Hocking Hills Cantwell Cliffs Shelter

About

Cantwell Cliffs Shelter sits in the most remote and least-visited section of Hocking Hills State Park, offering a quieter wilderness experience compared to the more popular attractions like Old Man's Cave and Ash Cave. The shelter provides a base for exploring the Cantwell Cliffs area, where Buck Run has carved deep valleys and towering cliffs reaching 80 feet in height through Black Hand sandstone. The trail system includes both rim and gorge routes, with highlights including 'The Squeeze,' a narrow passageway between massive slump blocks, and Lookout Point on the east rim trail offering commanding views of the valley below. Rocky steps cut through the cliff face connect the upper and lower sections of the trail. The shelter is reservable through ReserveOhio.com and provides access to a pit toilet at the trailhead. This is a day-use facility with picnic amenities rather than a developed campground, so visitors should come prepared with their own water and supplies. The remote location means fewer crowds but also fewer services compared to the main Hocking Hills campground area.

Directions

From Old Man's Cave, travel north on State Route 374 for approximately 17 miles. The Cantwell Cliffs parking area and trailhead are located along SR 374 in the northern section of Hocking Hills State Park.