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.
Jesse Owens State Park in Ohio offers various swimming options for visitors to enjoy. The park features a beautiful beach where visitors can swim and relax by the water. Lifeguards are typically on duty during designated hours to ensure the safety of swimmers. Additionally, the park has a designated area for children to safely splash and play in the water. Swimming is a popular activity at Jesse Owens State Park, providing a fun and refreshing way to cool off during the summer months.
Jesse Owens State Park in Ohio offers a variety of fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers. The park is home to several bodies of water, including the AEP ReCreation Land's 350 ponds and lakes.
The most common species found in these waters are largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie and sunfish. These fish can be caught using various methods such as fly-fishing or bait casting depending on personal preference.
In addition to traditional bank fishing spots along the shorelines of many ponds and lakes within Jesse Owens State Park boundaries there are also boat ramps available at some locations allowing visitors with their own boats access deeper into larger bodies of water where bigger game may reside.
It should be noted that all individuals aged 16 years old or older must have an active Ohio Fishing License before they begin angling activities inside state parks like Jesse Owens.
Fishing tournaments occasionally take place throughout year which could provide additional excitement for those interested participating competitive events while enjoying natural beauty this area has offer its guests too!
Remember always follow local regulations regarding catch limits size restrictions ensure sustainable future generations enjoy same experiences you do today when visiting beautiful places like Jesse Owen's State Park!
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