ODNR will seek community input for future use of state park land
WEST PORTSMOUTH, OH – The public golf course at Shawnee State Park will open for a final season starting this weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft.
“Thanks to our collaboration with local stakeholders, we will keep the Shawnee State Park Golf Course open for the 2019 season,” said Glen Cobb, chief of the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft. “This option will allow golfers a chance to enjoy the course while we work to develop a comprehensive plan for the property that will allow it to be enjoyed by more Ohioans than ever before, for generations to come.”
Starting tomorrow (April 6), the course will open for self-registration play from dawn to dusk Tuesday through Sunday, and noon to dusk on Mondays. The pro-shop will open with limited services available in May, and the updated course hours will be posted at the shop and online at parks.ohiodnr.gov/golf.
Shawnee’s golf course is situated near the banks of the Ohio River and is easy to walk. The fifth hole is especially scenic as the course opens up to a spectacular view of the Ohio River winding below the course. Jack Kidwell designed the par 72 layout with a variety of water hazards over 6,407 yards.
According to Cobb, future land use will focus on enhancing tourism and recreational experiences that will benefit the local economy and well-being of the surrounding communities. ODNR will offer a public open house and online surveys to gain community input and new ideas for repurposing the land.
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, protection and conservation of Ohio’s state parks and waterways.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.