Hocking Hills Old Mans Cave Shelter

About

The Old Man's Cave Shelter at Hocking Hills State Park offers a rare opportunity to camp overnight in one of Ohio's most iconic natural formations. Named after hermit Richard Rowe who lived in the cave in the 19th century, Old Man's Cave is a dramatic recess cave carved from Blackhand sandstone by centuries of water erosion. The shelter provides primitive accommodations with a built-in fireplace but no electrical hookups or running water. This unique camping experience places you at the heart of Hocking Hills' trail system. The six-mile Grandma Gatewood Trail begins here and connects to Cedar Falls and Ash Cave, making the shelter an ideal base for multi-day exploration. The gorge features dramatic waterfalls, towering hemlock trees, and stunning rock formations. Due to the one-of-a-kind nature of this accommodation, reservations typically book 6+ months in advance through ReserveOhio. The shelter allows pets and enforces a 7-day maximum stay. Basic pit toilet facilities are available nearby, but campers should come prepared for primitive conditions with their own water supply.

Directions

Located at Old Man's Cave in Hocking Hills State Park off State Route 664 in Hocking County. The park visitor center is at the Old Man's Cave parking lot.