Catch a glimpse of majestic birds of prey, kayak through cool waters, meet Smokey Bear, and more this year at the Natural Resources Park at the Ohio State Fair.

“We always look forward to coming together as a department during the Ohio State Fair because it allows us to proudly exhibit the beauty of Ohio’s natural resources in a fun and exciting way,” said Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz. “It’s a great time to share our passion for education and conservation while celebrating our anniversary.”

Visitors can find their way to some cooling shade at the park by following Smokey Bear’s paw prints throughout the fairgrounds. Fairgoers can enjoy a range of attractions, from thrilling archery and air gun shooting ranges to a peaceful tallgrass prairie, while learning about the various divisions that make up ODNR.

Celebrate ODNR’s 75th anniversary at the ODNR Birthday Bash on July 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The celebration will be held at Governor’s Grove, next to the kayak pond and the pavilion, at Natural Resources Park.

An updated stream table exhibit allows visitors to get a hands-on experience with macroinvertebrates such as crayfish and snails while learning the important role they play in monitoring stream health. The new “Minerals Are ReMARKABLE” coloring display invites fair guests to learn about minerals in Ohio, how they are mined, and the vital roles they play in our everyday lives.

Animal enthusiasts can explore the wildlife boardwalk, aviary, and butterfly house. Also, visitors won’t miss the captivating 15-foot animatronic Smokey Bear, a must-see attraction as he celebrates his 80th birthday this year. There will be a birthday party for Smokey Bear at the exhibit on Aug. 2 at 1 p.m. for all to enjoy.

Visitors can take home a free souvenir with the new “Life in Ancient Ohio” trading card series. Cards can be earned by participating in engaging activities such as the “Geological Walk Through Time” exhibit. It is both immersive and exciting in its presentation, informing visitors about the rich narrative of Ohio’s ancient rocks. Visit Daphne the Dunk, a life-size sculpture of Ohio’s state fossil fish, the dunkleosteus.

Fairgoers eager for some hands-on fun should seek out the bluegill fishing pond for kids ages 14 and younger. Visitors can also float at the kayak pond, which is an excellent chance to get in the water and learn about boating safety.

The Natural Resources Park Amphitheater will have regular entertainment scheduled, such as the Great Lakes Timber Show which is all about showing off lumberjack skills, and contests like the turkey call competition fairgoers can participate in.

The experiences at the Natural Resources Park directly represent the enjoyment that families and friends can have within the state parks year-round. Guests are encouraged to further seek out these fun experiences across Ohio’s vast natural offerings.

The Ohio State Fair runs from July 24 to Aug. 4.

For more information about the Natural Resources Park or to check out the daily amphitheater schedule, visit ohiodnr.gov/statefair. For more information about the Ohio State Fair, visit ohiostatefair.com.

Submitted by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.