As young parents with kids in tow, we’re always on the lookout for family-friendly destinations that offer both relaxation and adventure. Recently, we took a trip to Hocking Hills, Ohio, and was blown away by the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem. From the awe-inspiring waterfalls to the challenging hiking trails, there was something for everyone in our family to enjoy. We spent our days exploring the great outdoors, soaking in the natural beauty of the region, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for an unforgettable summer vacation destination, look no further than Hocking Hills, Ohio!

A Quick History of Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills is located in Hocking County in southern Ohio as part of Wayne National Forest. The land is part of the Allegheny Plateau that spans from central New York to the north, through Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio, to West Virginia to the south. Over 330 million years ago, this area was covered by the Atlantic Ocean. Over time, it deposited the sand and gravel which eventually formed into the Blackhand sandstone that the area is well known for. As the ocean receded, streams and groundwater cut through the soft middle layers of sandstone. This resulted in the iconic rock formations that we can see today. Native tribes frequently hunted and lived in the region as early as seven thousand years ago.

The Northwest Ordinance of 1787 and the Treaty of Greeneville in 1795 allowed pioneers to settle in the area, where they later contributed in the Civil War by using locally extracted iron. The most famous cave, Old Man’s Cave, is said to have received its name due to a 19th century hermit named Richard Rowe. It is said he lived in the cave after migrating to Ohio from the Cumberland Mountains of Tennessee. He is supposedly buried in the cave. In 1924, the State of Ohio purchased 146 acres of Hocking County which became the first installment of this stunning state park. Over the years, dining halls, log cabins, restrooms, and other accessible amenities have been added to allow all to enjoy the stunning caves, waterfalls, cliffs, and natural beauty of the park.

Many of the well known waterfalls and trails are paved for all levels of accessibility.

When to Visit

There’s no wrong time to visit Hocking Hills. The spring brings life back to the plants, it is an off-season so the park is less crowded. Fall is a popular time to visit because of the stunning colors. Winter is the least visited time for the park, so main visiting areas will be less busy, waterfalls will be frozen over, and it will leave you with a unique getaway.

But this is a summer guide, so although there may be some crowds, here’s some tips to avoid them! Start well-known areas first thing in the morning. Only early morning adventurers will be out with you, a majority of the tourists will still be in the comfort of their lodging starting breakfast. After seeing the waterfalls, keep hiking. Once you leave the main viewing areas, you begin to lose the crowd and the trails become very serene. Another way to beat crowds is to visit during the week, when families are most likely still working. After spending time on the trails, there are plenty of ways to cool down too like canoeing, kayaking, and ziplining. Hocking Hills makes for the perfect vacation away from the daily grind! We were only able to visit for one day, but there are so many amazing activities that I would highly recommend planning for a couple days.

A few more tips

Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes with good ankle support. If you plan to hike the trails, some can be steep and rocky. Hocking Hills is home to many endangered species and unique ecosystems, so be sure to practice respecting nature. It is important to follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on designated trails, and avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife. You will be quite secluded in Hocking Hills. Be sure to download all your directions ahead of time, or print out maps and directions as cellphone service will be spotty. Top off your gas before driving into the Hills, gas stations outside larger towns are far and few between.

What to do in Hocking Hills

I have been sure to list some of the major attractions, but also a few of the hidden gems. While the waterfalls and state park are the main attractions in Hocking Hills, there are also many hidden gems to explore and discover! Check out lesser-known hiking trails, historic sites, and local art galleries to get a deeper understanding of the region’s culture and history.

Hit the Bikeway

Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is one of southeast Ohio’s hidden trail gems! This 20-mile asphalt trail takes you through a college town, scenic natural features, Midwest farmland, and historic stops. You can bring your own bikes or rent them at one of the local establishments.

Must-Visit Waterfalls

These waterfalls are some of the most visited and photographed attractions in Hocking Hills. They offer stunning views and great places for hiking, picnicking, and taking photos. I highly recommend bringing extra clothes for your kids so they can splash and play.

Old Man’s Cave Waterfall - The Old Man’s Cave area is divided into fie different sections along Old Man’s Creek. You will find the Lower Gorge, Lower Falls, Middle Falls, Upper Gorge, and Upper Falls. The entire gorge is about a half mile in length.From the lower falls, you can go through a narrow gorge to get to the relatively unknown Broken Rock Falls. Easy Trail Difficulty.
Cedar Falls - Cedar Falls is a very picturesque valley in the heart of the Lower Gorge. These falls are the largest in volume for the entire Hocking region. Easy trail difficulty.
Ash Cave Waterfall (Pictured above) - You can find this waterfall in the Ash Cave area of the park and it is the largest recess cave in the state. The trail is extremely easy for kids, pets, and parents to walk. Easy trail difficulty. Accessible.
Conkles Hollow Waterfall - Conkles Hollow Waterfall is located in the deepest gorge in Ohio. It drops 25 feet into a gorge. The waterfall may dry up in the summer, but this geological landmark is still an awe-inspiring view. Easy to Moderate trail difficulty.
Rockbridge Falls - The Rockbridge Falls is located in Rockbridge State Nature Preserve, with a 100-foot long natural bridge next to the waterfall. This bridge is the longest natural bridge in Ohio. There isn’t usually a ton of water flowing, but it is still a stunning hike. Easy to Moderate trail difficulty.

Ziplining

Hocking Hills Canopy Tours is well known for its zip line courses. They have a Dragonfly Tour for kids between 35-140lbs, eight kid-friendly zip lines, three fun bridges, and a sky tunnel. You are able to go at your own pace and the staff is well experienced and able to help when children, or parents, get nervous. They also have an off-road Segway adventure tour and a Rockbridge tour.

Rock Climbing

High Rock Adventures offers various guided tours where you can learn about rappelling, rock climbing, unique rocks, ecotours, and even enjoy nature therapy. You can use all of your senses to learn about natural environment in Ohio! Their nature tour is great for families with children of all ages. Families with older or more adventurous kids can enjoy the thrill of rock climbing and rappelling with Ohio’s only canyon rappel.

Crafting

Jack Pine Studio is a glass art studio where you can watch artisans blow glass and create the Jack Pine signature pumpkin. You don’t need to book a tour, just come to the studio during open hours and take a seat. You’ll be treated to a free and educational demo. Afterwards, be sure to swing into the gift shop for a souvenir.

Lockhart Ironworks has classes available for children ages 12 and older on Saturdays. You can learn the lost art of blacksmithing and take your creations home afterwards!

Museums

Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum is located next to the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center and is a free museum! This tiny museum houses more that 3,400 pencil sharpeners in familiar shapes and unique oddities. What a unique stop for families!

AHA Museum is a hands-on museum located about 30 minutes away from Hocking Hills in Lancaaster. There are over 60 hands-on exhibits for children from 6 months to 8 years of age to enjoy. Through play, children can become explorers, scientists, engineers, and artists. Their Raymond B. Martens Nature Playscape is open year-round. Admission is $8.00 per person with 12 months and under being free.

Adventure Parks

NevilleBillie Adventure Parks is an all-day experience for the whole family! You can enjoy the largest family ropes course with over 64 challenges, paintball, a Mystery Shack, and ATV rentals to take out on their private 80 acres with 16 miles of wooded trails.

Kayaking

Hocking Hills Adventures allows you to choose a trip down the river in a canoe or kayak from two to five hours. You can also take a trip in a raft or tube. Afterwards you can enjoy their splash pad or fun center with go karts, mini golf, a game room, and a jump pad.

Mini-Golf

Hocking Hills Mini Golf is a wheelchair friendly, open year-round, family fun stop located near the Hocking Hills Market. After some family fun putt-putting, you can check out the antique shops and dining options in the Market shopping center.

Horseback Riding

Spotted Horse Ranch is a working ranch for new riders to experienced equestrians wanting a guided experience along some of the most scenic trails. Children must be at least 8 years old and 50” tall to ride, for safety reasons they do not allow double riders.

Nature Spaces

Hocking Hills is home to many endangered species of wildlife and visiting other nature areas can serve as an educational opportunity.

Butterfly Ridge - Take guided or self-guided tours around the 21-acre garden that’s overflowing with foliage. You can try to catch a glimpse at butterflies and other pollinators. You can also find a nature play space for kids to explore, and a tree house. They also host a weekly night event in The Mothing Zone, where visitors can witness hundreds of moths and glow-in-the-dark caterpillars!
Muddy Boots - This interactive farm is the perfect experience for families. Enjoy feeding and petting the animals, learn about farm life, and explore the pond habitat. There are animals from rabbits all the way to camels.
Lake Logan Marina - You can rent a pontoon, fish, swim, stand up paddleboat, kayak, and ride-in duck, swan, or dragon paddleboats. Reservations are required, bring your own fishing poles and pack a lunch.
John Glenn Astronomy Park - On clear Friday and Saturday nights from March through Late November, you can enjoy educational programs. During the day, you can witness the closest start to Earth and in the evenings, you can get a chance to view the moon, planet, and stars through a telescope.
Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve - This stunning sheer cliff of Black Hand sandstone rises nearly 200 feet above the valley floor. You can find numerous waterfalls cascading over the sandstone cliffs, cliff tops with jaw-dropping overlooks, and the quiet gorge beneath offering various habitats with unique plants and animals. Pets are not permited, two trails totaling 3.5 miles, a portion of the gorge is wheelchair accessible.
Wahkeena Preserve - This hidden gem is named with an Indigenous word meaning “most beautiful”. It’s located on the edge of Hocking Hills. There are 150 acres of nature preserve featuring sandstone cliffs, tulip trees, oaks, 100 species of birds, and a nature center.

Take a Train Ride

The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway runs on weekends from May through October. You can enjoy historic train rides starting in Nelsonville to East Logan and return. You can also enjoy the Eater Bunny Train, Robbery Train, All-Caboose Train, October fall foliage tours, Santa Trains, and New Year’s Eve Trains. They also just announced their first Mother’s Day Train rides. Be sure to book your reservation!

Where to Stay

During peak summer months, lodging can be difficult to find and book quickly. So be sure to book your lodging or campsite in advance! These campgrounds listed below offer a range of amenities and activities to make your stay in Hocking Hills comfortable and enjoyable.

Buffalo Lodging Company

Glenlaurel, A Scottish Inn and Cottages

Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls

Ravenwood Castle

Hocking Hills State Park Campground

Cedar Falls Campground

Logan / Hocking Hills KOA

Lake Hope State Park Campground

Hocking Hills Adventures and Campground

Where to Find Food & Drink

Hocking Hills has a growing food and beverage scene! With many local restaurants, breweries, and wineries to check out, you have to plan a few breaks for meals. Be sure to try the region’s famous pawpaw fruit and visit the Hocking Hills Winery for a tasting.

Brewery 33

Hocking Hills Coffee Emporium

Hocking Hills Frozen Yogurt

Hocking Hills Winery

Hungry Buffalo

Kindred Spirits Restaurant

M and M Family Diner

Millstone BBQ

Pizza Crossing

Rhapsody

Ridge Inn

Rockmill Brewery

Weaver’s Market & Deli

I hope you found places in Hocking Hills that will leave your family with memories and precious experiences. What are your favorite spots in Hocking Hills?

The Ultimate Guide to Things To Do in Hocking Hills, Ohio: Waterfalls, Hiking, and More!