Hill Yeah
There’s something about Hocking Hills State Park in the summer that feels timeless. Early July found our entire extended family – two grandparents, seven adults, and seven kids – heading down for a weekend getaway to this rugged stretch of southeast Ohio. It was exactly the kind of trip we needed: fresh air, unplugged family time, and the natural beauty that has made Hocking Hills one of the Midwest’s most iconic parks.
We based ourselves at a rustic cabin near Lake Logan, a spot that felt tailor-made for groups like ours. Mornings began with coffee on the porch from Oasis Coffee 2.0 while we took in the incredible view of the lake. Evenings ended in the hot tub with the sky painted in shades of gold and purple as the sun set over the landscape. Lake Logan became a natural hub for us during the trip. When we weren’t hiking, we were at the lake all day swimming, lounging on the beach, and watching the kids play until they were happily exhausted.
But the real highlight was exploring the trails that make Hocking Hills famous. We set out early to beat the crowds, and that decision paid off. The park is no secret, and summer weekends draw plenty of visitors, but the trails are clearly marked and easy to navigate, which makes exploring with a large family much less stressful.
Our first stop was Devil’s Bathtub, a swirling pool of water that lives up to its mysterious name. It’s the kind of spot that makes you stop and wonder how nature could shape something so striking. From there, we made our way to Whale in the Rock and Eagle Rock, both showcasing the unique sandstone formations that define the park. The kids loved spotting the “whale” in the rock’s curves, and Eagle Rock’s sweeping views gave us a chance to catch our breath and take in the scenery.
We saved the best-known stop for last: Old Man’s Cave. Walking through the shaded gorge, we were struck by the towering cliffs, lush green foliage, and waterfalls that seemed to appear around every bend. The temperature dropped as we descended into the valley, a welcome break from the summer heat. With bridges to cross and hidden corners to discover, it was the perfect way to wrap up our hiking day.
One of our favorite traditions quickly became rewarding the day’s hiking with a sweet treat. After miles on the trails, we headed straight to Old Man’s Cave General Store for ice cream. It was the perfect cooldown before returning to the cabin for pizza from Christy’s Pizza Logan – a simple, satisfying end to a full day.
Hocking Hills delivered in every way: easy-to-follow trails, plenty of kid-friendly spots, and enough variety to keep adults engaged. There were no major surprises or challenges on the trails, which was refreshing given the size of our group. Everyone from the youngest grandchild to the grandparents could enjoy the park together.
The park’s reputation for natural beauty is well-earned. Waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and thick forest canopy make it feel like a world away from the city. The busy trails reminded us that we weren’t the only ones drawn to this pocket of Ohio, but there’s room for everyone, especially if you arrive early in the day.
Looking back, the best moments weren’t necessarily the most dramatic. It was the simple joy of hiking as a group, kids laughing as they discovered a new rock formation, and sitting together with ice cream after a long day on the trails. Those are the memories that stick.
Would we go back? Absolutely. There’s so much more of the park we didn’t see in a single weekend, from Ash Cave to Rock House and beyond. Hocking Hills is the kind of place you can return to again and again, discovering something new every time.
Travel Tips for Your Own Hocking Hills Trip
Arrive early: Trails get busy quickly, especially in summer.
Pack for the heat: The valleys are cooler, but the ridges can be hot in July.
Reward yourself: Ice cream from Old Man’s Cave General Store is a tradition worth starting.
Lake Logan is worth a full day: Swim, relax, and take in the sunset if you’re staying nearby.
Plan for another trip: One weekend is enough to fall in love, but you’ll want more time to explore every corner of the park.
Hocking Hills is more than a collection of trails. It’s waterfalls that hush the noise of the world, sunsets that bring families together on a porch, and the kind of shared adventure that becomes a story you tell for years. If you’re looking for a Midwest escape that blends outdoor beauty with a sense of togetherness, you won’t find a better place.