Ohio’s Mohican State Park visitor center in progress

Loudonville, Ohio — A new Mohican State Park visitor center is taking shape, bringing an exciting addition to one of Ohio’s most beloved state parks. Despite winter’s chill, construction crews have continued their work, steadily advancing toward an anticipated late 2025 opening.

The ODNR Division of Engineering and construction crews are nearing completion of the truss installation, a key milestone in the project’s progress.

By late February, crews anticipate completing the roofing, bringing the structure closer to its final form.

“We’re thrilled to see this project moving forward, even through the challenges of winter weather,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “The new visitor center will serve as a gateway to Mohican State Park, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about the area’s natural beauty while enhancing their overall park experience.”

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Strategically located near the park’s main entrance, the new visitor center will be a prominent feature visible from the roadway.

Nestled next to the state scenic Clear Fork of the Mohican River within the floodplain, the site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and accessibility. The building’s design includes an extended, low-slope ramp leading to the entrance, flanked by educational rain gardens and gathering spaces, providing visitors with interactive and educational opportunities.

The visitor center’s grand entrance will feature landscaping to mitigate potential flooding concerns. The space will also feature exterior porches and a fireplace, creating a welcoming space for visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors year-round. Inspired by traditional forest lodges, the new visitor center will have olive green exterior siding atop a stone base, reflecting the stone outcroppings found throughout the park. Shaded porches and stone chimneys will add to the building’s inviting, homey ambiance.

Inside, the new Mohican State Park visitor center will offer a central exhibit space flanked by two wings – with one wing housing restrooms and a retail area, and the wing other providing space for staff operations and storage. Thoughtfully designed entry points at both ends will allow easy access from the parking lot and nearby campground. A secure vestibule will also permit off-hours use of restrooms and drinking fountains.

Mohican State Park is known for its rugged beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreation opportunities, attracting hikers, bikers, paddlers, and campers year-round. With the completion of the new visitor center, guests can now enjoy an enhanced experience that connects them to the park’s natural and cultural heritage.

This project was administered in cooperation with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission.