Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a perfect blend of hiking trails, stunning natural landscapes, and serene camping experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a first-time camper, this comprehensive guide will help you plan your Hocking Hills hike and camping adventure.
Best Hiking Trails in Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park boasts an impressive array of hiking trails, each offering its unique charm and breathtaking scenery. Here are some of the must-visit trails:
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Ash Cave Trail: A 2-mile trail that connects to the Grandma Gatewood Trail, which spans six miles and connects three park areas. This trail showcases the impressive Ash Cave, a massive recess cave with a 700-foot-wide, 100-foot-deep horseshoe-shaped rim.
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Old Man’s Cave Trail: A 3/4-mile trail that includes the popular Upper Falls, a stunning 25-foot waterfall cascading over a rock ledge. This trail also features the iconic Old Man’s Cave, a large recess cave with a rich history.
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Rock House Trail: A 1-mile trail that features a unique rock formation, the Rock House, a large, recessed cave with a 25-foot-high ceiling and several window-like openings.
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Conkle’s Hollow Trail: A 1-mile trail that takes you through a scenic gorge, showcasing towering sandstone cliffs and a lush, verdant landscape.
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Cedar Falls Trail: A 1-mile trail that leads to the breathtaking Cedar Falls, a 50-foot waterfall that is one of the most photographed attractions in the park.
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Cantwell Cliffs Trail: A 1-mile trail with steep cliffs and scenic views, offering a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience.
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Whispering Cave Trail: A 1-mile trail that features the Whispering Cave, a large cave with unique acoustics that create a whispering effect.
Are Pets Allowed on the Hiking Trails in Hocking Hills?
Yes, pets are welcome on all campsites and hiking trails in Hocking Hills State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet to ensure the safety of both the pet and other visitors.
Amenities Available at the Hocking Hills State Park Campground
The Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers a variety of amenities to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable:
| Amenity | Description |
|---|---|
| Campground Store | Open year-round, offering basic supplies and souvenirs. |
| Heated Showers | Available in the main campground. |
| Flush Toilets | Available in the main campground. |
| Laundry Facility | Available in the main campground. |
| Dump Station | Available in the main campground. |
| Swimming Pool | Open for registered campers. |
| Playgrounds | Available for children. |
| Volleyball Court | Available for recreational use. |
| Horseshoe Pit | Available for recreational use. |
Camping Options
Hocking Hills State Park offers a variety of camping options to suit your needs:
- Full Hook-Up Sites: 156 electric sites with 20, 30, or 50 amp electric service.
- Non-Electric Sites: 13 sites available without electric hookups.
- Sherman Cabins: Three cabins available, one of which is ADA accessible.
- Hike-In Campground: Primitive campsites accessible by a ½-mile hike.
- Group Camping: Tent-only group camps available by reservation.
Reservations and Contact Information
- Reservations: Can be made up to six months in advance online or by calling (866) 644-6727.
- Campground Store: (740) 385-6842.
- Park Office: (740) 385-6842.
Additional Tips
- Water Safety: Be aware that local water sources may be contaminated due to mining activities, so it is recommended to bring your own water or use potable water sources at campsites.
- Trail Difficulty: Trails in Hocking Hills can be moderately steep, so trekking poles may be helpful for those new to backpacking.
Hocking Hills State Park offers a unique and unforgettable outdoor experience, with a diverse range of hiking trails, camping options, and amenities to cater to the needs of every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re planning a day hike or a multi-day camping adventure, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your Hocking Hills experience.
References
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Ohio/comments/1cbxzn8/hocking_hills_backpacking/
- https://www.hockinghills.com/camping.html
- https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-hills-state-park-campground
- https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/ohiodnr.gov/documents/parks/parkmaps/hockinghillsprimitivefamily.pdf
- https://thehockinghills.org/camping.htm