Hocking Hills Winter Camping offers a unique and peaceful experience amidst the snow-covered landscapes of Ohio. From cozy cabins to rugged hike-in campsites, the Hocking Hills region provides a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a winter adventure.
Winter Camping Options in Hocking Hills State Park
Off-Peak Season
During the off-peak season, which runs from November 1 to April 1, Hocking Hills State Park operates with limited amenities. Shower House 1 and the dump station remain open, with water available only at Shower House 1. The camp store is also open, and sites 1 through 93, G 1 through 4, and three Sherman cabins are available for winter camping.
Campsites
The park offers a range of campsites, including full hook-up, electric sites with 20-, 30-, or 50-amp service, as well as non-electric sites. Each site has a paved pad, fire ring, and picnic table, and pets are permitted on all campsites.
Sherman Cabins
For a more comfortable winter camping experience, the park’s Sherman Cabins offer temperature-controlled accommodations with limited amenities. These cabins have air conditioning, heat, a small refrigerator, and a microwave oven, but no running water or restroom facilities. Campers using the Sherman Cabins will need to use the facilities in the campground.
Hike-in Camping
For a more rugged and remote experience, the park’s Hike-In Campground offers primitive campsites. Campers must hike their gear up to ½ mile to reach their campsite. Water spigots are available in the parking area, and pit latrines are located throughout the campground. Pets are permitted on all sites.
Group Camping
Hocking Hills State Park also offers tent-only group camping, with pit latrines provided. Reservations for group camping can be made up to six months in advance.
Nearby Camping Options
Campbell Cove
Located near Hocking Hills, Campbell Cove is a family-oriented campground with over 140 campsites, offering full hook-up RV sites and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere.
Top O’ The Caves
As the largest campground in the area, Top O’ The Caves features a modern shower house, swimming pool, playground, game arcade, and camp store, making it a popular choice for winter campers.
Adventure Pro Outdoors
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more primitive camping experience, Adventure Pro Outdoors offers campsites along the scenic Hocking River.
High Rock Hideaways
Situated near popular Hocking Hills attractions, High Rock Hideaways offers both cabins and primitive camping sites for winter adventurers.
Regulations and Restrictions
- Winter Camping Dates: The off-peak season runs from November 1 to April 1, with limited amenities available.
- Amenities: Shower House 1 and the dump station are open during the off-peak season, with water available only at Shower House 1. The camp store is also open.
- Site Availability: Sites 1 through 93, G 1 through 4, and three Sherman cabins are available during the off-peak season.
Tips and Recommendations
- Reservations: Make reservations up to six months in advance for campsites and cabins.
- Gear: Pack warm clothing and gear suitable for winter camping.
- Activities: Enjoy winter hiking, sledding, cross-country skiing, and cozying up in a warm cabin.
- Food: Check out local restaurants and plan meals in advance, as some may require reservations.
Hocking Hills Winter Camping offers a unique and serene experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the comfort of a cabin or the challenge of a hike-in campsite, the Hocking Hills region has something to suit every winter camping preference.
References
- Explore Hocking Hills. (2023). The Ultimate Winter Guide to the Hocking Hills. Retrieved from https://www.explorehockinghills.com/blog/winter/the-ultimate-winter-guide-to-the-hocking-hills/
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources. (n.d.). Hocking Hills State Park Campground. Retrieved from https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-hills-state-park-campground
- Hocking Hills. (n.d.). Camping and Campgrounds Hocking Hills State Parks. Retrieved from https://www.hockinghills.com/camping.html
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources. (2021). Winter Camping at Ohio State Parks. Retrieved from https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-odnr/division-parks-watercraft/stay-overnight/winter-camping-osp
- Reddit. (2023). Hocking Hills State Park Campground. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/Ohio/comments/18txqgz/hocking_hills_state_park_campground/.