Nestled within south central and southeast Ohio, there's a state park so beautiful that it might just be paradise. In the Hocking Hills region of Hocking County, the Hocking Hills State Park is a place of wonder and intrigue.
The park has something for everyone, from waterfalls to caves to impressive geologic formations.
Hocking Hills State Park also boasts more than 25 miles of beautiful trails, all worth their own day trips. Follow these trails into the fairy-tale-like woods of southeast Ohio.
Camping is a favorite activity among the locals in this area, and it's easy to see why.
This park is absolutely breathtaking from end to end. Both bare-bones "primitive" camp sites are available for reservation as well as more modern sites with amenities such as electricity, sewer and water. For those who prefer more, the park also has cabins available.
The surreal beauty of this place is everywhere, from the fern-covered floor of the forest to the canopies of the shade-bearing trees.
There's so much more to do than simply camp or hike; Hocking Hills State Park also has an archery range for the brave of heart, as well as ample boating, fishing, and hunting opportunities.
While you're visiting, be sure to seek out the notoriously beautiful Whispering Cave trail, an easy half-mile hike to the second-largest cave in the region!
The cave is beyond incredible and a total must-see. Its most breathtaking feature is hard to decide, but the seasonal 105-foot-tall waterfall might just be our favorite.
The incredible landscapes all over the park are a sure-fire guarantee for both amateur and professional photographers as well. It seems that everywhere one goes here, there is something photogenic that catches the eye.
The rivers and streams are pristine, fed by crystalline waterfalls and surrounded by lush forestry. The Hocking Hills State Forest is a sprawling 9,815 acres (more than 15 miles!) in size, and its beauty is unsurpassed.
As always, it is important to remember to leave no trace as you explore these amazing miles of wilderness; many creatures call this place home, and they rely on explorers to be respectful of the land and pack out what they pack in.
Some critters one might spot within the Hocking Hills State Park include bobcats, white-tail deer, various species of owl and so much more.
The park is open year-round, and is truly a treat no matter what time of year one visits.
Whether it's the lush, green summers, or the stunning winter wonderland the park seems to become every winter, there will be something for everyone to fall in love with at this underrated park.
If you'd like to pay this amazing spot a visit, first plan your trip on the official website for Hocking Hills and surrounding forest here. There, you'll find trail information, maps, and in the fall they often post foliage-color alerts!
Have you been to this enchanting Ohio park? Tell us all about it in the comments!
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