From the office of Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz announced today that Ohio State Parks has been named the best park system in the nation for providing excellent recreation programs and services.

Ohio was awarded the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management this morning from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association. Ohio earned the Gold Medal Award over fellow finalists Florida and Wyoming.

“Our state parks protect Ohio’s natural resources while providing incredible opportunities for people to explore, learn, and connect with nature,” said Governor DeWine. “From protecting natural resources to creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Ohio state parks are truly for everyone. We are thrilled to be recognized as the best in the nation.”

The award represents ODNR’s commitment to innovation, accessibility, and conservation. With free entry to all 76 state parks, Ohio offers more than 9,300 campsites, 1,200 miles of trails, 10 lodges, and over 7,100 educational programs annually. ODNR has also led the way in accessibility with adaptive kayak launches, inclusive playgrounds, and other creative programs.

“Ohioans and visitors from across the country make our state parks their destination, and we are grateful for their support,” said Director Mertz. “Earning the Gold Medal is an extraordinary honor that highlights the pride, beauty, and enjoyment Ohio state parks bring to millions of people each year.”

“This recognition belongs to the park managers, naturalists, officers, maintenance crews, and every staff member and volunteer who make our parks safe, welcoming, and memorable,” said Glen Cobb, chief of the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft. “They are the heartbeat of Ohio’s park system, and this award reflects their passion and hard work.”

State park systems were evaluated by a panel of experienced park and recreation professionals on long-range planning, community engagement, environmental stewardship, and the ability to innovate and adapt.

The judges also highlighted ODNR’s success in building Great Council State Park in partnership with the Shawnee, Eastern Shawnee, and Absentee Shawnee Tribes. The park, which honors Native American history and culture, as well as Ohio’s pioneer past, welcomed more than 21,000 visitors and nearly 4,000 program attendees in its first five months.

Through strategic use of visitor data, expanded safety training, and strong public-private partnerships, ODNR continues to set a national standard for park management while advancing its mission of conservation, education, and recreation.

For more information about Ohio’s state parks, visit ohiostateparks.gov.