Dog rules at Hocking Hills State Park
All of Hocking Hills State Park's major trails allow dogs on a six-foot leash. That includes Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Conkle's Hollow, Rock House, Cantwell Cliffs, and Rockbridge. Dogs are not allowed in the swimming pool area or inside any of the state park's indoor facilities (the dining lodge, the nature center). Dogs are allowed in park campgrounds.
A few practical notes:
- The gorge trails at Old Man's Cave and Conkle's Hollow include narrow stone steps and short rock scrambles. Fit dogs handle them fine. Older or arthritic dogs can struggle.
- Bring a collapsible water bowl. There are creek crossings but the water is often too silty for dogs to drink comfortably. Spigots are available at the main visitor centers.
- Pick up after your dog. The state park expects it. Bring extra bags for remote sections.
- In summer, the sandstone can get hot by midday. Morning hikes are better for paws.
Best dog-friendly trails
- Ash Cave: The easiest of the major formations for dogs. The main trail is a paved, accessible path that loops to the massive recess cave and back. No stairs, no scrambling.
- Conkle's Hollow Lower Trail: The lower gorge trail is flat, wide, and well-shaded. Perfect for dogs that want a cooler summer walk. The rim trail above is not recommended for dogs due to cliff exposure.
- Cedar Falls: Moderate stairs down to the falls and back up. Most dogs handle it fine. Quieter than Old Man's Cave on weekends.
- Wayne National Forest trails: Avenwood Cabins sits inside Wayne National Forest, which allows dogs on most trails with fewer rules than the state park. Starting from the property, you can hike without ever seeing another person.
What to leave on leash at the cabin
Most Avenwood guests use a long tie-out cable at the fire pit so their dog can relax outside while they grill or sit on the porch. The wooded lots mean there is a lot for dogs to explore, but there is also wildlife (deer, coyotes, sometimes a curious raccoon at dusk) that will get your dog very interested. We do not recommend letting dogs off-leash on the property. The Getaway House is the only cabin with a fully fenced backyard, which is why many dog owners book it first.
Avenwood Cabins pet policy
All 14 Avenwood cabins are pet-friendly. We charge a $50 flat rate that covers all pets for the entire stay. There is no per-pet charge, no weight limit, and no breed restriction. Bring one dog, two dogs, or a golden retriever that thinks he is a small child. It all fits.
A few requests. Please keep pets off the beds and furniture (bring their own bed or a blanket). Crate them if you leave the cabin without them, so they do not get anxious and chew. Sweep up any pet fur before you leave, so we can ready the cabin for the next guest quickly. A $150 fine applies for pet damage.
See all pet-friendly cabins or jump straight to The Getaway House if you want the fenced yard.