Columbus, Ohio – According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), families across the state can look forward to a stress-free Thanksgiving this year by letting Ohio’s state park lodges handle the holiday feast. Published on November 10, 2025, this announcement highlights a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and families to enjoy a festive meal surrounded by the natural beauty of Ohio’s award-winning state parks, without the hassle of cooking or cleanup.
The ODNR has shared that several state park lodges, including the Mohican State Park Lodge, are preparing to host Thanksgiving celebrations with full-course meals. These lodges, nestled in some of Ohio’s most scenic locations, offer a perfect blend of outdoor relaxation and holiday tradition. Guests can savor classic Thanksgiving dishes while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, making it an ideal way to celebrate the season with loved ones. The initiative is designed to give families more time to connect with each other and with nature, rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Among the participating lodges are Mohican, Burr Oak, Deer Creek, Hueston Woods, Maumee Bay, Punderson Manor, Salt Fork, and Shawnee. Each location promises a unique dining experience tailored to the holiday, with menus featuring traditional favorites like roasted turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Many of these lodges are located within or near state parks that offer additional recreational opportunities, such as hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife observation areas, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the environment after their meal.
The ODNR emphasizes that this Thanksgiving program is part of their broader mission to encourage Ohioans to engage with the state’s natural resources. By hosting these events, the department aims to make the outdoors accessible to everyone, even during holiday seasons when time constraints might otherwise keep families indoors. The lodges provide not only a meal but also a gateway to explore the state’s diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and dense forests to serene lakeshores.
For those considering a visit, reservations are strongly recommended due to the popularity of these events. The ODNR notes that the lodges often fill up quickly as families seek to combine holiday celebrations with a getaway in nature. Some locations may also offer overnight packages, allowing guests to extend their stay and enjoy additional activities like guided nature walks or seasonal programs offered by park staff. This opportunity aligns with ODNR’s ongoing efforts to promote outdoor engagement year-round, ensuring that Ohio’s state parks remain a cherished destination for recreation and relaxation.
To add depth to the experience, it’s worth noting that Ohio’s state park system manages over 76 parks, encompassing more than 174,000 acres of land and water. This vast network provides critical habitat for a variety of wildlife species and serves as a cornerstone for outdoor recreation in the state, contributing significantly to local economies through tourism. For instance, Mohican State Park, one of the highlighted lodges for Thanksgiving, is known for its scenic Clear Fork Gorge and is a popular spot for canoeing and hiking, offering a specific example of the rich outdoor experiences available to visitors.
Additionally, the ODNR reports that Ohio’s state parks attract millions of visitors annually, with a 2022 economic impact study showing that wildlife-based recreation alone contributed nearly $12.5 billion to the state’s economy. This statistic underscores the importance of initiatives like the Thanksgiving feasts, which not only provide a memorable holiday experience but also support the state’s commitment to preserving and promoting its natural resources for future generations.
Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from out of state, the ODNR’s Thanksgiving program at state park lodges offers a chance to create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. It’s a reminder of the value of stepping outside, breathing in the crisp fall air, and appreciating the natural wonders that Ohio has to offer. Families can trade kitchen duties for quality time, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the season, making this Thanksgiving one to remember.
For more information, visit Ohio Department of Natural Resources.