Each area of Hocking Hills has its own special charm, and that extends to its many scenic parks and forests. If you are looking for a place to hike while exploring southeast Ohio’s natural rock formations, check out the many miles of trails in Hocking Hills State Park. Want a rock climbing and rappelling adventure? Then you definitely need to visit Hocking State Forest. But if your idea of a perfect day is getting away from the bustle and casting your fishing rod into a clear blue lake, then Lake Logan State Park is the destination for you.
The Lake
Lake Logan, formerly Hocking Lake, is located in Hocking Valley, which was formed by the meltwaters of a glacier that moved north of the area tens of thousands of years ago. The surrounding forest boasts several species of oak and hickory trees as well as wildflowers, ferns, and other ground cover plants. The area is a popular destination for migrating waterfowl and is also home to deer, wild turkeys, hawks, barn owls, and many other types of animals.
The Park
Lake Logan State Park is a 318-acre day-use park that features one of the state’s top fishing lakes. Sportsmen come from around the state and country to fish for bass, crappie, northern pike, bluegill, catfish, and saugeye in Lake Logan’s clear waters. Boats are permitted up to 10 hp, and you can tie-up at the four picnic areas located on the lake’s northwest and south shores. When the weather gets cold enough, serious sportsman can ice fish on the lake, and during hunting season, hunters will find the forest abundant with white-tailed deer, fox, turkey, grouse, and more. A valid license is required. Click here for more information about hunting and fishing in Ohio’s state parks.
If you decide to take the family, kids can enjoy a picnic, swim off of the 527-foot public beach located on the north shore of Lake Logan, or look for wildlife on one of the park’s two easy hiking trails. If it is cold enough for you to be ice fishing, then the kids can easily entertain themselves sledding or ice skating.
Nearby Attractions
Some days the fish just aren’t biting, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore the Hocking Hills region’s natural wonders. Head over to Hocking Hills State Park to explore the area’s famed natural rock formations: Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Conkle’s Hollow, Old Man’s Cave, and Rock House. Or visit the city of Logan, the county seat of Hocking County and home to the popular Logan Antique Mall and the strange and wonderful Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum, located in the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center.
Make It a Weekend
Once you get out into the scenic Hocking Hills wilderness, you will want to put off returning to normal life as long as possible. So why not make it a weekend? Lone sportsman will enjoy the quiet tranquility of one of our small A-frame cabins in Hocking Hills, while those traveling with families can find great deals on cabins that sleep up to eight. We have some special promotions going on right now, so take advantage of this opportunity to indulge your wild side.
