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Tar Hollow State Park wilderness guide
State Park · OH

Tar Hollow State Park

Tar Hollow State Park is a serene natural area in Ohio, offering visitors scenic hiking, camping opportunities, and vibrant fall foliage.

State Park6044+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

604

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Tar Hollow State Park

Tar Hollow State Park is a serene natural area in Ohio, offering visitors scenic hiking, camping opportunities, and vibrant fall foliage.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Tar Hollow State Park, spanning over 600 acres in southeastern Ohio, offers a natural retreat with its rolling hills, dense woodlands, and clear streams. The park lies within the larger Tar Hollow State Forest, creating a vast area of scenic beauty. The geography of the park features rugged landscapes, providing a range of hiking trails for various skill levels. Ecologically, the park is home to diverse plant species and wildlife, with the hardwood forests showcasing brilliant colors during the fall. Historically, the area was used for harvesting tar, which contributed to its name. Today, the park is cherished for its outdoor recreational offerings, ranging from hiking and camping to fishing and boating on Pine Lake, a central feature of the park. Visitors are drawn to its peaceful environment and the opportunity to connect with nature, while families enjoy the well-equipped campgrounds and picnic areas. Tar Hollow continues to attract nature lovers with its tranquil beauty and recreational diversity, making it a destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Tar Hollow State Park

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

Nature's Retreat at Conkles Hollow★ 7.8⌖ 10 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.

Discover the Wonder of Ash Cave★ 8.5⌖ 11 miHiking
Ash Cave

Discover the Wonder of Ash Cave

Explore Ash Cave, a landmark in Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio. This easy 0.5-mile trail is accessible to all, featuring a stunning waterfall and historical displays. Ideal for a family outing or a peaceful nature walk.

Hocking Hills State Park★ 8.3⌖ 11 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.

Discover Old Man's Cave★ 8.5⌖ 11 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.

The Devil's Bathtub★ 7.7⌖ 11 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.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Pine Lake, perfect for boating and fishing activities✦ The rich hardwood forests, home to a variety of wildlife✦ The historic fire tower offering expansive views of the forest✦ The challenging North Ridge Trail, known for its scenic overlooks
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Tar Hollow State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

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

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee is 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 Tar Hollow State Park

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

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Tar Hollow State Park

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

South Bloomingville
⌖ 8.04 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
Chillicothe
⌖ 13.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chillicothe, Ohio

A historic river town offering scenic outdoor escapes with hiking, paddling, and cycling amid rolling hills and Ohio’s natural heritage.

Spring through FallExplore Town
McArthur
⌖ 16.74 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
Rockbridge
⌖ 18.35 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
New Plymouth
⌖ 18.48 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
Circleville
⌖ 18.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Circleville, Ohio

A charming small town offering access to serene outdoor experiences focused on hiking, paddling, and seasonal outdoor activities amid scenic parks and nearby nature preserves.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Tar Hollow State Park

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.