Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills State Park is a public park in Hocking County, Ohio, centered on steep sandstone gorges, waterfalls, and forested ravines. It is known regionally for a compact network of trails and distinctive geological formations.

The park’s gorges and caves were formed by long-term erosion of Black Hand sandstone and related rock layers. The area later became protected and developed for public recreation and trail access by state and local authorities in the 20th century.

The park lies in southeastern Ohio near the town of Logan. It is in Hocking County and is the primary public recreation area serving nearby communities in the region.

• Best time to visit: Peak colors from late September through November provide the park's most popular photographic opportunities.
• Access point: Main trailheads and parking are clustered near the small town of Logan, which serves as the usual base for exploring the park.

What to See #

• Old Man's Cave: A narrow gorge with layered Black Hand sandstone and a series of connected trails that run through the park's main scenic corridor, featuring footbridges and stairways carved into the rock.
• Ash Cave: A broad recessed cave and amphitheater-like rock overhang reached by an accessible trail, noted for its seasonal waterfall and ice formations in winter.
• Rock House: A large sandstone shelter cave with tunnel-like passageways formed by erosion, often described as the park's most cave-like feature.
• Cedar Falls: A scenic waterfall and cascade set within a wooded ravine that is a common stop on the park's loop trails.
• Cantwell Cliffs: A cliff-and-ravine area with narrow ledges and scenic overlooks that is popular with hikers and photographers.