JESSE OWENS STATE PARK
Jesse Owens offers four no-fee campgrounds. Campers should follow the self-registration process. Campsites may be occupied on a first-come, first-served basis with a two-week maximum stay.
Jesse Owens State Park is a relatively new state park located in the southwestern part of Ohio. It was officially opened to the public on July 21, 2016.
The park is named after Jesse Owens, a legendary American track and field athlete who gained international fame during the 1936 Summer Olympics held in Berlin, Germany. Owens won four gold medals in various track and field events, breaking multiple world records in the process. He became a symbol of triumph over adversity, disproving Adolf Hitler's theory of Aryan superiority.
The idea to name a state park after Jesse Owens originated from the Ohio State Parks and Natural Resources Bond Issue of 1993. This bond issue led to the acquisition and development of various state parks, including a new one to be named after Owens.
Jesse Owens State Park is situated in Fairfield and Pickaway counties, covering approximately 5,735 acres. The park is still in the process of being fully developed and currently offers limited public access. The primary feature of the park is the Jesse Owens State Park and Wildlife Area, which covers about 1,000 acres and serves as a nature preserve.
The park also includes the Jesse Owens Story and Museum, which provides visitors with information about Owens' life and achievements. Additionally, the park offers opportunities for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, hunting, and birding.
The development of Jesse Owens State Park is an ongoing project, with plans for expansion and further improvements in the future. The park aims to honor Jesse Owens and provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about his remarkable legacy while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Ohio does not have an annual pass and does not charge entrance fees to state parks.
Hook Lake
Also known as Campground A, Hook Lake site are located at the east end of the park at 9160 N. State Route 83 in McConnelville. The campground offers youth-only 15 and under fishing ponds. The sites are primitive no water, no electric, no pad and each has a picnic table and fire ring. The campground features multiple latrines, shelter houses and archery range. Open seasonally, generally April 1 to mid-December.
Maple Grove
Known as Campground G, Maple Grove sites are located 7580 State Route 284 in McConnelsville. The sites are primitive no water, no electric, no pad and each has a picnic table and fire ring. There is a latrine for the campground.
Sand Hollow
Known as Campground C, Sand Hollow sites are at the north end of the park at 9290 State Route 284 in McConnelsville. It borders Horse Run Lake which has boat ramp access. The sites are primitive no water, no electric, no pad and each has a picnic table and fire ring. Several sites border the lake. This campground has a shelterhouse and several latrines. This camping area is open seasonally, generally April 1 to mid-December.
Sawmill
Known as Campground D, Sawmill camping area is located at the east end of the park at 10390 N. State Route 83 in McConnelsville. The sites are primitive no water, no electric, no pad and each has a picnic table . The campground offers a latrine and a covered bridge access to one of the sites. These sites are open seasonally from April 1 to mid-December.
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