Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills is Ohio's open secret — a pocket of genuine wilderness in the southeastern part of the state that most non-Ohioans have never heard of. The sandstone recess caves, 90-foot waterfalls, and old-growth hemlock hollows look like they belong in the Pacific Northwest, not central Ohio. Old Man's Cave is the most famous feature but Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and Conkle's Hollow are equally spectacular and less crowded. The region is also developing a serious craft beverage scene — wineries and craft spirits producers have moved in alongside the cabin rental economy. This is not a polished destination. It's a place where the geology does the work and human infrastructure mostly stays out of the way.