On Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., the westbound loop road in Ariel-Foundation Park will be closed to through traffic to Harcourt Road. The park is hosting the JROTC Challenge Run with multiple teams competing throughout the day. Thank you for your understanding and patience!
A joint water rescue and dive team exercise with Fredericktown and Danville will take place in the lakes area of the park between 8:30AM and 2:00PM on Wednesday July 19, 2023. Ariel Foundation Park is not only a natural biology lab for area schools, but our local area First Responders use it as a convenient classroom where they can regularly practice and hone their skills.
There have been some conversations in the community about the clearing of the area behind the Kiwanis Pavilion north of Center Lake. Since the Park was developed it has become increasingly difficult to manage the spot growth of invasive species such as autumn olive. With input from ODNR, the City Tree Commission and others it was decided to address the worst areas and mechanically clear the infestation. We have completed phase one of the process. We now are moving on to phase two which is to destroy the root systems of this invasive growth. Phase three will be to plant over 50 native Ohio trees to provide future bird habitat and aesthetically pleasing shaded areas. Please bear with us as we move forward in our efforts to continuously monitor, manage and improve our beautiful park.
There will not be a 2023 Summer Fitness Program
The Unassuming Town of Mt. Vernon, Ohio is One of America's Best Hidden Gems For A Weekend Getaway
To reserve a venue or picnic pavilion, click here or call 740-501-9293.
Vision Statement
• Ariel-Foundation Park will be a world class example of adaptive reuse that honors its industrial heritage and is the focal point for recreation, entertainment, and social interaction in Knox County.
Mission Statement
• The mission of Foundation Park Conservancy is to lead and support the economic stability, preservation, development, programming, and promotion of Ariel-Foundation Park in collaboration with the City of Mount Vernon.
Ariel-Foundation Park is officially open April 1 through November 15. Some areas of the park are accessible to pedestrians year-round. Daily hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. There are no admissions or parking fees. The Rastin Observation Tower, park museum, picnic pavillions, trails and other park features are free and open to the public. The Rastin Observation Tower is open during winter months, as long as weather allows.
Foundation Park Conservancy
P.O. Box 644, Mount Vernon, OH 43050
[email protected]
740-501-9293
Mount Vernon City Parks Department
1700 Old Delaware Road, Mount Vernon, OH 43050
[email protected]
740-393-9501