Springfield, Ohio – Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the grand opening of a new marina and nature center at Buck Creek State Park. This state-of-the-art facility blends interactive educational exhibits with upgraded conveniences, creating a new destination for families, anglers, and nature lovers alike.
“Ohio has the best state parks system in the nation, and people from all over come to enjoy what the Buckeye State has to offer,” said Governor DeWine. “I see our nature centers as the perfect place where people of all ages can learn something new about Ohio while they explore.”
The newly constructed marina and nature center replaces the park’s former marina store, which was demolished in 2024. Built on the same site, the upgraded building introduces a fresh vision for how visitors engage with Ohio’s natural resources, combining recreation with immersive education.
A Gathering Space for Learning and Leisure
“This new facility is more than a marina, it’s a gathering place for families, anglers, and nature lovers,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “It reflects our commitment to providing modern, welcoming spaces where visitors can enjoy both the recreational and educational opportunities that make Buck Creek State Park so special.”
Inside the nature center, guests will find interactive displays that bring the park’s environment to life. Visitors can simulate paddling a kayak, view life-size fish illustrations to compare their size, and even engage their senses in exhibits showcasing the smells and sights of Ohio’s forests and wetlands.
Alongside these educational experiences, the full-service marina store offers a mix of traditional supplies and expanded offerings. Guests can pick up bait, tackle, and fuel, as well as enjoy hand-dipped ice cream or browse souvenirs. Modern restrooms and outdoor seating areas provide added comfort and convenience for park-goers.
Enhancing Ohio’s Premier Outdoor Destination
The addition of the marina and nature center complements Buck Creek State Park’s existing lineup of activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping. With this new addition, the park strengthens its reputation as a top-tier destination for outdoor enthusiasts across the state.
This project also underscores the continuing recognition of Ohio’s commitment to parks and public lands. The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft was recently awarded the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, naming Ohio’s system the best in the country.
By blending recreation, education, and conservation, the new Buck Creek facility delivers on Ohio’s promise to create dynamic and inclusive outdoor spaces that welcome all generations to connect with nature.
