Without a doubt, Hocking Hills is the most beautiful region in Ohio. Located in Hocking County, in the southeastern part of the state, its caves, cliffs and waterfalls can easily be reached thanks to the smooth paths and stone steps carved out by nature enthusiasts early in the 1900's.
There are six distinct areas. Ash Cave, the largest recess cave in Ohio, spanning more than 700 feet with a 90 foot waterfall, is even wheelchair accessible. It's located off St. Rt. 56. One of my favorite spots is Rock House, the only true cave in the park. Its long spacious gallery with massive windows, high on a sandstone cliff, offers owl's eye views of the surrounding forest. In years past, it provided shelter for bandits and Native Americans. The Old Man's Cave area, off St. Rt. 664, was named after a Civil War-era hermit. It features waterfalls, pools, deep gorges and massive rock formations. Cantwell Cliffs is a gigantic overhanging horseshoe-shaped cliff. It's off St. Rt. 374 near the village of Rockbridge. In the Cedar Falls area you can hike through a succession of beautiful valleys, view a steep-walled gorge and a 50 foot waterfall. The entrance is on St. Rt. 374 between St. Rts. 664 and 56. At Lake Logan State Park just south of U.S. 33 on St. Rt. 664, down Lake Logan Road, you'll find one of the best fishing lakes in Ohio.
It may sound as though these areas are scattered far and wide, but they're not that far apart. It's easy to visit several in one day. You can rent cabins there if you'd like to spend the night, and there are camp sites, as well. I like walking through the area in early morning before anyone else arrives.
Though Hocking Hills is gorgeous any time of year, I'd recommend visiting the area in spring or early summer for the best water features.
Here are a few of my favorite photos of the area: