An old favorite at the Ohio State Fair will have a bit of a new look next week as the annual summer event hits the Fairgrounds in Columbus. Bring your family and friends and explore the Natural Resources Park during the Fair, which runs from Wednesday, July 26 to Sunday August 6.
When you visit the Natural Resources Park, you’ll get a peek at all the opportunities that await you in Ohio’s outdoors. Learn about Ohio’s natural resources and conservation practices.
A new shooting pavilion, featuring archery and an air gun range, will open in 2017 along with a new fish house, where you can watch cooking demonstrations and try samples. Another addition is the Recycling House from Ohio EPA. This building spotlights ways to recycle in the Buckeye State.
Learn about Ohio’s animals, trees, wildflowers, water, rocks and minerals in the education pavilion featuring hands-on activities. Speak to a naturalist or officer and ask your questions on wildlife, boating, and the best places to camp, fish, hike, bike, or paddle.
A 60-foot-tall fire tower, located behind Smokey Bear, originally was built in 1934 in Pike Ohio by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) as part of an early warning system in spotting signs of forest fires. Try your hand at kayaking or ride the PWC simulator to learn what skill it takes to speed across the water.
Visit an Ohio prairie — then walk through a house full of butterflies. Youth can go fishing with the help of a wildlife officer and meet Smokey Bear to learn about wildfire safety.
Stroll through the shaded Governor’s Grove admiring the variety and value of Ohio trees. Take a geology walk through time to learn how Ohio’s landscape shaped its importance in the development of civilization and trade. Enjoy a variety of free entertainment all day at the amphitheater including the popular lumberjack show.
A world of outdoor exploration awaits you in the Natural Resources Park. Exhibits are open 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM; most activities take place at or after 11:00 AM each day. A preview video can be seen below.
