Hocking State Forest

Hocking State Forest is a protected woodland area in southeastern Ohio covering roughly 9,700 acres of natural land. The terrain features sandstone cliffs, rock shelters, dense forest cover, and diverse wildlife throughout the property.

This state forest was established in 1949 to protect and preserve the natural landscape for future generations. The rock formations and terrain visible today originated over 300 million years ago when ancient rivers flowed through what was then a vast inland sea covering parts of present-day Ohio.

The forest is a place where visitors engage in hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing as part of their outdoor recreation. These activities shape how people experience and interact with the landscape today.

The forest maintains over 95 kilometers of hiking and riding trails spread throughout the area for different experience levels. Designated camping areas are available for visitors who wish to stay overnight within the forest.

Two special nature preserves called Sheick Hollow and Little Rocky Hollow require permits before visitors can enter them. These access restrictions exist to protect the delicate ecosystems found in those locations.

Location: Hocking County

GPS coordinates: 39.43330,-82.54170

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:51