HOCKING STATE FOREST
Hocking State Forest is managed under the multiple-use concept with special empahsis on maintaining or creating a forest cover that will enhance woodland recreation. The area is also managed for timber and wildlife habitat, forestry research and demonstrations of good forest management, natural beauty, tree seed for forest nurseries and protection of soils and watershed.
Timber products obtained from harvest, stand improvement and thinning operations include saw logs, veneer logs, pulpwood, firewood, fence and guard posts and poles. Proceeds from state timber sales are split among the state of Ohio and county and township governments where the timber originated.
During the spring and fall fire season months --March, April, May, October and November-- the main objective of the division is to prevent, detect and suppress wildfires that occur on state and private land within Hocking County and parts of Vinton and Fairfield counties.
The many gas wells and transmission lines that you see are a result of the development of a natural gas storage field underlying the forest area.
Ninety-nine acres of forest land have been set aside for rock climbing and rappelling. The area is located on Big Pine Road, one mile east of Conkle's Hollow. A parking area is within easy walking distance of the rock and cliff face. There you will find excellent terrain for this growing sport. Be sure to use quality equipment and climb with experienced people.
One of the special attractions of Hocking State Forest is the natural vegetation. Plant species commonly found farther north mix with typically southern species to provide an unusual variety of native plant life and associated wildlife.
Hocking State Forest is located in the state of Ohio and covers an area of approximately 9,023 acres. It is situated in Hocking County, in the southeastern part of the state. The history of Hocking State Forest dates back to the early 20th century when the area was heavily logged.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Hocking Valley region was known for its vast amounts of timber, particularly hardwoods such as oak, hickory, and black walnut. Logging companies were attracted to the area due to the abundance of valuable timber. However, the unregulated logging practices led to widespread deforestation and environmental degradation.
Recognizing the need for conservation, Ohio established the Division of Forestry in 1919, with the aim of managing and preserving the state's forests. In 1937, the state purchased the land that would become Hocking State Forest as part of its ongoing efforts to protect and restore forests in Ohio.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal program created during the Great Depression, played a significant role in the development of Hocking State Forest. CCC workers were employed to carry out reforestation, erosion control, and infrastructure projects within the forest. They built roads, trails, picnic areas, and a lookout tower. Their work helped to restore the forest and make it more accessible to the public.
Hocking State Forest has become a popular destination for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The forest offers various trails that showcase the region's diverse flora and fauna, including the popular Grandma Gatewood Trail named after Emma Gatewood, who was the first woman to hike the entire Appalachian Trail solo.
Hocking State Forest continues to be managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and remains an important natural and recreational resource for both the local community and visitors to the area.
GeneralLand, acres9,267
Day-UseHiking Trail, miles9
Rappelling/Rock Climbingyes
Bridle Trails, miles40
CampingHorsemen Campsitesyes
1. Hocking Hills State Park Campground: This campground offers both electric and non-electric sites, as well as cabins for rent. Amenities include restrooms with showers, a camp store, playgrounds and hiking trails.
2. Old Man's Cave Chalets: Offers luxury cabin rentals within the forest area that come equipped with hot tubs, fireplaces and fully-equipped kitchens.
3. Top O' The Caves Campground: A family-oriented camping resort offering full hook-up RV sites along with tent campsites located in wooded areas of the park.
4. Lake Hope State Park Cabins & Camping Sites: Located on the eastern edge of Hocking Forest is this beautiful state park which provides options to stay at their furnished cabins or set up tents/RVs at designated spots around Lake Hope.
5. Hickory Grove Cabins: These are private log cabins nestled deep into woods providing an intimate experience amidst nature's beauty.
6. Logan/Hocking Hills KOA Holiday: It has everything from primitive tenting to deluxe patio pull-thru sites available year-round.
7. Buckeye Trail Association Primitive Tent Site: For those seeking solitude can opt for these remote locations accessible only by footpaths.
8. Canopy Ridge Cabins: They offer luxurious yet rustic accommodation surrounded by scenic landscapes.
9. Wildcat Hollow Backpacking Trailhead Dispersed Camping Area: Ideal spot if you're looking forward to backpack through Ohio's wilderness.
Cottages and Cabins
Trickle Creek offers luxury cabins in Hocking Hills. The cabins are situated on nearly 236 acres of secluded cabin rentals in the deep wooded ravines in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Hocking County, Ohio.
9.1 miles from park*
Cottages and Cabins
Hidden Cave Cabin is an authentic log cabin with 2 bedrooms in a private wooded setting. It is located on one of the most scenic drives in Hocking Hills and just 3.6 miles to Rock House and less than 10 miles to Conkle's Hollow and Old Man's Cave.
4.6 miles from park*
Conference Center
Hello I am the marketing coordinator for the Hocking Hills Lodge Conference Center. There is incorrect information on your website about our lodge, how would we go about changing that or providing
10.2 miles from park*
Cottages and Cabins
A lakeside retreat in the beautiful Hocking Hills on scenic Lake Logan. Full kitchen, Hot Tub, Satellite HD TV, sitting room, breakfast nook, and electric AC/Heat.
8.1 miles from park*