March has been designated as "Go Camping, Ohio!" month, and camping enthusiasts are encouraged to take advantage of spring's first warm days by getting their gear out of winter hibernation and heading for Ohio's great outdoors.
As an incentive, all Ohio State Parks campgrounds and participating members of the Ohio Campground Owners' Association (OCOA) are offering an additional 25 percent off already discounted camping fees for the month.
"March traditionally marks the kickoff of Ohio's camping season," said Dan West, chief of Ohio State Parks. "Now's the time to have an early season camping experience and save money at the same time."
Last year, almost 3 million people camped in the 57 Ohio State Parks campgrounds, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Another large number enjoyed Ohio's beautiful scenery and wildlife while camping in the approximately 500 private campground facilities throughout the state. Camping is an important part of Ohio's $27 billion tourism industry and the number one outdoor vacation activity in America. More than 30 million Americans camp each year in the nation's 16,000 public and private campgrounds.
"We thank Governor Taft for his support of Ohio's camping industry," said Joe Coreno, president of the OCOA. "We are proud to be a part of Ohio's great camping tradition."
Ohio State Parks campgrounds and OCOA members offer a wide array of camping opportunities from primitive tent campsites to full-service hook-ups for recreational vehicles and trailers. Horsemen's camping is offered in 21 state parks and 13 state forests, as well as in some OCOA campgrounds. Family campgrounds in the state parks as well as most OCOA members provide, at a minimum, drinking water, restroom facilities, pads for parking a car or trailer, picnic tables and fire rings.
Campers who do not own equipment can make reservations now to enjoy the experience this season through one of Ohio State Parks Camping Options programs. Rent-A-Camp and Camper Cabins, Rent-A-RV, Rent-A-Tepee, Rent-A-Yurt, and Cedar Cabins allow novice or experienced campers to enjoy the fun of camping without the expense or hassle of providing equipment. Campers interested in renting equipment are encouraged to contact a specific park to see what Camping Options programs are available.
Campers can plan their summer camping vacations now by visiting the ODNR web site at www.dnr.state.oh.us or the OCOA web site at www.ohiocamper.com .