Press Release,
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is inviting outdoor enthusiasts to discover the beauty of the Buckeye State through the new Ohio State Parks Passport Challenge on Ohio Trails+, powered by the free OuterSpatial app.
This interactive program allows visitors to check in at each of Ohio’s 76 state parks, plus the Natural Resources Park at the Ohio State Fairgrounds, unlocking unique digital badges with every visit. Each check-in is saved to the user’s profile, making it easy to track travel progress and share memories. Participants can upload photos, view curated trail guides, and climb a live leaderboard that tracks their park visits across the state.
“Ohio’s 76 state parks are the best in the nation,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Now Ohioans have a new way to visit and explore our many beautiful state parks and track their adventures.”
This initiative follows a major honor for Ohio’s state parks, which recently earned the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation—a top recognition for recreation programs and public service.
“Ohio’s state parks are some of the most beautiful and accessible in the country,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “This new digital passport makes exploring them even more fun, while encouraging families, friends, and outdoor lovers to see everything our parks have to offer.”
The program is powered by a partnership with OuterSpatial, the official trails app of ODNR. OuterSpatial’s platform offers trail maps, points of interest, curated outings, and navigation tools that enhance the park-going experience. Users can join the “Ohio Community” within the app to access Ohio Trails+, a comprehensive guide to parks and trails statewide.
“We’re thrilled to expand our partnership with Ohio state parks through this exciting new digital passport program,” said Ryan Branciforte, CEO of OuterSpatial. “Visitors can now explore hidden gems and collect exclusive park-specific badges that can’t be earned anywhere else.”
The OuterSpatial app is free to download on both iOS and Android devices. Once installed, users can join the Ohio State Parks Passport Challenge and begin checking in right away. To learn more, visit: ohiodnr.gov/ohiotrails
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 76 state parks and waterways.
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.
