Situated in beautiful southeast Ohio, Hocking Hills is known for its scenic views. When you visit Hocking Hills, you’ll find a mix of kayaking destinations for beginners as well as those who like a little adventure on the water. Although there are plenty of great places to go kayaking in Ohio, the area around Hocking Hills is one of the best.
You can find calm lakes as well as meandering rivers, all within an hour’s drive from Hocking Hills. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned paddler, these spots are perfect for soaking in Ohio’s natural beauty.
Make your stay even better by booking a cozy cabin rental in Hocking Hills to relax before and after your kayaking adventure.
Here’s a guide to the best kayaking in and around Hocking Hills.
1. Hocking Hills Canoe Livery
Location: Logan, OH
Start your Hocking Hills kayaking journey with a visit to Hocking Hills Canoe Livery. Located right in Logan, this popular full-service outfitter offers kayak rentals, canoe trips, and more.
For beginners, this spot provides short, easy-going river trips along the scenic Hocking River, complete with life jackets and guidance from a friendly staff. Paddlers of all skill levels can enjoy this picturesque waterway, featuring peaceful sandbars and gentle currents.
2. Hocking Hills Adventures
Location: Logan, OH
When you’re looking for a good variety of kayak trips and river outings close to Hocking Hills, check out Hocking Hills Adventures. This company offers various excursions along the Hocking River, including a guided Natural Rockbridge Tour and the Crockett’s Run Tour.
This area is great for both beginners and seasoned paddlers, each trip highlights unique views of rock formations, natural arches, and sandbars. This is also a great option for walk-ins and spontaneous kayaking trips.
3. Lake Logan State Park
Location: Logan, OH, 10 minutes from Hocking Hills
Just a short drive from Hocking Hills, Lake Logan State Park is a beautiful, tranquil lake perfect for a relaxing kayak trip. With easy kayak rentals available, it’s a go-to spot for paddlers seeking calm waters surrounded by forested hills.
This location is perfect for all skill levels and offers peaceful picnic areas. It’s a great spot for a full day getaway. Enjoy the scenic views of the lake and surrounding foliage as you paddle through this serene oasis.
4. Adventure Pro Outdoors
Location: Logan, OH, 15 minutes from Hocking Hills
Another local outfitter with diverse offerings, Adventure Pro Outdoors provides everything from kayak rental to tube float trips. Located along the Hocking River, this outfitter’s kayak trips are perfect for beginners and families, offering both guided and self-guided options. The staff are known for their helpful service, providing life jackets and gear for a comfortable trip.
Adventure Pro Outdoors also organizes Crockett’s Run and other notable kayaking routes in the Hocking Hills region.
5. Rockbridge State Nature Preserve
Location: Rockbridge, OH, 20 minutes from Hocking Hills
The Rockbridge State Nature Preserve is famous for its stunning natural rockbridge formation, and it’s a great destination for both hiking and kayaking. Paddle along the nearby sections of the Hocking River to take in views of the surrounding bluffs and rock formations.
While kayaking, enjoy the peaceful environment and the area’s unique natural wonders, making this a fantastic choice for a relaxing day trip close to Hocking Hills.
6. Crockett’s Run
Location: Near Logan, OH, 30 minutes from Hocking Hills
A favorite spot among locals, Crockett’s Run offers scenic river trips that pass through some of the most picturesque stretches of the Hocking River. This route is beginner-friendly, making it perfect for a leisurely kayak trip or a family canoe trip.
The area is well-known for its natural beauty, with sandbars, wildlife, and quiet waters perfect for unwinding on a peaceful day out.
7. Cedar Falls
Location: Hocking Hills State Park, OH
Located within Hocking Hills State Park, Cedar Falls is one of the most scenic areas in the region. While you can’t kayak directly at the falls, nearby sections of the Hocking River offer excellent opportunities for paddling and exploring the area’s unique rock features.
Cedar Falls is an ideal spot for a paddling trip that combines a kayak outing with nearby hiking trails and canopy tours.
8. Hocking Hills Kayak Outings
Location: Logan, OH and surrounding areas
Several local businesses in Logan specialize in custom kayak trips in the Hocking Hills region. These trips can be made to fit your schedule as well as your skill level. You can find options for half-day or full-day adventures in the Hocking Hills area. Kayak trips on the Hocking River are great for first-time paddlers as well as seasoned kayakers.
Best of all, you’ll find that there are plenty of put-in and take-out options throughout the river’s route. You’ll find it easy to take breaks to check out the local area, head into town for lunch, or just take a break when you’re on the water.
9. The Hocking River Scenic Route
Location: Logan, OH
The Hocking River itself is an ideal spot for exploring the water at your own pace. Known as one of Ohio’s most scenic rivers, it provides numerous places to paddle while taking in the natural beauty of Hocking Hills kayaking.
Local businesses offer kayak rentals and guided river trips. This lets you choose a route that best matches your kayaking experience and desired trip length. Whether you want a short trip down the river to spend a few hours in nature, or you’re looking for a longer trip that includes an overnight stay, you’ll find what you’re looking for on the scenic route!
10. Hocking River Sandbars
Location: Logan, OH
For those interested in a more leisurely kayak trip, the sandbars along the Hocking River offer perfect spots to stop and enjoy a picnic or quick break. Popular with locals, these sandbars are excellent for families and groups who want to combine paddling with some riverside relaxation.
With several mile trip options, the Hocking River sandbars make for a customizable kayaking experience where you can paddle as much, or as little, as you want.
Plan Your Perfect Hocking Hills Kayaking Getaway
With numerous options right in town or just a short drive away, Hocking Hills has something for every kayaker. Whether you want to take a tranquil paddle across Lake Logan or you want to have a little more adventure by kayaking along the Natural Rockbridge, the region offers unforgettable kayaking experiences for every skill level.
Many of these destinations have friendly staff, outfitters, and amenities, making Hocking Hills kayaking accessible and enjoyable for all. Get ready to experience the best of Ohio’s scenic waterways and create lasting memories on your next Hocking Hills adventure!