ODNR purchased 1,890 life jackets to supply these stations, ensuring that visitors have access to properly fitting flotation devices, whether they’re paddling, fishing, or enjoying a day at the beach.
The life jacket stations are stationed near boating docks and beaches, providing safety equipment and spreading the message of safe boating.
According to national data, approximately 75% of all boating deaths are due to drowning, and in 87% of those cases, the person was not wearing a life jacket.
By giving boaters, paddlers, anglers, and beachgoers easy, no-cost access to this critical safety gear, ODNR hopes to significantly reduce the risk of tragedy on Ohio’s lakes and rivers.
Life jacket loaner stations are now available at the following Ohio State Parks:
Northeast Ohio:
- Findley
- Geneva (multiple stations)
- Headlands Beach
- Portage Lakes
- Punderson
- Mosquito Lake
Southeast Ohio:
- Barkcamp
- Blue Rock
- Burr Oak (multiple stations)
- Dillon
- Forked Run
- Jesse Owens
- Lake Logan (multiple stations)
- Lake White
- Muskingum River Parkway
- Strouds Run
- Wolf Run
Central & Southwest Ohio:
- Buckeye Lake (multiple stations)
- Caesar Creek
- Cowan Lake (multiple stations)
- Deer Creek
- Hueston Woods
- Indian Lake
- Kiser Lake
- Rocky Fork
Northwest Ohio & Islands:
- Catawba Island
- Grand Lake St. Marys (multiple stations)
- Harrison Lake
- Kelleys Island
- Lake Milton
- Mary Jane Thurston
- South Bass Island
Whether you’re planning a day trip or just passing through, ODNR invites you to grab a jacket, enjoy Ohio’s natural beauty, and return the jacket when you’re done.
It’s simple, it’s smart, and it could save a life.
