Columbus, Ohio – Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz announced that Ohio State Parks has been named the best park system in the United States, securing the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. The prestigious recognition was awarded by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).
The Gold Medal places Ohio ahead of fellow finalists Florida and Wyoming, recognizing the state’s outstanding park services, innovation, and dedication to environmental stewardship. “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.”
Leading the Way in Access and Experience
Ohio’s park system has long been admired for offering free admission to all 76 state parks, ensuring that access to nature and outdoor recreation is available to all. The ODNR manages over 9,300 campsites, 1,200 miles of trails, 10 lodges, and provides more than 7,100 educational programs each year. The system has also stood out for its commitment to inclusivity, having introduced adaptive kayak launches, inclusive playgrounds, and other creative amenities to meet the needs of diverse parkgoers.
“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.”
Honoring Teamwork and Cultural History
Glen Cobb, Chief of the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft, acknowledged the staff behind the scenes for their vital contributions. “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,” he said. “They are the heartbeat of Ohio’s park system, and this award reflects their passion and hard work.”
Judges for the Gold Medal Award evaluated applicants based on several criteria, including long-range planning, innovation, environmental efforts, and community engagement. They were particularly impressed by ODNR’s work in building Great Council State Park, a project developed in partnership with the Shawnee, Eastern Shawnee, and Absentee Shawnee Tribes. This park, honoring Native American heritage and Ohio’s pioneer history, has already welcomed more than 21,000 visitors and 4,000 program participants in just five months.
A Model for Other States
Ohio’s use of visitor data, investment in safety training, and expansion of public-private partnerships has set a new bar in park management across the country. SNAP FORWARD is only one of several initiatives demonstrating the state’s larger commitment to public service and accountability. “Through stronger training, smarter use of technology, and greater collaboration between state and local agencies, we can and will meet this challenge together,” said Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly in a related announcement on SNAP oversight.
For Ohio, the Gold Medal Award is not just a symbol of excellence but a promise to continue advancing conservation, recreation, and public service for generations to come.
To learn more or plan a visit, explore ohiostateparks.gov.
