Vacationing in Hocking Hills, Ohio

Hocking Hills is a pleasant, heavily wooded area located about an hour southeast of Ohio's capital city, Columbus. While most of Ohio is comprised of flat plains, the Hocking Hills area has many interesting land formations. Of course there are hills, as the name indicates, but there are also caves, lakes, and forests.

There are numerous campgrounds and cabins available for rent in this area. Just driving along the highway and major roadways will give you an idea of just how much the tourist and camping industry thrives in this community. To compare prices, facilities, and locations, check out http://www.hockinghills.com/stayat.htm .

Though my personal favorite hiking spot is Old Man's Cave, since several of the parks are interconnected you can actually hike from one to another. You can choose from a handicap accessible trail at Ash Cave, to the twisting, hilly paths at Cedar Falls and Old Man's Cave. If you feel like a challenging hike, you can hike Ohio's Buckeye Trail, which starts at Old Man's Cave then goes on to Cedar Falls, then to Ash Cave for about a 12 mile hike round trip.

The parks feature beautiful waterfalls, wooden bridges, stone and wooden steps, thick forest, and gorgeous caverns. At Old Man's Cave there is a naturally formed whirl pool called the Devils' Bathtub. Interesting structures and pathways like these are found throughout the park areas.

The recreational activities in the area are much more diverse than it might sound. Other than hiking and camping, you can also enjoy: rock climbing, repelling, swimming, hunting, fishing, golfing, canoeing, shopping, antiquing, horseback riding, and more.

Most of the lodges and cabins offer basic amenities, such as AC, stove, mini fridge, etc. For more you can get an indoor or secluded outdoor hot tub. Most facilities also offer specialty romance, girl's/guy's night out, and honeymoon type packages where they will provide you with extras like wine, dinner, massage, and other treats.

Considering all the options in the Hocking Hills area, there should be something for everyone in your vacation group. There are facilities to accommodate individuals with handicaps, pets, and children in the area. Budgeting is flexible depending on what activities you want to do; also, remember to shop around for rates since there are so many businesses in the area.