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Embark on an aquatic adventure in Ohio’s hidden gem: Hocking Hills.
Nestled amidst lush forests and dramatic cliffs, Hocking Hills kayaking offers a thrilling journey through nature’s masterpiece.
Glide along pristine waters, explore secret coves, and witness breathtaking scenery.
Get ready to paddle your way into an unforgettable experience, whether you float down the Hocking River in a canoe or paddle along the rugged shorelines of the region’s picturesque lakes.
3 Best Places To Kayak At Hocking Hills
Hocking River
The Hocking River is one of the largest in the state and flows through the scenic Hocking Valley with the ancient Hocking Hills providing an idyllic backdrop. This can be a peaceful place to kayak, with wildlife often spotted along the quiet banks.
The scenic Hocking River is generally slow-moving, with some sections with mild Class II rapids. Most of the rapids can be portaged if they’re too challenging for your skill level.
However, there are many sections that can be paddled without encountering rapids, which I find are more suitable canoe trips for beginners and kayaking with young children.
The section between Rockbridge and Logan offers relaxed paddling through the Rockbridge State Nature Preserve. I recommend this section if you want to hike to view the natural rockbridge.
You’ll also find sandbars on the Hocking River that can provide good resting spots along the way.
After Logan, the Hocking River flows through Wayne National Forest with further opportunities for wildlife viewing before it reaches the Ohio River at Hockingport.
There are several kayak outfitters operating rentals and guided tours on the Hocking River, either by kayak or canoe, including the family-owned Hocking Hills Adventures.
Class of Rapids rating:
Class I/II – easy, mostly Class I and slow-moving water with some mild Class II rapids.
Where to launch & How to get there:
Falls Mill Bridge, River Street, Logan, OH 43138
Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park offers stunning scenery and a peaceful environment for a family kayak or canoe trip. Rose Lake is a quiet lake surrounded by nature, with a forested shoreline and calm water.
One of the best things about this lake is that it’s limited to paddle crafts and small boats with electric motors. This means it’s great for beginners looking for calm, sheltered waters and minimal boat traffic. The flatwater also makes it perfect if you want to canoe or paddleboard.
Rose Lake is located next to the state park campground, so it can be ideal if you want to extend your trip and spend a couple of nights camping and exploring the area.
If you like stargazing, I’ve discovered this is one of the best places in Ohio to view the night sky with little to no light pollution to affect the visibility.
One thing to note is that there is no parking next to the lake, so you will have to carry your kayak a short distance along a trail. There are also no boat rentals inside the park.
Class of Rapids rating:
N/A – flatwater lake, easy
Where to launch & How to get there:
Rose Lake Overlook, off Buckeye Trail, Logan, OH 43138. Access is by walking trail from the campground or a longer hike from the visitor center.