Family-friendly parks programming free for all visitors
COLUMBUS, Ohio – While Ohio prepares to have a front row seat for the total solar eclipse on April 8, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is offering family-friendly, free programming at state parks to provide more insight into many different facets of the eclipse.
“ODNR is excited to offer beautiful, natural viewing locations for the eclipse, and we are proud to offer great programming leading up to the eclipse that will further enhance the experience,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “We know this will combine education and fun as people prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
The programs include eclipse viewing lessons, a scientific exploration of the Sun and shadows, a demonstration of the orbital dance between moons and their planets, and investigating the effects the eclipse can have on the weather.
See the full list of ODNR Eclipse Countdown Events.
There are 28 ODNR locations around the state that are in or near the path of totality:
- Alum Creek State Park
- Buck Creek State Park
- Delaware State Park
- Delaware Wildlife Area Shooting Range
- Wildlife District Three Akron Office
- East Harbor State Park
- Findley State Park
- Geneva State Park
- Grand Lake State Park
- Grand Lake St. Marys State Fish Hatchery
- Headlands Beach State Park
- Hueston Woods State Park
- Indian Lake State Park*
- John Bryan State Park
- Kiser Lake State Park
- Lake Loramie State Park
- Magee Marsh Wildlife Area and Visitor Center
- Maumee Bay State Park
- Mohican State Park
- Mosquito Lake State Park
- Mt. Gilead State Park
- Portage Lakes State Park
- Punderson State Park
- Pymatuning State Park
- Spring Valley Wildlife Area Shooting Range
- Sycamore State Park
- West Branch State Park
- Wingfoot Lake State Park
For details, of eclipse events visit the ODNR Events Calendar for up-to-date information, driving directions, individual park contact information, and more events.
Programs and events are subject to change based on factors such as inclement weather.
For more information about the total solar eclipse in Ohio, please head to ohiodnr.gov/eclipse.
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 75 state parks and waterways.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.
In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
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.
*As of March 18, Indian Lake State Park remains closed as crews continue to assess the damage caused by the storm on March 14. ODNR will evaluate when it is safe to re-open the park as we continue our cleanup efforts.
