Hocking Hills State Park

Tucked away in the southeast corner of Ohio, you’ll find the enchanting realm of Hocking Hills—a region of unparalleled natural splendor, embracing the celebrated Hocking Hills State Park, numerous nature preserves, and a lush state forest. This area invites visitors to immerse themselves in a captivating blend of geological marvels and verdant landscapes.

The topography of Hocking Hills tells a story from over 350 years ago, harking back to a time when Ohio was cradled beneath a shallow sea. Today, the remnants of this ancient time are beautifully preserved in the dramatic landscapes, carved from Blackhand sandstone and shale. Over the centuries, the forces of nature have meticulously shaped the land, creating majestic caves, imposing cliffs, sheltering rock formations, and graceful waterfalls.

By the 1870s, word had spread about the magical allure of Hocking Hills, drawing visitors from across the country to bask in its scenic splendor. In a landmark decision in 1924, the state of Ohio stepped in to safeguard this treasure, purchasing a 146-acre tract at Old Man’s Cave, ensuring that the wonders of Hocking Hills would be preserved for generations to come. The park’s facilities were further enriched in 1972, with the opening of a warm and welcoming dining lodge and a collection of quaint cottages. After a fire, the lodge was rebuilt in 2023, providing guests with a luxurious sanctuary in the heart of nature, complete with a full-service restaurant, café, and ballroom.

Today, Hocking Hills continues to captivate the hearts of travelers with its array of natural treasures. From the mesmerizing waterfalls that cascade into cool, hemlock-shaded gorges, to the magnificent cliffs offering sweeping views of the landscape, the park is a haven for those seeking adventure and beauty. Visitors can embark on a journey of discovery through the six distinct regions of Hocking Hills State Park—each with its own unique natural attractions.

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Ash Cave

Ash Cave, the largest recessed cave in the state, can be reached by walking through a slender gorge lined with towering hemlocks and various hardwood trees. Spanning 700 feet in width and reaching depths of 100 feet, the cave is accentuated by a stunning 100-foot waterfall from the East Fork of Queer Creek. Its name, “Ash Cave,” stems from the discovery of enormous ash piles beneath the overhang. These piles, stretching 100 feet in length, 30 feet in width, and 3 feet in depth, are believed to have originated from either Native American campfires or early smelting processes.

Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls, located along Queer Creek, holds the distinction of being Hocking Hills’ most voluminous waterfall. In the mid-1850s, a mill was built just above this impressive 50-foot horsetail cascade. Interestingly, the area got its name from the tall hemlock trees present there, which were mistakenly identified as cedars.

A short distance away is Hidden Falls. As its name suggests, this 15-foot waterfall is cleverly concealed behind a massive boulder, making it a hidden gem in the landscape.

Cantwell Cliffs

Cantwell Cliffs, located at a more remote spot compared to other Hocking Hills attractions, is a treasure along Buck Run. Here, visitors can explore deep rock shelters, towering cliffs, and a secluded valley. For those looking for panoramic views, the Rim Trail is a perfect choice. Meanwhile, the valley trail provides captivating upward perspectives of both the cliff and the creek valley.

Conkles Hollow

Conkles Hollow presents a strikingly deep and rugged gorge, its cliffs majestically rising up to 200 feet. Atop the rim, hardwoods and hemlocks jostle for space. Below, a rich tapestry of ferns, wildflowers, and a thick canopy of trees barely allows sun rays to touch the narrow valley floor, which, in some spots, measures only 100 feet across. Recognized as a State Nature Preserve, Conkles Hollow owes its name to W.J. Conkle, a German immigrant who etched his initials into the rock back in 1797.

Old Man’s Cave

Old Man’s Cave stands as the most popular spot in Hocking Hills. This area showcases a variety of attractions, including the Devil’s Bathtub, Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls, all connected by a half-mile gorge intricately carved from Blackhand sandstone. The site is crisscrossed by an intricate trail system: some run alongside the rims on both the northern and southern edges, while another trail weaves through the gorge itself. The cave draws its name from a rock shelter once inhabited by Richard Rowe, a hermit from the 19th century. Legend has it that Rowe’s final resting place is under a nearby cave ledge.

Rock House

Rock House holds the distinction of being the only genuine cave in Hocking Hills State Park. Over the millennia, the persistent action of water eroded the Black Hand Sandstone, giving birth to this cave, which has served many roles throughout history.

This unique cave stretches approximately 25 feet in height, 200 feet in length, and varies between 20 to 30 feet in width. Sunlight filters in through its seven window-like openings, while several robust sandstone columns ensure the roof remains supported.

Its resemblance to a house – complete with a roof, supporting pillars, and windows – is unmistakable. Over the ages, the cave has provided shelter to various groups. Archaeological discoveries indicate that Native Americans sought refuge here, even building small rock ovens to prepare their meals. Troughs carved into the cave floor were designed to harvest water, offering inhabitants a secure source of hydration. Legends from the 1800s suggest that bandits and robbers once used the Rock House as their hideout, earning it the moniker “Robbers’ Roost.”

Before Hocking Hills State Park was officially recognized by the State of Ohio in 1924, Rock House had been drawing visitors for nearly 100 years. In 1835, F.F. Rempel, a businessman from Logan, Ohio, capitalized on its popularity by constructing a 16-room hotel just a stone’s throw away from the cave. Situated where the present-day picnic shelter stands, this hotel boasted a ballroom, stables, and even its own post office.

Whispering Cave

Whispering Cave is a vast recess, spanning 300 feet in width, carved into the Blackhand sandstone cliff. This cave is marked by a seasonal waterfall that cascades down 105 feet.

Hocking State Forest

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