The Cardinal Center

cardinal center campground, cardinal campground in marengo ohio

For Ohioans seeking a unique blend of outdoor recreation, competitive shooting sports, and family-friendly camping, The Cardinal Center in Marengo stands out as a premier destination. More than just a campground, it's a sprawling complex that has earned a reputation as "my absolute favorite place to shoot and camp" among its dedicated visitors. Whether you're an avid shooter, a casual angler, or a family looking for a relaxing weekend getaway with plenty of activities, The Cardinal Center offers a comprehensive and welcoming experience right in the heart of Ohio.

This article is tailored specifically for local Ohio users, aiming to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of The Cardinal Center. We'll delve into its convenient location, the extensive range of services and amenities it offers, its distinctive features and highlights, and why it's consistently recommended for a truly "awesome" time. Prepare to discover a multifaceted recreational hub that caters to diverse interests, all within easy reach for residents of the Buckeye State.

The Cardinal Center's journey to becoming one of the largest privately owned recreational shooting facilities in the country is a testament to vision and dedication. Owned by Jack Fishburn and his family, the story began with the purchase of a "run-down campground along Interstate 71" with the initial thought of developing it into a family-friendly camping spot. However, a pivotal conversation with members of the Ohio State Trapshooting Association (OSTA) sparked a new direction. Inspired by the camaraderie and trust within the shooting community, where participants would leave expensive firearms unattended, Fishburn decided to embrace the shooting sports. In 2005, the transformation began, leading to the grand opening of trapshooting fields and other shooting amenities in time for the 2006 summer season. Since then, The Cardinal Center has expanded dramatically, now boasting 52 trapshooting fields, 14 skeet fields, 14 pistol and rifle ranges, two sporting clays courses, and an archery range across its 500-acre property. It has become a national hub, hosting major events like the SCTP and SASP National Championships, drawing thousands of young shooters and countless competitions. This rich history highlights its evolution from a simple campground into a world-class facility that successfully blends competitive sports with a welcoming recreational environment.

The Cardinal Center is strategically located at 616 State Rte 61, Marengo, OH 43334, USA. This central Ohio location offers excellent accessibility from various parts of the state, making it a convenient destination for locals. Marengo is a small village in Morrow County, providing a peaceful, rural setting that feels like an escape from urban hustle, yet it remains within a reasonable driving distance of major Ohio cities like Columbus and Cleveland.

Its direct access via State Route 61 ensures a straightforward drive for most visitors, regardless of whether they are towing an RV or simply coming for a day of shooting. The expansive nature of the property, spanning over 500 acres, means that despite its popularity, the various sections of the center, including the campground and shooting ranges, are well-separated. This design contributes to a feeling of spaciousness and helps manage noise, allowing different activities to coexist harmoniously.

The accessibility is further enhanced by the availability of affordable golf cart rentals, which visitors highlight as "super easy and affordable and that makes it very helpful to get around." This amenity is particularly beneficial for navigating the large grounds, moving between camping sites, shooting ranges, the pond, or the restaurant. This thoughtful provision ensures that all areas of the extensive facility are easily reachable, contributing significantly to a positive visitor experience.

The Cardinal Center offers a comprehensive array of services designed to cater to both shooting enthusiasts and traditional campers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging stay.

• Camping Facilities: The campground boasts over 400 campsites, including full or partial hookup sites that are "big rig friendly" and accommodate slide-out RVs. Many sites come with 20/30/50 amp connections, water, and sewer hook-ups. They also offer basic sites with electric connections, as well as primitive/dry camping options for tents. Each site typically includes picnic tables, fire circles, and grills.
• Cabin Rentals: For those without an RV or tent, The Cardinal Center provides a range of cabin options. This includes 9 standard cabins and 20 deluxe cabins, with deluxe cabins available year-round. These cabins offer more than a standard hotel room, featuring kitchens (refrigerator, microwave, coffee pot, dinette), private bathrooms with showers, and living rooms with AC, heat, and TV. Linens, towels, and utensils are recommended to be brought by guests.
• Shooting Center: A core offering, the facility includes 52 trap houses, 14 skeet fields, 2 sporting clays courses, an International Bunker Trap, a 5-stand, 14 pistol & rifle bays, and an archery practice range with a 3D course. They use high-quality "White Flyer targets," and the staff and participants are known for being "super nice" and "very friendly."
• Fishing Pond: The "pond is cool for fishing," offering a relaxing activity. It's a catch-and-release pond, perfect for an afternoon of angling.
• Swimming Pool: A "nice and clean" indoor pool is available, providing a great way to cool off or get some exercise, regardless of the weather.
• Golf Cart Rentals: As highlighted by reviews, golf cart rentals are "super easy and affordable," making it convenient to navigate the expansive grounds.
• On-Site Restaurant & Entertainment: There's a restaurant nearby (likely on-site or very close by) that "usually has live music and pretty decent food," offering convenient dining and entertainment options without leaving the property.
• Camp Office & Service: Visitors consistently praise the "great service at the camp office," indicating helpful and friendly staff who are ready to assist.
• Basic Amenities: The campground provides essential facilities such as restrooms with hot showers and laundry facilities. A dump station is also available for RVers.
• Pro Shop/Vendors: For shooting enthusiasts, there are "lots of vendors to buy guns, trap shells and accessories," making it a convenient one-stop shop for all shooting needs during events.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed at Cardinal Center Campground, provided they are kept on a leash and attended to. They are not permitted in cabins, buildings, or the pool area.

The Cardinal Center truly stands out with a multitude of features that make it a premier destination for Ohioans.

• World-Class Shooting Facilities: As one of the largest privately owned recreational shooting facilities, it's a paradise for trap, skeet, sporting clays, pistol, rifle, and archery enthusiasts. The use of "White Flyer targets" and the friendly community of shooters create an exceptional experience.
• Diverse Camping Options: From spacious full hookup RV sites to cozy standard and deluxe cabins, The Cardinal Center caters to all types of campers. The year-round availability of deluxe cabins is a significant advantage.
• Abundance of Activities Beyond Shooting: It's not just for shooters. The "cool" fishing pond, the "nice and clean" indoor pool, and areas for horseshoes, cornhole, kayaking, and canoeing ensure there's plenty to do for families and non-shooters.
• Exceptional Customer Service: Repeated praise for "super nice" people and "great service at the camp office" highlights a welcoming and helpful staff, making visitors feel valued and comfortable.
• On-Site Dining and Live Music: The convenience of a nearby restaurant offering "pretty decent food" and "live music" adds a fantastic social dimension to the stay, eliminating the need to leave the grounds for evening entertainment.
• Convenient Golf Cart Rentals: The ease and affordability of golf cart rentals are a practical highlight, especially given the expansive nature of the property, enhancing mobility and enjoyment for all guests.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Despite its focus on shooting, the comprehensive amenities like a playground, pool, and diverse activities make it "a great facility for family camping."
• Strategic Central Ohio Location: While offering a feeling of escape, its location in Marengo provides easy access from various parts of Ohio, making it a viable weekend getaway or event hub for a wide range of residents.

While specific, ongoing "special offers" may vary and are best confirmed directly, The Cardinal Center's operational model, especially around its numerous shooting events, often provides value in its offerings. Ohio locals interested in visiting should consider the following:

• Event Packages: For major shooting competitions like the Buckeye Open or the Ohio State Shoot, specific camping packages might be available, bundling entry fees with accommodations. Checking their official website's "Trap & Sporting Clays" and "Camping" sections, or directly contacting them, is recommended for event-specific rates.
• Seasonal Rates: Camping and cabin rental rates can vary by season. Inquiring about off-peak season pricing might offer more affordable options for a relaxed getaway. For instance, dry camping is listed at $35/day, while full hookup sites typically cost around $35-$40/night.
• Group Rates: For large groups or competitive teams, contacting the center directly about potential group discounts for camping or facility rentals (like their banquet hall) could be beneficial.
• Membership Benefits: While not explicitly stated, shooting centers often have memberships that provide discounts on range fees or even accommodations; this would be worth inquiring about for frequent visitors.

The best way to uncover any specific promotions or tailored offers is to directly contact The Cardinal Center via phone or their official website.

For reservations, inquiries about shooting events, camping availability, cabin rentals, or any other information, The Cardinal Center is readily accessible via the following contact details:

Address: 616 State Rte 61, Marengo, OH 43334, USA

Phone: (419) 253-0035

Mobile Phone: +1 419-253-0035

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially during major shooting events or peak camping seasons, to ensure availability and confirm any specific requirements or rules for your visit. The reviews highlight "great service at the camp office," suggesting that direct communication will be a smooth and helpful process.

The Cardinal Center in Marengo offers a highly suitable and multifaceted recreational destination for Ohio locals, catering to a diverse range of interests. Its unique blend of world-class shooting sports facilities and a well-equipped, family-friendly campground makes it an appealing choice for various types of visitors from across the state.

For shooting enthusiasts, it's an unparalleled hub where they can refine their skills, participate in major competitions, and connect with a "very friendly" community of fellow shooters, all within easy driving distance. The availability of numerous vendors further enhances this experience, providing convenience for purchasing gear and accessories.

Beyond the shooting ranges, The Cardinal Center genuinely shines as a comprehensive family camping destination. The "nice and clean" indoor pool, the "cool" fishing pond, and other recreational activities like horseshoes and cornhole ensure that there's ample entertainment for all ages. The option of comfortable RV sites with full hookups or well-appointed cabins provides flexible lodging solutions. The "super nice" staff and "great service at the camp office" contribute significantly to a welcoming and stress-free environment, making visitors feel right at home.

Its central Ohio location offers a convenient "getaway" without requiring extensive travel, making it perfect for weekend trips or longer stays. The affordability and ease of golf cart rentals are an added bonus, enhancing mobility and enjoyment across the large property. For Ohioans seeking a place where they can indulge in a passion, unwind with family, or simply enjoy a relaxing weekend with a mix of activities, The Cardinal Center is an "awesome place to go to," offering something for everyone right in their home state.

The Cardinal Center

616 State Rte 61, Marengo, OH 43334, USA