Ohio’s State Parks Earn Gold: Why the 2025 National Award Matters for Your Next Hocking Hills Getaway

When you escape to Hocking Hills, you’re not just stepping into one of Hocking Hills’ most tranquil retreats—you’re immersing yourself in a park system that is now recognized as the best in the United States. On Sept. 17 2025, Ohio’s 76 state parks were honored with the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, beating fellow finalists Florida and Wyoming.

This accolade, awarded by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association, recognizes outstanding park systems for long‑range planning, community engagement, environmental stewardship and innovation. For travelers and locals alike, it means that every hike, waterfall view and overnight stay is backed by world‑class management and a commitment to conservation.

Why Ohio’s Parks Took the Gold

Governor Mike DeWine and ODNR Director Mary Mertz highlighted several reasons Ohio topped the nation. Here are key factors that influenced the judges:

• Free access and extensive infrastructure. Visitors can enter all 76 state parks at no cost, enjoying over 9,300 campsites, 1,200 miles of trails, 10 lodges and more than 7,100 educational programs annually.
• Inclusive recreation. ODNR invests in adaptive kayak launches, inclusive playgrounds and other accessible programs to ensure everyone can connect with nature.
• Cultural partnership. The award spotlighted ODNR’s collaboration with the Shawnee, Eastern Shawnee and Absentee Shawnee Tribes to build Great Council State Park, which honors Native American heritage and Ohio’s pioneer history.
• Holistic evaluation. Judges examined long‑term planning, community engagement, and innovative programming, reflecting Ohio’s commitment to sustainability and education.

These efforts underscore why Governor DeWine called Ohio’s parks a place where you can “explore, learn and connect with nature,” praising them as a resource “for everyone.”

Hocking Hills: The Heart of Ohio’s Natural Wonder

Hocking Hills embodies the state’s newfound national recognition. From dramatic cliffs to serene waterfalls, this area attracts millions of visitors each year. Notestone Reserve, our 14‑acre property nestled among the forested hills, offers a front‑row seat to this natural splendor.

At Notestone Reserve, we believe every traveler deserves a cozy and memorable stay for your Hocking Hills rental. Our thoughtfully designed cabins, tiny homes and mirror cabins balance comfort, style and convenience—perfect whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation or a getaway with friends. The Hocking Hills Lodging Owners Association describes our accommodations as “modern, tranquil vacation homes” that offer the ideal setting for celebrations or simply a serene retreat.

Amenities That Make Your Stay Special

Guests at Notestone Reserve enjoy amenities that mirror the excellence celebrated by the Gold Medal Award:

• Multiple lodging styles. We offer one‑, two‑ and three‑bedroom units, each featuring modern architecture and tasteful décor.
• Relaxation and recreation. Every unit includes a Jacuzzi or hot tub, and many feature gas or electric fireplaces, game rooms and access to a tranquil pond.
• Family- and pet‑friendly. Our cabins are designed for couples as well as families, with kid‑friendly layouts and select pet‑friendly options.
• Connectivity and convenience. Free Wi‑Fi keeps you connected, while thoughtful extras such as modern kitchens and outdoor seating help you unwind.

These amenities—coupled with our personal touches—ensure that you feel at home while surrounded by Ohio’s finest natural scenery.

Tourism’s Impact on Hocking County

The Gold Medal recognition arrives as Hocking Hills experiences a boom in tourism. According to a 2024 TourismOhio report, direct visitor spending of $162.9 million in 2023 generated a total economic impact of $270.4 million and supported 1,621 jobs in Hocking County. This underscores how investments in parks and hospitality—like Notestone Reserve—deliver tangible benefits to local communities.

Plan Your Visit

Ohio’s new national status means more travelers will be discovering the Buckeye State. Here’s how to make the most of your trip:

1. Book early. With Ohio’s state parks in the spotlight, accommodations at popular destinations like Hocking Hills fill quickly. Notestone Reserve offers easy online booking and year‑round availability.
2. Explore beyond the trails. Attend one of the parks’ thousands of educational programs or visit Great Council State Park to learn about the Shawnee heritage.
3. Support local businesses. Tourism fuels the region’s economy. Enjoy local restaurants, artisans and nearby attractions to help keep Hocking Hills thriving.

Celebrating Excellence Together

As a part of Hocking Hills’ hospitality community, Notestone Reserve applauds the dedication of ODNR’s park managers, naturalists, officers and volunteers. Their hard work ensures that every sunrise over Cedar Falls and every walk through our forests reflects a legacy of stewardship. We invite you to experience this award‑winning landscape firsthand—then unwind in our modern, peaceful cabins.

Ready for your next adventure? Notestone Reserve is waiting.

Sources

1. WTAP News, “Best in the nation: Ohio State Parks wins national award” — provides details about the 2025 National Gold Medal Award, quotes from Governor DeWine, statistics on park amenities and accessibility, and the role of the Great Council State Parkwtap.com.
2. Hocking Hills Lodging Owners Association — describes Notestone Reserve as offering “modern, tranquil vacation homes,” perfect for celebrations or quiet retreatshockinghillslodgingownersassociation.com.
3. Explore Hocking Hills – Notestone Reserve — details our commitment to providing cozy, memorable stays, as well as amenities like Jacuzzis/hot tubs, gas or electric fireplaces, game rooms, ponds, pet‑friendly options and free Wi‑Fiexplorehockinghills.comexplorehockinghills.com.
4. TourismOhio Economic Impact Report (2024) — notes that direct visitor spending of $162.9 million in 2023 generated a total economic impact of $270.4 million and supported 1,621 jobs in Hocking Countyexplorehockinghills.com.