9 Unique Things To Do In Hocking Hills State Park

Emily Carter -

Tucked into the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is more than just a destination—it’s an immersive experience into the heart of nature. For visitors staying at nearby vacation rentals or exploring the area for the first time, there’s an endless array of things to do beyond the standard hikes. From waterfalls and wildlife watching to exhilarating zip-lining and quiet stargazing, this natural wonder offers a rich diversity of unique activities.

The park’s serene beauty, combined with its vast selection of things to do, makes it the perfect escape for both outdoor adventurers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Here’s a deep dive into the unique and unforgettable things to do in Hocking Hills State Park, along with a few personal tips to elevate your experience.

1. Trekking Through Paradise: Exploring Iconic Trails

You can’t visit Hocking Hills without indulging in the splendor of its trails. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a casual walk, the park’s trails each tell a story.

Personal Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. The quiet of the forest as the sun rises is magical, and you'll get to experience the trails in their most serene state.

Old Man’s Cave: A Legendary Walk

This one-mile trail is perhaps the most famous in the park. The path winds through breathtaking rock formations, waterfalls, and lush greenery. Named after a hermit who once lived in the cave, the trail’s landmarks like the Grand Tunnel and the Lower Falls feel like nature’s art gallery.

Ash Cave: A Family-Friendly Gem

For an easier adventure, Ash Cave is ideal for families or beginner hikers. This half-mile trail ends at a massive recessed cave, perfect for moments of quiet reflection. In winter, the cave's entrance often glitters with frozen waterfalls, creating a stunning natural ice sculpture.

Cedar Falls: A Photographer’s Paradise

If you’re up for a slightly more challenging trek, the trail to Cedar Falls rewards hikers with one of the most impressive waterfalls in Ohio. Surrounded by dense hemlock trees, Cedar Falls offers stunning photographic opportunities year-round.

2. Chasing Waterfalls: Nature’s Most Peaceful Sights

Waterfalls are one of Hocking Hills' most iconic features. Their tranquil power creates a perfect contrast to the dense woods that surround them. Chasing these waterfalls is one of the most rewarding things to do in the park.

Personal Tip: If you visit in early spring after a rainy period, the waterfalls will be at their most robust. This is also a great time for photography, as the flowing water is more dramatic.

Cedar Falls: A Cascading Wonder

This iconic waterfall, formed by the tumbling waters of Queer Creek, flows year-round. It’s a favorite for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Ash Cave Falls: Seasonal Beauty

Though modest in size during summer, Ash Cave Falls turns into a majestic cascade after significant rainfall. Winter visitors may also witness it as a frozen waterfall, adding to the park's winter charm.

3. Camping Under the Stars: A Nocturnal Adventure

Camping is one of the most immersive ways to experience Hocking Hills. Whether you’re in a tent, RV, or cozy cabin, the experience is unparalleled.

Personal Tip: Don’t forget to bring binoculars for stargazing! The clear skies and low light pollution make it one of the best stargazing spots in Ohio.

Traditional Campgrounds

Hocking Hills offers well-maintained campgrounds with all the essential amenities, including electricity and water hookups. Whether you’re tent camping or setting up your RV, these campgrounds provide a perfect mix of nature and comfort.

Primitive Camping

For those who want to escape the bustle of campgrounds, opt for a more rugged experience with primitive camping. Here, the quiet of the forest becomes your companion.

4. Zip-lining: Adventures from Above

Hocking Hills State Park offers some of Ohio's most thrilling zip-lining experiences, perfect for anyone looking to see the park from a whole new perspective. Imagine soaring through the treetops, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you fly above valleys, streams, and cliffs—all while enjoying panoramic views of this beautiful landscape.

Personal Tip: If you’ve never tried zip-lining before, start with the beginner-friendly lines. They’re designed for newcomers to the sport, offering enough excitement without being too overwhelming. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can graduate to the more advanced lines, where the real adrenaline kicks in.

There are several zip-lining providers in the area, each offering a variety of experiences to suit different skill levels. Some of the more popular options include:

Hocking Hills Canopy Tours: This is one of the best-known zip-lining outfits in the area, offering courses that range from beginner-friendly to advanced. Their SuperZip is particularly exciting, where you can reach speeds of up to 50 mph as you zip along the treetops!

The Dragonfly Zip Line Adventure: Specifically designed for families and beginners, this course is perfect for children or those who are a little nervous about heights but still want to experience the thrill.

Specialty Zip Line Experiences

Many zip-lining providers also offer unique-themed tours. You can choose from twilight tours that let you fly as the sun sets or full-moon zip tours that provide a completely different, mystical experience as you zip through the forest under the stars.

5. Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based Adventures

While Hocking Hills is often celebrated for its hiking trails, it also boasts serene waterways perfect for paddling. Canoeing and kayaking allow visitors to explore the area from a different perspective—gliding silently along rivers and lakes, with nothing but the sound of your paddle cutting through the water.

Personal Tip: Pack a waterproof camera! Some of the most beautiful scenery in Hocking Hills is best seen from the water. You’ll want to capture the towering cliffs and dense forests that reflect on the water’s surface.

Best Spots for Canoeing and Kayaking

Hocking River: The Hocking River is a favorite for paddlers, with its gentle current making it accessible for beginners. The river meanders through forested landscapes, offering stunning views of the park’s cliffs and trees. You might even spot some wildlife along the way, including herons, turtles, and beavers.

Lake Logan: Just a short drive from the park, Lake Logan offers a calm and scenic paddling experience. It's less crowded than the river, making it ideal for a peaceful day out on the water. The lake’s mirror-like surface, especially during the early morning, is perfect for reflection shots if you’re into photography.

Rose Lake: Nestled within the park, Rose Lake is another tranquil spot for kayaking. It’s smaller and more intimate than Lake Logan, and the forested shores create a quiet haven for paddlers. This is an excellent choice for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more secluded water adventure.

Canoeing and Kayaking Rentals

If you don’t have your own gear, don’t worry. Several outfitters in the area offer canoe and kayak rentals, as well as guided tours:

Hocking Hills Canoe Livery: This outfitter offers rentals for both canoes and kayaks, and they can arrange trips down the Hocking River ranging from short, two-hour paddles to full-day adventures.

Lake Logan Marina: Located at Lake Logan, this marina provides kayak and canoe rentals, as well as paddleboards if you want to try something different.

6. Horseback Riding: Explore the Park the Traditional Way

Imagine trotting along shaded forest trails, the rhythmic gait of your horse carrying you deeper into the woods, far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Horseback riding is one of the most serene and traditional ways to explore Hocking Hills, and it offers a connection to nature, unlike any other activity.

Personal Tip: If it’s your first time riding, don’t worry! Many of the stables around Hocking Hills cater to beginners and offer gentle horses along with professional guides who will lead the way. These guides also provide fascinating insights into the park’s history and ecosystem as you ride.

Several stables near the park offer guided trail rides for all experience levels. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, you’ll find something that suits your style.

Uncle Buck's Riding Stable: Uncle Buck's is one of the most popular stables in the area, offering trail rides through some of the most scenic parts of Hocking Hills. They offer everything from short, one-hour rides to longer excursions. The horses are well-trained and the guides are knowledgeable, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.

Happy Trails Horseback Rides: Located near Logan, Happy Trails provides beginner-friendly rides through shaded forest paths and open meadows. Their horses are gentle, and the trails offer plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Spotted Horse Ranch: For those who want a more immersive experience, Spotted Horse Ranch offers horseback riding tours that venture deep into the Hocking Hills wilderness. They also have an equestrian campground for riders who bring their horses.

Specialty Rides

If you’re looking for something a bit different, some stables offer themed rides like sunset tours or moonlight rides. There’s something incredibly peaceful about riding through the forest as the sun sets or under the glow of a full moon.

Personal Tip: A sunset horseback ride is an unforgettable experience. Watching the light fade as you ride through the woods, the evening sounds of nature beginning to stir around you, is something you won’t soon forget. Don’t forget to bring a light jacket, as the temperature can drop quickly after sunset.

7. Seasonal Festivals: Celebrate Local Culture

Hocking Hills isn’t just about outdoor adventure. The area comes alive with seasonal festivals that celebrate local culture, arts, and the natural world.

Winter Hike: A Frosty Tradition

Each January, the Hocking Hills Winter Hike leads adventurers through snow-covered trails from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave. The frosty waterfalls and icicles create an ethereal landscape.

Wildflower Pilgrimage: A Springtime Celebration

Spring ushers in the Wildflower Pilgrimage, a festival dedicated to the park’s vibrant flora. Guided walks offer a chance to see native wildflowers in full bloom.

8. Wildlife Watching: Nature’s Spectacle

Hocking Hills is teeming with wildlife, and with a bit of patience, you might spot some of the park’s more elusive residents.

Personal Tip: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times for wildlife sightings. Bring binoculars for a closer look and consider taking a quieter, less-traveled trail for the best chance at seeing something special.

Birdwatching Heaven

Home to over 150 bird species, Hocking Hills is a birder’s paradise. From the distinctive call of the Pileated Woodpecker to the graceful flight of the Red-tailed Hawk, there’s always something new to spot.

Mammals and Reptiles

Beyond the birdlife, keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and even the occasional bobcat. The park’s creeks and ponds are also home to salamanders, turtles, and snakes.

9. Photography: Capturing Hocking Hills’ Natural Beauty

For photographers, Hocking Hills offers endless opportunities to capture nature at its finest. Whether you’re after landscape shots, waterfalls, or wildlife, the park’s diversity is a dream come true.

Personal Tip: Arrive just after sunrise for the soft, golden light that filters through the trees. Fall is particularly beautiful, with vibrant foliage that contrasts against the rock formations.

Conclusion

Hocking Hills State Park isn’t just a place to visit—it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. The park’s unique blend of adventure and tranquility makes it a haven for travelers seeking everything from heart-pumping thrills to quiet, reflective escapes.

This Ohio gem promises more than just a trip—it offers memories that will stay with you long after you leave. So, pack your curiosity and sense of wonder, and let Hocking Hills work its magic on you.

When you’re ready to plan your getaway, Karta has incredible deals on vacation rentals near Columbus, Ohio, so you can stay close to the adventure while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a nearby retreat.

FAQ

1. How far is Hocking Hills State Park from Columbus, Ohio?

Hocking Hills State Park is approximately 55 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio, and takes about an hour to reach by car via US-33 E. It’s a popular destination for day trips or weekend getaways from the city.

2. What is Hocking Hills State Park known for?

Hocking Hills is best known for its stunning natural features, including scenic gorges, caves, waterfalls, and cliffs. Popular attractions include Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls, along with various outdoor activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and horseback riding.

3. What is the best time to visit Hocking Hills State Park?

The park is beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preference:

  • Spring: Enjoy vibrant wildflowers and full waterfalls.
  • Summer: Warm weather and lush greenery make it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Fall: A favorite for visitors due to the stunning fall foliage.
  • Winter: Quiet and peaceful, with frozen waterfalls creating a magical landscape.