The Short Version
Rockbridge State Nature Preserve does not allow dogs. Neither does Conkle's Hollow (5 min away) or Boch Hollow. These are State Nature Preserves with strict ecosystem protections — it's not negotiable, and it's enforced.
But most of Hocking Hills' best trails do allow leashed dogs. Here's the full breakdown:
✅ Dogs Allowed (6-foot leash required)
Old Man's Cave
1.0–1.5 mi, Moderate. 15 min from Rockbridge.
Ash Cave
0.25 mi gorge, Easy. Wheelchair accessible. 15 min.
Cedar Falls
0.5–0.9 mi, Moderate. Best trail for dogs in the park. 15 min.
Rock House
0.5–1.0 mi, Moderate-Difficult. 200 stone stairs. 10 min.
Cantwell Cliffs
2.0 mi, Difficult. Dogs allowed but not recommended. 20 min.
Whispering Cave / Hemlock Bridge
1.2–5.0 mi, Strenuous. 15 min from Rockbridge.
❌ Dogs Prohibited
Rockbridge Preserve
State Nature Preserve. No exceptions.
Conkle's Hollow
State Nature Preserve. No exceptions.
Boch Hollow
State Nature Preserve. No exceptions.
Clear Creek Metro Park
Dogs only on 1-mi Creekside Meadows section.
Pet-Friendly Cabins
Over 200 properties in the Hocking Hills region accept pets. Typical fees range from $15–$75 per pet per stay. Most allow a maximum of 2 pets. Several operators specifically cater to dog owners with zero breed or size restrictions.