Mary Jane Thurston State Park

Admission to Mary Jane Thurston State Park is free.

  • Open daily dawn to dusk
  • Location: (Map It) On State Route 65, west of Grand Rapids, Ohio
  • Phone: 419-832-7662
  • Web: click here

Mary Jane Thurston State Park is situated along the historic Maumee River and offers a variety of day-use and overnight activities. The Maumee is not only scenic but also provides some of the best stream fishing in Ohio. Boaters have access to the river while history buffs may explore the remnants of the old canal. A small campground offers 35 non-electric sites. Fifteen of these sites are designated for walk-in tent camping. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided. Latrines and restrooms are located nearby. Additional walk-in sites are available in the North Turkeyfoot Area. Permits can be obtained at the park office. Two deluxe camper cabins are available to rent. A one-mile portion of the Buckeye Trail passes through the park following the side cut canal. The trail continues on to the Village of Grand Rapids. A one-mile loop trail winds through the floodplain forest while an easy half-mile trail circles the day-use area. Six miles of trails in the North Turkeyfoot Area may be used for backpacking, horseback riding or mountain biking. Campers can enjoy summer nature programs at the amphitheater. Horseshoe pits also provide recreation for campers. Playgrounds are offered at both the campground and the day-use areas of the park. The day-use lodge is handicapped accessible and open year-round.