COLUMN | Share the gift of the Great Outdoors with family and friends

ODNR

 

 Still purchasing final gifts for friends and family this holiday season? Consider giving the gift of the great outdoors! The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has options for fun and unique stocking stuffers the entire family will love.

Ohio State Parks Gift Cards and Gift Certificates

An Ohio State Parks gift card or gift certificate makes a perfect present for anyone who enjoys the beauty of the great outdoors right here in the Buckeye State. Gift cards or gift certificates can be used at Ohio State Parks for overnight stays, allowing the recipient to enjoy a favorite state park or visit a new one! Gift cards or gift certificates may be redeemed for camping, getaway rentals, cabin rentals or in most of Ohio’s state park lodges. They may also be used for golfing at our six public courses at Ohio State Parks or for boat rentals at many state park marinas. Available in any denomination and with no expiration date, gift cards and gift certificates may be purchased online at parks.ohiodnr.gov/giftcards. Gift cards may also be purchased at any state park office or by calling 866-644-6727.

Wild Ohio Magazine

The Wild Ohio Magazine provides readers an entertaining look into Ohio's wildlife and conservation activities. The magazine is delivered six times per year, one of which is a calendar edition. The cost is $10 per year, or $5 per year for those who have purchased an online hunting license, fishing license or stamp through the Wild Ohio Customer Center at bit.ly/WildOhioStore. This subscription makes a great gift for people who love the outdoors.

Wildlife Gift Certificates

Gift certificates can be purchased through the Wild Ohio Customer Center. Recipients can use the cards to purchase their licenses and permits next year. Gift certificates can be purchased for any amount and are valid one year from the date of purchase. Wildlife gift certificates can only be purchased and redeemed online at bit.ly/WildOhioStore.  

Legacy Stamps

Buying and giving an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp allows wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to directly impact the future of Ohio's native wildlife. The stamp proceeds go to the Endangered Species and Wildlife Diversity Fund and support: habitat restoration; land purchases and conservation easements; endangered and threatened native species; educational products for students and wildlife enthusiasts; and wildlife and habitat research projects. The individual purchasing an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp for $15 will receive a collectible stamp, window cling and commemorative card, and the stamps can be purchased at bit.ly/WildOhioStore. Showing your Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp at eight state park lodges can earn a 25 percent discount on lodge rooms for weekday stays, and the stamp holder must be present to receive this coupon.  

Geology Store

Need a special holiday gift for a rock hound or fossil collector? The OhioGeologyStore.com features great books, maps and posters for young geologists, explorers and hikers. We are offering a 20 percent discount on a large selection of our most popular publications, allowing people to shop online from the convenience of home to avoid the crowds. The publications cover a wide range of topics. Readers get detailed information on Ohio’s geology and cultural history, including fossils, minerals, natural resources, scenic features and even Lake Erie shipwrecks. Choose from a number of geologic guidebooks to help plan a great family outing or beautify a home or office with a colorful, large-format map. The sale goes through Friday, Dec. 30. Go to OhioGeologyStore.com and click “Specials” to see a complete list of items available. 

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.