Hocking State Forest

Welcome to Hocking State Forest located near Rockbridge, Ohio.

Forest History: Over 300 million years ago, the region's rivers did not flow into the ocean but into an inland sea that covered much of the land. Some of the park's sandstone formations date back to that time period. As the land rose up over millions of years streams cut through the landscape forming the present day park's cliffs and waterfalls. Hills to the north of this forest helped protect it from glacial retreat at the end of the last ice age.

In 1924, the State of Ohio began to purchase the land that is now Hocking State Forest. The State worked with the Civilian Conservation Corps to help restore the forest and worked to control erosion, regulate timber harvests, and reintroduce the beaver and wild turkey to the region. In 1949, Hocking Hills State Park was separated from Hocking State Forest when the Ohio Department of Natural Resources was established. In 1976, the year of the nation's bicentennial, three state nature preserves were formed inside the Hocking State Forest.

Flora and Fauna: Hocking State Forest helps protect the home of numerous plant and animals species. Some of the plants that grow inside the boundaries include pines, beeches, oaks, hemlocks, and maples. Some of the trees inside the forest are over 400 years old. Some of the wild animals who call this place home include raccoons, squirrels, deer foxes, and wild turkeys. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors Hocking State Forest boasts over 40 miles of multipurpose trails, 23 campsites, and so much more. Come on out and explore.