Hocking State Forest Visitors Guide ? Reserves, Trails, Facilities & More

Hocking State Forest

Ohio's Hocking State Forest not only offers year-round outdoor recreation, it also boasts one of the most spectacular geographic features in the Hocking Hills: Conkle's Hollow. The sandstone gorge at Conkle's Hollow is thought to be the deepest gorge in Ohio. It is located at Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve, one of three state nature preserves in the Hocking State Forest (the other two are Sheick Hollow and Little Rocky Hollow, both of which require access permits).

Hocking State Forest is also notable for its outdoor activities. Fully 99 acres of the 9,266-acre Hocking State Forest are designated for rock climbing and rappelling. Hocking State Forest also offers roughly 50 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. A horsemen's camp with primitive camping facilities is available. A section of Ohio's Buckeye Trail, which circles the entire state, crosses through Hocking State Forest. Fishing and hunting (including bow-hunting) are allowed at Hocking State Forest; however, hunting is prohibited within state nature preserves.

Visitors interested in nature study will note that Hocking State Forest supports an interesting variety of plant and animal life. Vegetation in Hocking State Forest includes plants typically found farther north, such as the partridgeberry found at Conkle's Hollow. Some of the trees within Hocking State Forest are four- to five-centuries old. Others are far younger. Pine trees now stand on the same land that was covered with corn, wheat and hay fields in the 19th century.

Hocking Hills State Park lies adjacent to Hocking State Forest. The park offers a variety of accommodations, including cottages and campsites, as well as hiking, swimming, picnicking and fishing.

The headquarters for Hocking State Forest is located near Laurelville, off of State Routes 374 and 664.

Hocking State Forest Admission Fees
Admission is free.

* Prices subject to change without notice

Hocking State Forest Hours
Open during daylight hours. Closes at dark due to hazards associated with numerous cliffs in the area. Visitors staying at the horsemen's camp are asked to observe quiet hours from 11 p.m. until 8 a.m.

Hocking State Forest Contact Information
19275 S.R. 374
Rockbridge, OH 43149
(740) 385-4402
forestry@dnr.state.oh.us
www.dnr.state.oh.us/forestry/Forests/stateforests/hocking.htm

Division of Forestry

District 4
360 E. State St.
Athens, OH 45701
(740) 589-9901
Toll-free: (877) 247-8733

Click here for more information on Hocking Hills Attractions!