News Release

COLUMBUS, OH -- Ohioans can receive an extra night free at an Ohio State Parks lodge or rental cabin through April 1 as part of a special 50th anniversary celebration for the Ohio State Parks system, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

Customers who ask for the "50th Year special" when making their reservations for overnight stays will receive three nights for the price of two on weekends or four nights for the price of two on weekdays, subject to availability and excluding several selected dates. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-AT-A-PARK (1-800-282-7275).

The 50th anniversary celebration will also feature special activities this summer at many state parks, including nature hikes, campouts, fishing derbies, arts and craft fairs and heritage festivals. A Customer Appreciation Weekend will be held August 20-21, featuring reduced rates for camping at all 57 Ohio State Park campgrounds.

"Generations of Ohioans have made Ohio State Parks part of their family tradition," said Dan West, chief of the ODNR Division of Parks & Recreation. "This 50th anniversary celebration is our way of thanking our loyal park visitors. We hope Ohio's outdoor enthusiasts will take advantage of this opportunity."

The Ohio State Parks system was created within the Ohio Department of Natural Resources in 1949. Ohio State Parks, recognized as the nation's finest by the National Recreation and Parks Association, includes 73 state parks -- covering more than 200,000 acres in 60 counties.

Updates and details on special activities at Ohio State Parks are available on the Internet at www.dnr.state.oh.us/ odnr/parks.