COLUMBUS, Ohio — In an ongoing effort to honor those who have served in the armed forces, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) announced a new, year-round 25% discount for veterans and active-duty military members on overnight camping and rentals across Ohio State Parks.
The initiative stems from Senate Bill 233, signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine in September. The discount aims to expand access to the state’s outdoor public lands while providing financial relief for service members and their families.
“Ohio is proud to honor the men and women who have served our country, as well as those who are currently serving,” said Governor DeWine. “Offering year-round discounts at our state parks is one small way we can show our appreciation for their service and sacrifice. We want our veterans and active-duty military members and their families to enjoy Ohio’s great outdoors.”
Discount Details and Eligibility
The 25% reduction applies to most overnight services operated by Ohio State Parks, including campsites, cabins, and lodge rooms (excluding food and retail merchandise).
Key guidelines for utilizing the discount include:
- Identification: Eligible individuals must present valid military identification or approved proof of service upon check-in.
- Occupancy Requirement: The veteran or active-duty service member must be present and listed as an occupant of the reserved site or facility.
- Booking Rules: The discount applies exclusively to new reservations and cannot be combined with other promotional offers.
The new policy complements existing state park benefits, such as ODNR’s ongoing program offering free camping to permanently disabled Ohio veterans.
“Veterans and service members have dedicated themselves to protecting our freedoms and serving something greater than themselves,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “At ODNR, we are honored to show our appreciation by welcoming them to Ohio’s public lands and providing opportunities to spend time with family, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories.”
How to Reserve
Service members and veterans can book facilities using specific promotional options across state booking portals:
- State-Operated Facilities & Campsites: Visit reserveohio.com or call 1-866-644-6727.
- Great Ohio Lodges: Visit greatohiolodges.com and select the “Hero Rate” option, or call 1-800-ATAPARK (282-7275).
- The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake: Visit thelodgeatgeneva.com and select “A Salute to Service” or call 1-866-806-8066.
For additional information on state park amenities and military benefits, visit ohiodnr.gov.
