The Cardinal Center

For Ohioans seeking a distinctive outdoor experience that blends the tranquility of camping with the excitement of shooting sports, The Cardinal Center in Marengo, Ohio, stands as a truly unique destination. This multifaceted facility offers far more than just a place to set up camp; it’s a vibrant hub for recreation, competition, and community, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the world of shooting. With excellent amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, The Cardinal Center provides a memorable getaway right here in Ohio.

Nestled in Morrow County, The Cardinal Center has earned a reputation as a premier location for trap shooting and a fantastic spot for camping. Its dual focus allows visitors to enjoy a wide range of activities, from casting a line in the fishing pond and taking a dip in the clean pool, to honing their shooting skills on top-tier ranges. The blend of relaxation and active pursuits, coupled with a friendly environment, makes it an appealing choice for a weekend escape or a longer stay.

This article will provide an in-depth look at The Cardinal Center, highlighting its strategic location, the extensive services and features it offers, potential promotions, and essential contact information. We will explore what makes this unique campground and shooting complex a highly suitable option for locals in Ohio looking for an engaging and well-rounded outdoor experience.

Ohio’s diverse recreational offerings include unique venues that cater to specific interests, and The Cardinal Center exemplifies this. By combining a full-service campground with world-class shooting facilities, it provides a specialized experience not commonly found elsewhere. This allows for a harmonious blend of outdoor leisure and sporting passion, ensuring that visitors can pursue their hobbies in a dedicated and supportive environment.

The Cardinal Center is conveniently located at 616 State Rte 61, Marengo, OH 43334, USA. This address places it in Morrow County, Ohio, offering a blend of rural charm and practical accessibility. Marengo is a small community, providing a peaceful backdrop for the center’s activities, yet it remains well-connected to larger urban areas in Ohio.

The location on State Route 61 ensures relatively easy access for visitors traveling from various parts of Ohio. This state route provides direct links to major highways, making the drive to The Cardinal Center straightforward for both local and regional travelers. For example, Marengo is approximately 35 miles north of Columbus, about 60 miles south of Cleveland, and roughly 45 miles east of Marion. This makes it a convenient destination for a day trip or an extended stay from many populated areas across the state.

While The Cardinal Center itself boasts numerous on-site amenities, its proximity to local services in Marengo and nearby towns ensures that visitors have access to any forgotten supplies or additional needs. The area offers basic conveniences, including gas stations and local eateries, although a reviewer notes a "restaurant nearby that usually has live music and pretty decent food" which is a direct benefit of the center’s location.

Beyond the immediate vicinity, the broader region around Marengo provides opportunities for further exploration. Visitors might explore other natural areas in Morrow County or nearby state parks. The combination of a dedicated, specialized facility within a serene rural setting, coupled with reasonable access to urban centers, makes The Cardinal Center a practical and appealing choice for Ohioans seeking a unique recreational and camping experience. The ample space suggested by its facilities allows for comfortable movement and enjoyment of all the center has to offer.

The Cardinal Center offers a comprehensive array of services designed to cater to both campers and shooting sports enthusiasts, creating a unique combined experience. Based on customer reviews and the nature of the facility, the following services are available:

• Camping Facilities: The center provides dedicated camping areas, likely including RV sites with various hook-up options (electric, water, sewer) and potentially tent camping sites. This makes it suitable for overnight stays or longer trips.
• Trap Shooting Ranges: A core offering of The Cardinal Center, it features top-tier trap houses for shooting sports, catering to both casual shooters and competitive participants. Reviewers specifically praise the "White Flyer targets which are the best."
• Fishing Pond: An on-site "pond is cool for fishing," providing a relaxing recreational activity for campers and visitors.
• Swimming Pool: The center boasts a "nice and clean" swimming pool, offering a refreshing way to cool off and relax during warmer months.
• Golf Cart Rentals: "Golf cart rental is super easy and affordable," making it very convenient for visitors to navigate the potentially large grounds and access various amenities and shooting ranges.
• On-Site Restaurant/Dining: There is a "restaurant nearby that usually has live music and pretty decent food," suggesting convenient dining options within or immediately adjacent to the center.
• Retail for Shooting Sports: The presence of "Lots of vendors to buy guns, trap shells and accessories" highlights a significant service for shooting enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of products directly on site during events.
• Event Hosting: The center regularly hosts shooting events, with one reviewer mentioning shooting "4 events during the summer," indicating a schedule of competitions and gatherings.
• Friendly Staff and Service: Reviewers consistently praise the "super nice" people and "great service at the camp office," indicating a positive and welcoming environment for visitors.

This robust combination of services ensures that visitors have everything they need for an enjoyable and engaging experience, whether their primary focus is camping, shooting, or a blend of both.

The Cardinal Center distinguishes itself with a unique blend of features, making it a highly attractive destination for both campers and shooting sports enthusiasts in Ohio:

• Premier Shooting Sports Facility: A major highlight is its reputation as an "absolute favorite place to shoot." The presence of multiple "trap houses" and the use of "White Flyer targets which are the best" indicate a high-quality, professional shooting environment that appeals to serious participants.
• Comprehensive Camping Amenities: Beyond shooting, the center offers excellent camping facilities. The "pond is cool for fishing" and the "pool is nice and clean" provide recreational options for all ages, ensuring a well-rounded outdoor experience.
• Friendly and Welcoming Atmosphere: Consistent feedback emphasizes that "The people there are super nice and the service is great at the camp office." This friendly and supportive environment is crucial for creating a positive visitor experience, especially for those new to shooting sports.
• On-Site Dining and Entertainment: The convenience of a "restaurant nearby that usually has live music and pretty decent food" adds significant value, providing easy meal options and evening entertainment without leaving the complex.
• Convenient Navigation with Golf Cart Rentals: The "golf cart rental is super easy and affordable and that makes it very helpful to get around." This feature is particularly beneficial given the likely size of the facility, allowing easy access to ranges, camping sites, and amenities.
• Dedicated Vendors for Shooting Needs: The presence of "Lots of vendors to buy guns, trap shells and accessories" during events is a significant highlight for shooting enthusiasts, offering a convenient one-stop shop for equipment and supplies.
• Community-Focused Events: The active hosting of shooting "events during the summer" fosters a strong sense of community among participants, providing opportunities for competition and camaraderie.
• Unique Combination of Activities: The blend of high-quality shooting ranges with traditional campground amenities like fishing and swimming offers a distinctive experience that caters to a diverse range of interests, appealing to families and individuals alike.

These features collectively establish The Cardinal Center as a highly recommended and "awesome place to go to," providing a specialized yet welcoming environment for its visitors.

While specific, time-limited promotions for camping or shooting events at The Cardinal Center are best confirmed directly, facilities of this nature often feature various offers to attract and reward their visitors. Based on their comprehensive services, potential promotions could include:

• Event-Specific Packages: Discounts or bundled deals for participants registering for multiple shooting events throughout the season, as suggested by reviews mentioning shooting "4 events during the summer."
• Seasonal Camping Rates: Special pricing for longer-term camping stays, appealing to those who wish to frequent the center for shooting competitions or extended relaxation.
• First-Time Shooter Incentives: Discounts on range fees or introductory packages for new visitors interested in trying trap or other shooting sports.
• Group Rates: Special pricing for clubs, teams, or large groups booking shooting lanes or camping sites.
• Golf Cart Rental Bundles: Discounts on golf cart rentals when booked for multiple days or as part of a larger camping/shooting package.
• Restaurant Specials: The nearby restaurant might offer specific deals during live music nights or for event attendees.

Given the strong community and event focus, The Cardinal Center is likely to communicate special offers through its official website, social media channels, or directly via phone inquiries. Interested individuals are highly encouraged to contact the center to inquire about any current promotions that might enhance their visit or participation in events.

To learn more about The Cardinal Center, inquire about camping reservations, shooting range availability, event schedules, or any other questions you may have, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 616 State Rte 61, Marengo, OH 43334, USA
• Phone: (419) 253-0035

It is advisable to call during standard business hours to speak with a representative at the camp office, who are described as "super nice" and providing "great service." This will ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their offerings and any current promotions.

The Cardinal Center in Marengo, Ohio, is exceptionally suitable for locals across the Ohio region, particularly those who appreciate a unique blend of outdoor recreation, community engagement, and specialized sporting activities. Its distinct offerings and positive reputation make it a compelling destination for a wide range of Ohioans.

Firstly, for enthusiasts of shooting sports, The Cardinal Center is an unparalleled local resource. Its world-class trap houses, featuring "White Flyer targets which are the best," provide a premier environment for both casual shooting and competitive events. The presence of numerous vendors offering "guns, trap shells and accessories" during events further enhances its appeal as a comprehensive hub for the shooting community. This dedicated focus means that locals with an interest in shooting sports have access to top-tier facilities and a supportive network right in their backyard. The friendly participants, as noted in reviews, also contribute to a welcoming atmosphere for both seasoned shooters and newcomers.

Secondly, beyond the shooting ranges, The Cardinal Center offers a robust campground experience that caters to general outdoor recreation. The "cool for fishing" pond and "nice and clean" swimming pool provide excellent opportunities for relaxation and family fun. This dual functionality means that families can enjoy a full camping trip, complete with traditional outdoor activities, while also having the option to engage in shooting sports if they choose. The ease and affordability of "golf cart rental" make navigating the large complex effortless, enhancing the overall convenience of a visit.

Finally, the strong positive feedback regarding the "super nice" people and "great service at the camp office" highlights a welcoming and supportive environment. This human element is crucial in making a place feel like a community, encouraging repeat visits and fostering a sense of belonging. The availability of a nearby restaurant with live music also adds a social and entertainment dimension, extending the experience beyond just camping and shooting.

In conclusion, The Cardinal Center stands as an "awesome place to go to" for Ohioans. Its unique combination of premier shooting facilities, comprehensive camping amenities, and a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a diverse range of local interests, offering a truly distinctive and rewarding outdoor experience.