Ohio has a number of laws governing where people who hold licenses to carry concealed weapons -- sometimes called "CCW" licenses -- are allowed to bring their guns. Technically, Ohio law does not prevent CCW holders from bringing their weapons into state parks, although it does not officially condone doing so. In addition, federal law allows CCW holders to carry their weapons in federal parks, although they are generally not allowed to discharge them.

Ohio CCW Licenses

In Ohio, an individual who applies for and receives a concealed weapon license is allowed to carry the weapon for which he is licensed. Ohio is also an open carry state, meaning that in most areas you are allowed to bear your weapon out in the open legally. However, there are certain restrictions on the use of this weapon, including many areas in which it is illegal to carry it.

Places Where Guns Are Prohibited

It is illegal to carry concealed weapons within government buildings -- this includes universities, schools and police stations -- and on the grounds of the state capitol building. However, Ohio state law says nothing about it being illegal to carry weapons on state grounds other than the capitol. Therefore, a careful reading of the law means that it is legal to carry concealed weapons on all outdoor state land, which includes state parks.

Ohio State Parks

Ohio maintains a system of state parks that are open to the public year round. While under Ohio law, it would be legal to take a concealed weapon into these state parks, it would not be legal to bring that same weapon into a government building on the premises of the state park. This means you cannot carry a concealed weapon into state park lodges and cabins. However, restrooms are exempt; you may enter a building to use the restroom with a concealed weapon, but you must leave the weapon outside if you use the building for any other purpose. You can, however, carry the firearm on campgrounds, but it is illegal to discharge the concealed firearm while in the park.

National Parks

In addition to being allowed to bring concealed weapons into Ohio state parks, individuals are allowed to bring weapons into federal parks, too. Ohio state law prohibits bringing guns into areas in which federal law bans them; therefore, if federal law changes, then Ohio law will also ban them in federal parks. Also, if a federal ranger approaches you in a federal park and you are carrying a weapon, you are required to notify him of this.

About the Author

Based in New York City, Joseph Eliot has been a writer since 2007. He holds a master's degree in journalism, with a focus on cultural reporting.

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