Overview

• The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association, presented the 2025 National Gold Medal Award to Ohio on Wednesday.
• Ohio topped fellow finalists Florida and Wyoming after evaluation by a five-judge panel.
• Judges assessed long-range planning, community engagement, environmental stewardship and innovation, highlighting the newly opened Great Council State Park near Xenia.
• The system spans 76 parks offering more than 9,300 campsites, 1,200 miles of trails, 10 lodges and over 7,100 programs, with accessibility upgrades such as adaptive kayak launches and inclusive playgrounds.
• Gov. Mike DeWine praised the recognition and emphasized Ohio’s policy of free daytime entry as well as continued investment in visitor infrastructure.