COLUMBUS, OH – Campers who frequent Ohio State Park campgrounds can now save money year round by joining the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ new Cardinal Camper Club. For a $20 membership fee, campers receive a 10 percent discount on campsite fees between April and October and a 20 percent discount between November and March.

"The Cardinal Camper Club is a great way for camping families to enjoy Ohio’s state park system and save money at the same time," said Dan West, chief of Ohio State Parks. "It means more camping for fewer dollars!"

According to West, about 2.5 million campers enjoyed Ohio State Parks campgrounds in 1999. The state’s 9,000 public campsites range from primitive, walk-in sites with no electricity to sites with full RV hookups for both electricity and water. All camps feature drinking water, restroom facilities, parking for a trailer or car, picnic tables and fire rings. Many campgrounds offer much more, including showers, laundry facilities, camp stores or commissaries, playgrounds, as well as special camper beaches, boat launch ramps and boat docks.

Family campgrounds are open year round. Some parks host theme campouts with family activities, while others offer nature programs, guided hikes and movies during summer months. Check the Ohio State Parks Web site at www.ohiostateparks.org for a full list of camping fees and details of other camping activities.

Cardinal Camper Club membership cards are good for one full year from the month of purchase. Cards are non-transferable and cannot be used with other discounts, promotions or coupons. Discounts are good for one campsite per card, per visit.

Cardinal Camper Club application forms are available at all 73 Ohio State Parks or by mail from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks & Recreation, 1952 Belcher Drive, C-3, Columbus, Ohio 43224.

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