Hocking Hills has some of the best views in Ohio. The area features plenty of activities that are perfect for children and adults of all ages. Whether you are coming to visit for the first time or the 10th time, we guarantee you will find something to do here in town. Take a look at some attractions for children in Hocking Hills:
Attractions for Children in Hocking Hills
It should not be surprising that the first attraction available in Hocking Hills that is perfect for children is Hocking Hills State Park. This local state park is what the area is practically known for and is beautiful to see in person. As parents, we always want to make sure our children are not stuck in front of a screen during all times of the day. Taking them outside for a casual and stress-free hike is the perfect way to show them something else. Hocking Hills State Park is a huge preserve of wooded terrain. While parents may be initially hesitant to go on a hike with children, you will be pleasantly surprised to know that the hikes in the park are very easy. A paved road takes you from the entrance down to where the trails will eventually split off.
The park features various areas, including the ever-popular Old Man’s Cave. This part of Hocking Hills State Park is the most popular trail. Visitors will be able to hike by flowing waterfalls and see beautiful pools of water such as the Devil’s Bathtub. Kids will have a blast walking over the bridges that will continue your journey. Old Man’s Cave is stroller and leashed dog friendly so the whole family can join you on your casual hike. Some areas of the trail can be slippery so mind where you are walking during the hike. Another popular area of Hocking Hills State Park is Ash Cave. This beautiful area features an incredible cavern and other outdoor features. Visitors will also find additional waterfalls along the trail. Much of the trail for Ash Cave is paved, making it easier to manage exploring than Old Man’s Cave. Hocking Hills State Park is the most popular attraction in the region. Visitors should plan on visiting early in the day to beat the crowds that will show up during the busier travel times of the year.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
Guests can make the short drive over to Nelsonville and find the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. This wonderful attraction offers train rides in the region. Each train ride is approximately two hours long and features a unique theme. These themes can include an ice cream ride, a “great train robbery,” a classic scenic ride, and more. Conductors will always make sure that the passengers, especially children, will have a great time aboard the train. While you will not pass by the Hocking Hills State Park, some of the scenery you will see during the ride can include rivers, forests, and fields. Take a ride aboard the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, especially if you have not ridden on a train before.
Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum
Young children can always appreciate something quirky, so make sure to take them by the Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum. This attraction is exactly what you think it is, a quirky museum filled with pencil sharpeners. Paul Johnson’s estate was donated to the county upon his death and is now the welcome center for Hocking Hills. His pencil sharpener collection has been rearranged just the way he previously had it. The interior features over 3,400 different pencil sharpeners, one of the largest collections on the planet! The Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum is relatively small and will only take around 5 minutes to see its entirety.
Hocking River – Hocking Hills Adventures
The Hocking River can be found close by where families can enjoy a variety of activities by the original canoe livery. Here you can find Hocking Hills Adventures and their incredible river tours. Enjoy a trip by kayak, tube, canoe, or raft down the Hocking River. They offer Torchlight Tours that the kids will especially enjoy at night. The Hocking Valley Canoe Livery also has a variety of family-friendly activities including mini golf, go-karts, and horseback riding. You can find an activity for everyone in the family when you choose Hocking Hills Adventures for your outdoor activities.
Book Today for Hocking Hills
There are plenty of kid-friendly activities right here in the surrounding Hocking Hills community. Make sure to reserve one of our vacation rentals in the area so you can be just a short drive away from these local attractions. You will experience fine amenities and features in each property we have to offer.