnight visitors generated $20.7 million in state taxes and another $19.8 million in local taxes. In addition, overnight stays supported the equivalent of 9,500 full-time jobs across the state and generated $156.9 million in wages for workers.
The economic impact study, authorized by ODNR in conjunction with the Ohio Division of Travel & Tourism, analyzed sales on and off park property. This is the second year ODNR has participated in the economic impact study.
Direct sales are two types of purchases: 1) those made directly from park facilities such as lodges, campgrounds and marinas and 2) those made from businesses serving park visitors such as sporting goods stores, local service stations and roadside eateries. Indirect sales represent purchases from park service and support companies such as wholesale food and linen suppliers, building contractors and utilities.
We value the data gathered in these surveys and hope to use it to make Ohio State Parks an even greater influence on Ohio's economy, West said
Ohio's state parks offer 57 campgrounds and 9,048 campsites; more than 500 overnight cottages; and eight resort lodges. Reservation information is available at individual park offices or through 1-800-AT-A-PARK for all lodges and cottages except those at Deer Creek State Park. Deer Creek reservations are available at 1-877-678-3337. Campsites are available on first come, first served basis.