Visitor Information

Park Map | Trails/Distance Map

Park Hours
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 will be open during winter months as long as the weather allows.

Parking
Park in designated areas only. During the winter, the park's internal roads and parking lots are closed to vehicles. However the main parking lots at the William A. Stroud Visitor Center, Schnormeier Event Center and Urton Clock House will remain open.

Accessibility
The William A. Stroud Welcome Center (CA&C Railroad Depot), Schnormeier Event Center, Community Foundation Pavillion, Urton Clock House, restrooms and picnic pavillions are all handicap accessible.

Park Rules

Schnormeier Event Center
No outside food or beverage is allowed in the event center. Pets and smoking are prohibited as well. No bikes, skateboards, or rollerblades (please walk them through). Only alcohol purchased at park functions is allowed in the event center (must be kepts within the fenced in area).

Pets
Friendly pets are allowed in the park if kept on a leash. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Pets are not allowed in the Event Center during concerts/events.

Fishing
Fishing is allowed in the stocked West, Central and East lakes only. A current Ohio fishing license is required for those 16 and older.

Boating
Boating is permitted in the three main lakes only, with the following restrictions: crafts must be hand launched, no gasoline engines, no sailboats (catamarans are allowed). All State of Ohio, Division of Watercraft laws must be observed.

Swimming
Swimming and wading are NOT permitted in the park's lakes or reflecting pools.

Camping
There is no camping allowed in the park. Special circumstances may be considered but will go through a consideration proecess with the City of Mount Vernon and the Foundation Park Conservancy board. Call 740-501-9293 for more info.

Alcoholic Beverages
Public consumption of alcoholic beverages is NOT permitted within Ariel-Foundation Park. (Call 740-501-9293 to inquire about licensed alcoholic beverage service at special events sponsored by the Foundation Park Conservancy, or for private events in one of the park's rental venues.)

For Your Safety
Do not climb on the park's steel sculptures or building ruins.

Please Keep Our Park Clean
Place all trash in the trash receptacles provided. Leave pavillions and picnic tables clean for the next visitor. If you have questions, please call the Mount Vernon City Parks Department at 740-393-9577.

Lanterns/Balloons
Sky lanterns are illegal in the state of Ohio. Balloon releases, while not yet illegal, are not allowed at the park. They are hazardous to area wildlife and create litter. If you are having a memorial event at the park, consider an environmentally friendly alternative like planting a memorial tree. Contact park manager with questions.