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Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve wilderness guide
State Nature Preserve · OH

Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve

Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve offers breathtaking cliffs and diverse landscapes perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape.

State Nature Preserve872+ Trails

Designation

State Nature Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

87

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve

Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve offers breathtaking cliffs and diverse landscapes perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve is situated in the heart of the Hocking Hills region in Ohio. The preserve is renowned for its rugged cliffs that rise up to 200 feet and one of the deepest recessed gorges in Ohio. This unique topography provides a haven for diverse flora and fauna, making it an essential spot for ecology enthusiasts and casual hikers alike. With lush greenery, hemlocks, and striking rock formations, the area offers a myriad of photo opportunities and scenic vistas. Historically, this area has been preserved to maintain its natural beauty and delicateness. Several trails provide varying levels of challenge for hikers, offering both leisurely and more strenuous paths. Visitors are drawn to features like the cliffs of Blackhand Sandstone and the remarkable gorge, which stays cool and damp, fostering rare plant species. The principal appeal of Conkles Hollow lies in its ability to transport visitors into a serene natural environment, away from the bustling activity of everyday life.

Field Guide · State Nature Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Nature's Retreat at Conkles Hollow★ 7.8⌖ 1 miHiking
Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve

Nature's Retreat at Conkles Hollow

Explore Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve in Rockbridge, Ohio. Enjoy a scenic 1-mile gorge hike with easy terrain, sandstone cliffs, and a serene waterfall. Ideal for spring and fall visits with family-friendly exploration and beautiful photography opportunities.

Hocking Hills State Park★ 8.3⌖ 3 miHiking
Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills State Park

Explore the stunning waterfalls and caves of Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Ohio. Popular for hiking, photography, and wildlife watching, this moderate park is best visited in spring and fall.

Waterfall Wonder at Upper Falls★ 8.2⌖ 3 miHiking
Upper Falls

Waterfall Wonder at Upper Falls

Explore the captivating Upper Falls in Hocking Hills State Park, near Logan, Ohio. Ideal for hiking and photography, the area features easy trails, stunning rock formations, and vibrant foliage. Best visited in spring and fall, it offers breathtaking views and ample opportunities for nature observation.

The Devil's Bathtub★ 7.7⌖ 3 miHiking
The Devil's Bathtub

The Devil's Bathtub

Explore the captivating Devil's Bathtub in Hocking Hills State Park near Logan, Ohio. This moderate hike through lush forests features swirling waters over smooth rocks, perfect for photography. Spring offers the best conditions with serene surroundings, ideal for an early morning visit.

Discover Old Man's Cave★ 8.5⌖ 3 miHiking
Old Man's Cave

Discover Old Man's Cave

Explore the iconic Old Man's Cave in Logan, OH, within Hocking Hills State Park. This moderate 1-mile loop is popular for hiking and photography, showcasing stunning waterfalls and rock formations. Best visited in spring and fall, it's family-friendly with some areas accessible.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Conkles Hollow Rim Trail✦ Endemic plant species in the cool gorge✦ The towering sandstone cliffs✦ Spectacular views from the cliff tops
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Hocking Hills State Park Campground

Located nearby offering convenient access to multiple trails and attractions in the Hocking Hills region.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

South Bloomingville
⌖ 3.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Bloomingville, Ohio

A tranquil gateway to rugged outdoor escapades in Ohio’s unspoiled Appalachian foothills, where forests, streams, and limestone cliffs create a playground for nature lovers.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Rockbridge
⌖ 8.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rockbridge, Ohio

A serene and natural haven in Ohio’s Hocking Hills, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Logan
⌖ 10.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Logan, Ohio

A charming small town with access to Hocking Hills' stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.

Sugar Grove
⌖ 10.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sugar Grove, Ohio

A quaint Midwestern town near scenic landscapes and offering ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and FallExplore Town
New Plymouth
⌖ 11.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

New Plymouth, Ohio

A quiet rural village offering a gateway to quaint farming landscapes, gentle trails, and outdoor recreation along Ohio’s western edge.

Spring through FallExplore Town
McArthur
⌖ 16.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

McArthur, Ohio

A quaint town offering close proximity to lush forests and rolling hills, perfect for nature enthusiasts eager to explore the rugged wilderness.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.