Van Buren State Park

Van Buren State Park covers a total area of 296 acres of land in the village called Van Buren, Hancock County, Ohio. To get to the park, travel along I-96 and take Exit 13 which is about half a mile to Old Blue Star Highway. Then travel four miles north and turn left onto County Road 380 and left again onto Ruggles Road. The park, which is named after the 8th U.S. President, Martin Van Buren, was established and opened to the public in 1950. 

The land where the park sits transferred ownership from a private wildlife preserve to the state of Ohio after a dam that was built over the Rocky Ford Creek in 1939. In addition to the lake that resulted from the dam, Van Buren State Park also features a sandy beach (about one mile long) and high dune formations that are right along Lake Michigan. The land surrounding the park is comprised of thousands of acres of farmland with predominantly wheat, corn, and soybean crops. Within the park, you can find a small but cherished remnant of forested land that creates a great ambiance for a peaceful retreat to nature at its finest.

Some of the activities that make this park popular include interpretive programs, camping, hunting, and swimming. Amenities available at the park to facilitate these activities include organization campground, over 200 modern campsites, playground area, picnic area, and shelter. You can bring your dog to the park at no extra cost so do not hesitate to bring your pooch to enjoy time with you. 

As is the case with all Ohio state parks, there are some basic rules that you need to follow with regards to your dog. Some of the main rules include the following. If you want to camp at the park, you are only allowed to have two dogs/pets per campsite. Whether you decide to camp at the park or not, you must always ensure that your dog is on a leash no longer than six feet long. Additionally, you must keep your dog away from park buildings and areas that are not designated as pet-friendly areas.