The Hocking Hills State Park Visitor Center is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with hours subject to seasonal changes.
There is no entrance fee to visit Hocking Hills State Park; admission and parking are free.
Drive via US-33 and OH-664 from Columbus; from Cincinnati take I-71, US-35, and OH-682 to OH-664.
Parking lots are near popular areas like Old Man’s Cave and other trailheads. No overnight parking; cars must leave by dark. No parking fees. Spaces accommodate cars, smaller RVs, and motorcycles. Larger RVs use designated campsites.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Located in Southeastern Ohio’s Appalachian foothills, Hocking Hills offers dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, caves, and gorges. Family-friendly trails and outdoor recreation make this a popular destination for nature lovers and weekend adventurers alike.
- Area (mi²)
- 3.7
- Annual visitors
- 3 000 000
- Established year
- 1924
Top 3 Facts about Hocking Hills State Park
The region’s sandstone formations exhibit honeycomb weathering, where water infiltration creates small cavities, expanding over time to form intricate patterns. This process is evident in formations like Ash Cave, where the interplay of erosion and mineral dissolution has sculpted the rock over millions of years, resulting in cavities that can be several centimeters deep.
Cedar Falls and Ash Cave Falls are especially striking after rain or spring thaw.
Evidence of ancient Native American habitation includes Adena and Hopewell earthworks.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check trail conditions and closures before visiting—plan weekday trips for fewer crowds.
Pack Appropriately
Wear proper footwear for rugged trails; bring water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and maps.
Respect Wildlife
Stay on trails to protect ecosystems and avoid wildlife encounters; carry out all waste.
Stay Informed
Steep, wet trails require caution—watch for hazards near cliffs and waterfalls, especially with kids.
Seasons
Waterfalls and wildflowers flourish; mild weather and fewer crowds offer ideal hiking conditions.
Lush greenery, full waterfall flows, long days, and popular outdoor events—expect crowds.
Peak foliage in mid-October; trails offer brilliant colors, comfortable temps, and scenic views.
Quiet, snowy solitude for frozen waterfall views, photography, and winter hikes—dress for cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Hocking Hills State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You can stay in Logan for a more secluded, woodsy experience close to the park, or in Lancaster, which is about 15 minutes away and offers more hotel options, ziplining, breweries, and restaurants. Logan is technically part of the Hocking Hills area, while Lancaster provides a mix of local life and amenities. Both towns are convenient for visiting the area.
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The best hiking trail for kids is the paved Gorge Trail at Ash Cave, which is stroller and wheelchair accessible, only 0.3 miles long each way, and leads to a waterfall. This trail is suitable for toddlers and young children due to its short distance and flat surface.
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Dogs must be on a leash that is 6 feet or less at all times. They cannot be off-leash, even in remote areas. This rule applies to all trails where dogs are allowed.
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Yes, parking is free. It does not matter if you are driving a car, camper, trailer, or any other vehicle, as there are no parking fees. Vehicles must be out of the parking lots by dark.
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To make the most of your day, start with the Upper Falls Trail and then follow the Gorge Trail through Old Man’s Cave, which includes hiking along the river and exploring the cave. Next, visit Ash Cave by taking the Ash Gorge Trail for a close-up view and exit via the Ash Rim Trail. If time allows, extend your hike to include Broken Rock Falls by following the Grandma Gatewood Trail and Broken Rock Trail.