Tar Hollow State Park sprawls across 619 acres of rugged, heavily forested terrain in Hocking County, Ohio, offering one of the most immersive woodland experiences in the state. Named for the pine tar once produced by early settlers in the region, the park sits within the larger Tar Hollow State Forest, giving visitors access to an expansive network of trails that extends well beyond the park’s boundaries.

The landscape here is defined by steep ridges, deep hollows, and a dense canopy of oak, hickory, and pine that makes autumn visits spectacular. Hikers can explore over 20 miles of trails ranging from easy loops to challenging ridge climbs, including a section of the 21-mile Logan Trail for backpackers seeking a multi-day adventure. The park’s 15-acre pine lake draws anglers after bass and bluegill, while a small sand beach provides a welcome cooldown during summer months.

Mountain biking is permitted on designated trails, and the park’s relative seclusion makes it a strong pick for birding — pileated woodpeckers and cerulean warblers are regularly spotted in the mature forest. Horseback riding trails wind through the surrounding state forest as well.

The best time to visit is mid-October, when the hardwood canopy erupts in color and the summer crowds thin out. Spring wildflower season in April and May is equally rewarding.

Expect a quieter, more rugged experience than Ohio’s heavily trafficked state parks — Tar Hollow rewards visitors who come looking for solitude and uninterrupted forest.

Explore Nearby

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• Wayne National Forest — National Forest in Ohio
• Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Ohio
• Bennett’s Mill Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Kentucky
• Oldtown Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Kentucky