Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Activities
Spend a few relaxing days and nights riverside. Walk into nearby Grand Rapids for a bit of shopping and dining, and then enjoy the rustic outdoors while tucked up safely in the park’s cozy family campground. This picturesque Ohio state park has plenty to offer no matter what time of the year you plan to visit. Picnic areas along the river have picnic tables, grills, restrooms, drinking water, swings, volleyball and basketball courts. The park’s Day Lodge is available for year round gatherings and can accommodate groups up to 5o people. This rustic lodge has tables, chairs, heating and air conditioning and a wood fireplace, plus 2 grills, 2 picnic tables, and a covered porch area. Here are some of the activities that you can do during your visit to Mary Jane Thurston State Park:
Boating at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
See more local flora and fauna as you canoe, kayak, sail, or motor boat along the river. Picturesque Maumee River flows alongside Mary Jane Thurston State Park inviting guests to put their boats in and explore. A boat launch ramp is located near the Marina and the park office carries canoe, kayak, and paddle board rentals.
Hiking at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Put on your most comfortable shoes and grab your binoculars or camera. Mary Jane Thurston State Park’s trails wind along the Maumee River, the campground, through the woodlands, and into the nearby village of Grand Rapids. Additional trails may be accessed in the nearby North Turkeyfoot Wildlife Area. Here are a couple of the trails at Mary Jane Thurston State Park:
- Storybook Trail – An easy 0.5 mile grassy trail that starts near the Marina and follows a segmented children’s story along a wooded path. The storybook changes throughout the year. A Small Free Library located near the start of this trail and guests are encouraged to take a book or leave a book.
- Tow Path – An easy 0.3 mile trail that leads into the village of Grand Rapids.
Fishing at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Mary Jane Thurston State Park’s serene location, alongside the Maumee River, provides guests with easy access to catch bass, catfish, crappie, bullhead, and walleye. Make sure you pack your angling gear and remember to pick up an Ohio fishing license before heading into the park.
Archery at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Mary Jane Thurston State Park features an archery range for guests who bring their own equipment. The range consists of static and 3D targets at distances of 10, 20, 30, and 40 yards for field tips only (no broadheads).
Hunting at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Archery hunting and waterfowl hunting is permitted within designated areas inside Mary Jane Thurston State Park. Be sure to pick up an Ohio hunting license and contact the park for more information.
Birding at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Take a peaceful walk along the trails inside Mary Jane Thurston State Park and you may discover Great Blue Herons, Red-winged Blackbirds, Yellow Warblers, Canadian Geese, Ring-billed Gulls, Swamp Sparrows, and Hairy Woodpeckers.
Nature and Wildlife at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Many lifetimes ago, Lake Erie stretched from western New York to Fort Wayne in Indiana. Today areas of wetlands are still visible in swamp forests, bogs, and streams. Many species thrive within these communities. During your visit to Mary Jane Thurston State Park you may see many species of birds, turtles, snakes, frogs, salamanders and White-tailed Deer, squirrels, and raccoons.
Pets at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Well behaved pets are allowed within designated areas at Mary Jane Thurston State Park. Please supervise your pets and keep them on a hand held leash that is no longer than 6 feet.
Camping at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Spend a few nights inside the Mary Jane Thurston State Park and enjoy some peace and quiet. The park’s campground has 23 electric campsites, 16 tent-only campsites, and an additional 4 premium sites that have both electric and water hookups. Restrooms and outdoor showers are located nearby, and for registered guests showers are available at the Marina. A playground and Saturday night movies in the amphitheater help round out your family vacation. And this cozy camping area is also pet friendly.
Park Location
Mary Jane Thurston State Park 1466 State Route 65 McClure, OH 43534 Phone: 419.832.7662 Park Website Reservations
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Mary Jane Thurston State Park:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ohio state parks free?
Yes, all Ohio state parks offer free admission and free parking. There are no vehicle permits or entrance fees. Camping, cabin rentals, and some activities like golf and marina use have separate fees.
What are the best state parks in Ohio for hiking?
Top hiking parks include Hocking Hills (Old Man’s Cave and waterfalls), Cuyahoga Valley (Brandywine Falls), John Bryan (limestone gorge), and Mohican (covered bridge trail). Hocking Hills is the most popular.
Can I see waterfalls at Hocking Hills?
Yes, Hocking Hills State Park features multiple waterfalls including Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and the famous Old Man’s Cave area. Spring offers the best waterfall flow after snowmelt and rain.
Are there cabins at Ohio state parks?
Yes, many Ohio state parks offer cottages, cabins, and lodge rooms. Hocking Hills, Salt Fork, and Mohican are known for excellent cabin accommodations. Book well in advance for peak season weekends.
Explore More Ohio State Parks
Mary Jane Thurston State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Ohio. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Ohio guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
