COLUMBUS, Ohio –The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has opened the online application for its boat dock lottery, offering boat dock slips at 16 scenic state parks for the 2026 season. The lottery application period closes at 11:59 p.m. on October 31.

“Ohio’s state park lakes and reservoirs are some of the most beautiful places to get out on the water,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “The boat dock lottery opens up more opportunities for people to enjoy these shared spaces, whether that means quiet mornings fishing or weekends spent with family and friends. By keeping the process simple and convenient, we’re making it easier for boaters to connect with the outdoor adventures waiting at our award-winning state parks.”

Boaters can submit boat dock lottery applications for 16 of Ohio's state parks for the 2026 boating season.

Boating enthusiasts can apply for available docks at the following state parks: Alum Creek, Buck Creek, Buckeye Lake, Burr Oak, Caesar Creek, Delaware, Dillon, Indian Lake, Lake Milton, Mary Jane Thurston, Mosquito Lake, Paint Creek, Rocky Fork, Salt Fork, Shawnee, and West Branch.

To participate, applicants must submit proof of watercraft ownership (title) and current registration. While you may apply for multiple parks, only one application per household per park is permitted. Those selected will have the opportunity to renew their dock rental annually each spring for up to five years.

Don’t miss your chance to enjoy Ohio’s beautiful waterways in 2026! For more information and to apply, visit ohiodnr.gov/docklottery.

To learn more about dock options at each park, please contact the local park office(s) at:

Alum Creek: (740) 548-4631
Buck Creek: (937) 322-5284
Buckeye Lake:(740) 527-4218
Burr Oak: (740) 767-3570
Caesar Creek: (513) 897-3055
Delaware: (740) 363-4561
Dillon: (740) 453-4377
Indian Lake: (937) 843-2717
Lake Milton: (330) 235-0030
Mary Jane Thurston: (419) 832-7662
Mosquito Lake: (330) 637-2856
Paint Creek: (937) 393-4284
Rocky Fork: (937) 393-4284
Salt Fork: (740) 432-1508
Shawnee: (740) 858-6681
West Branch: (330) 235-0030

Recognized as the No. 1 state park system in America with the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 76 state parks and waterways.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.