Vacation Rentals in Hocking County

Hocking County is the kind of place where you and your family can get away from it all, and relax, and it boasts a wide range of accommodation options. Roomy cottage-style properties can be found across the county, with options near the Hocking Hills State Park, and to the north near Lake Logan. Sizes vary, but you can expect sturdy stone properties with large gardens and an attractive vintage look.

If you have more people to accommodate, Hocking County offers a range of places to consider. Many of them are stunning timber-framed constructions, with swimming pools, balconies and five or more bedrooms – more than sufficient to sleep a couple of families or groups of friends.

Hocking County can be found in south-eastern Ohio, a comfortable driving distance from major population centers like Cincinnati or Columbus. Its terrain is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and lakes, and focuses on the Hocking River, as it winds its way through the Allegheny Hills. The result is scenery that includes dramatic cliffs, and gorgeous views – things which make it a tourism hotspot.

The most popular part of the county for visitors is undoubtedly the Hocking Hills, which harbors plenty of retreats and spas, as well as innumerable vacation rentals. There aren't any large towns in the region, with the county seat Logan only having 7,000 residents or so. As a result, the atmosphere is laid-back and the pace of life is fairly slow.

There are no airports or Amtrak stations in Hocking County. If you are flying, the best option is to arrive at Columbus, which is around 90 minutes' drive to the north. Logan is on Route 33, which runs across Ohio, and also provides access from the east, so driving won't be hard.

Above all else, people come to Hocking County to experience the beauty of the hills and forests. This is prime hiking country, with miles of trails, particularly in the Hocking Hills State Park, where you'll find attractions like Ash Cave and Conkle's Hollow.

If you want to get out in the open and bag some ducks, or you just want to fish a week away, you can do so in Hocking County. There are belly boat fishing opportunities at Rose Lake, while Lake Logan is popular with duck hunters as well.

Families won't struggle to find things to do during their stay in Hocking County. Attractions like the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, the history shows on Sugarloaf Mountain and activities like ATV rentals or laser tag should keen everyone busy while they're away.

The stone bluffs and dramatic gorge at Conkle's Hollow is one of the iconic sights of the Hocking Hills, and it's not a difficult hike to reach them. One of Ohio's deepest canyons, the gorge is a geological marvel, and makes for fantastic photo opportunities.

Ash Cave is another of the Hocking Hills' natural marvels. Surrounded by picturesque gorges covered in wildflowers, the cave itself is some 700 feet long, while the cliffs around the opening dwarf all who visit.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Hocking County, including this ATV park just outside Logan. Along with nifty ATVs, the complex includes paintball arenas, ropes, and zip-lins, so it's an outdoor fans' dream.

There's no better way to see Hocking County than by hopping aboard this quaint steam railway. Set up in 1972, it runs from Nelsonville and passes up the Hocking River valley – offering some superb views along the way.

On the slopes of Sugarloaf Mountain, tourists can watch a thrilling historical pageant which recounts the life of Tecumseh, who defended his people against invasion in the Hocking area in the 18th century.

Before heading to the Hocking Hills, it pays to prepare thoroughly. So make sure you have sturdy walking boots, a good waterproof jacket, and the maps you need to take advantage of the dense network of trails throughout the State Park. And pick the right time to go. Spring is mild and usually bright, if a little wet, and summers are warm and much drier. The fall sees some amazing colors, so is another popular time to visit.

There's plenty going on in Hocking County almost all-year round. However, Logan's Washboard Music Festival is a definite highlight, bringing a feast of traditional music performers to the county seat (with an emphasis on washboard players). There are also some lovely events in smaller towns like Rockbridge, whose Lily Festival in mid-July mixes flowers, music, and craft markets. And there are fall events too, including September's Hocking Hills Fall Fest – Logan's major arts and crafts jamboree.