News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2003

OVERNIGHT VISITORS TO OHIO STATE PARKS PUMP $265,000,000
INTO LOCAL AND STATEWIDE BUSINESSES
Study examines Ohio State Parks visitation during 2001

COLUMBUS, OH -- Overnight visitors to Ohio State Park campgrounds, cottages and resort lodges contribute an average of $80.40 per day to the state's economy through spending on lodging, food and other services, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

The department participated in an economic impact study sponsored by the Ohio Division of Travel & Tourism that showed Ohio State Parks visitors generate revenues not only for the parks themselves, but also for surrounding communities and businesses statewide.

Most 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. About 3.2 million overnight visitors to Ohio State Parks accounted for $265 million in expenditures on and off park property during 2001. Actual revenues to parks accounted for less than 10 percent of that amount, with more than 90 percent going to local communities and businesses that support the recreation and travel industries.

"It's clear that our state parks have a profound effect on Ohio's economy," said Dan West, chief of Ohio State Parks. "They are not only an important source of recreation for the majority of Ohioans, they are also a source of important revenues."

According to the study, lodging, food, transportation, goods and services purchased by overnight visitors generated $21.9 million in state taxes and another $20.8 million in local taxes during 2001. In addition, overnight stays supported the equivalent of 9,900 full-time jobs across the state.

A 2002 Ohio Poll conducted by the University of Cincinnati showed 83 percent of adult Ohioans have visited an Ohio State Park for at least a day to swim, boat, picnic, hike or attend a special event.

Ohio's 74 state parks offer 57 family campgrounds and more than 9,000 campsites; more than 500 overnight cottages; and eight full-service 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.