For a Family Trip that Merges Adventure, Relaxation and the Great Outdoors, Try Hocking Hills, Ohio

The Hocking Hills region feels like a world apart. The towering, thick trees give way to gorges, caverns and waterfalls just begging you and your kids to have a peek.

For a weekend family escape that’s a little over a four-hour drive from metro Detroit, set your sights on Hocking Hills State Park, about an hour southeast of Columbus, Ohio. 

Plan a few days away: There are a few chain hotels nearby, though most families rent a cabin or camp. Our City Guide also details some must-see spots, fun pit stops and where to eat. 

Plus, check out three other can’t-miss itineraries for Hocking Hills:

• The best caves and natural wonders to explore in Hocking Hills
• High-action adventures for families, from ziplines to rock climbs
• An astronomy park, gem mining and more unexpected Hocking Hills fun

Photo credit: Hocking Hills Canopy Tours / zipohio.com

Why visit Hocking Hills?

Families will find plenty of kid-friendly hikes, like Ash Cave and Old Man’s Cave, where children can marvel at towering cliffs and hidden grottoes.

Then, cool your feet with some ziplining, horseback riding, train rides and canoeing — all exciting ways to experience the region’s lush landscapes.

Popular spots like the Hocking Hills Canopy Tours and the John Glenn Astronomy Park provide both high-adrenaline fun and serene stargazing.

With its mix of adventure and relaxation, Hocking Hills is an ideal getaway that brings families closer to nature.

Photo credit: Rock House / Ohio Department of Natural Resources 

Must-see hiking trails

Part of the fun is remembering how to use a map — since GPS service can be unreliable! Luckily, Hocking Hills’ hiking areas are well marked. Here are a few we suggest:

• Old Man’s Cave (1 mile): You’ll travel through two rock tunnels to get to this cave.
• Ash Cave (1/4 mile): In the largest recess cave east of the Mississippi, you’ll feel dwarfed by the soaring rock ceiling.
• Cedar Falls (1/2 mile): Water races down the large rock face of this picture-perfect place.
• Rock House (1 mile): The name says it all: rocks form a labyrinth that seems like some sort of prehistoric house.
• Conkle’s Hollow (1 mile): Cliffs rise 200 feet above you as you make your way on the trail that ends in a hollow of rocks that has a waterfall trickling overhead.

Photo credit: Toledo Zoo

Fun pit stops along the way

Leaving from metro Detroit, head south on I-75, then take US-23 South through Findlay and Delaware to Columbus. From Columbus, take I-270 East to US-33 East, then exit onto OH-664 South toward Logan and Hocking Hills. Break up your four-hour drive at:

• Toledo Zoo & Aquarium: This zoo has a large aquarium, perfect for families. Glide through the Aerial Adventure Course, interact with a stingray and explore the Aquarium Adventure Trail.
• Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens: The conservatory in Columbus offers interactive exhibits, a butterfly house and seasonal displays, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers, families and photography enthusiasts.
• Center of Science and Industry (COSI): Also in Columbus, his hands-on science museum is packed with engaging displays on space, energy, technology and the natural world.

Photo credit: Hocking Hills State Park Lodge / Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Places to stay

These accommodations offer a range of experiences, from unique natural settings to modern amenities, ensuring a memorable stay in the Hocking Hills region. 

• The Cave at Dunlap Hollow: Have a space all to yourself in this 1,500-square-foot retreat nestled in a natural recess cave. It features two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a hot tub, a fireplace and exclusive access to private hiking trails.
• Hocking Hills State Park Lodge: This premier resort lodge features 81 guestrooms, an on-site restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools and direct access to scenic hiking trails in Hocking Hills State Park. 
• Cherry Ridge Retreat: These elegant and secluded luxury cabins have private saunas, outdoor hot tubs, plunge pools, fireplaces and extensive private hiking trails. 

Photo credit: High Rock Adventures

Where to eat

As the region’s biggest city, Logan offers a variety of family-friendly dining options that cater to all tastes. 

• M & M Family Diner: Serving home-cooked meals in a warm and inviting setting, this place offers a breakfast and lunch menu filled with classic comfort food.
• The Olde Dutch Restaurant & Banquet Haus: With an all-you-can-eat buffet and souvenir-filled gift shop, this restaurant provides a fun atmosphere.
• Pizza Crossing: A local favorite, this pizza spot offers a laid-back, family-friendly setting, complete with a kids menu and beer and wine for the grown-ups. 

Want more Hocking Hills? Learn what caves and wonders await you, discover family fun adventure spots and find unexpected things to do with kids. 

Brandi Calhoun contributed to this story.

This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.

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