About

Great Parks

About

About Great Parks

Great Parks (formerly Hamilton County Park District) was created in 1930 to protect local natural resources and provide outdoor recreation and education for area residents. Great Parks is a separate political subdivision of the State of Ohio, governed by a Board of Park Commissioners. Five board members are appointed by the Judge of Hamilton County Probate Court, the Honorable Ralph Winkler, and serve without compensation.

Mission & Values

To preserve and protect natural resources and to provide outdoor recreation and education in order to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations.

Core Values: Integrity, Sustainability, Inclusivity, Fun

Administrative Assistance

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Policies & Permits Icon Guest Relations

Address

10245 Winton Road
Cincinnati, Ohio 45231

Email Us


Phone: 513-521-7275
Hours:

Guest Relations

  • Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
  • Holidays & Sat., Sun. Memorial Day - Labor Day: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  • Closed: New Year's Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas

Ranger Headquarters

  • Daily: 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  • Closed: Christmas, New Year's Day

Emergencies

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In case of emergencies, please call 911

Great Parks Rangers

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Non-Emergency: (513) 521-3980

Guest Relations

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513-521-7275

Great Parks Administrative Headquarters

Guest Relations

Great Parks consists of 22 parks and conservation areas across Hamilton County, Ohio, with its operational headquarters based in Winton Woods. While some parks have direct phone numbers, the Guest Relations team is available to answer questions of all types, about all destinations.

Great Parks Rangers

Great Parks Rangers are state-certified law enforcement officers who exercise full police powers and provide year-round, 24-hour park patrol service. 

They enforce federal and state laws, as well as Great Parks of Hamilton County bylaws, to help ensure the safety and enjoyment of guests, the protection of park facilities and its more than 18,000 acres of parkland. 

Rangers are trained in CPR and first aid and patrol by car, ATV, bike, and foot.

Comprehensive Master Plan

The Comprehensive Master Plan is a guiding document that sets the vision for parks, facilities, programming and services. The Comprehensive Master Plan was adopted in January 2019 and will be in effect through December 2028.

COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN
Waterfall in Sharon Gorge at Sharon Woods

Motor Vehicle Permits (MVP)

Motor vehicle permits can be purchased online, at welcome booths at park entrances or in any visitor center for $10 for Hamilton County Residents and $16 for non-residents. They are valid from the date of purchase through December 31 of the year listed on the permit.

Great Parks MVP
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Purchase an MVP

2025 MVPs On Sale Now

Order Online

MVP-Free Days

Community Access

Motor vehicle permits are not required on the following days to support access to parks within our communities.

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • Random Acts of Kindness Day
  • Earth Day
  • Kids to Parks Day
  • National Trails Day
  • Juneteenth
  • Great Parks Birthday
  • National Public Lands Day
  • Veterans Day
  • Opt Outside Day

Additionally, through various programs, armed forces veterans, library cardholders, college and university students and residents with a valid food assistance card can gain free or discounted entry into parks and facilities.

Learn More
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Feedback Survey

Your opinions are greatly appreciated and help us improve the park experience for everyone!

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