If you’ve ever wanted to immerse yourself in nature without straying too far from home, Hocking Hills is the perfect destination. Just a short drive from Columbus, it’s ideal for a weekend (or even a day trip!).
We recently ventured to Hocking Hills with our two little adventurers, ages 5 and 3, and it was a fantastic experience for the whole family. Here’s exactly how our trip went – plus helpful tips if you’re planning your own.
Day 1: Arrival at Pikachu’s Palace
We kicked off our adventure by checking into Pikachu’s Palace, a Pokémon-themed treehouse at Hocking Hills Treehouse Resort. The moment we arrived, our kids’ eyes lit up. The treehouse was beautifully designed with playful Pokémon touches that made the stay feel extra magical.
It was spacious enough for our family of four, cozy but not cramped – and truly felt like an experience, not just a place to sleep.
For dinner, we headed to Millstone BBQ. Known for its smoked meats and laid-back atmosphere, it was the perfect first-night spot. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich, my husband went with the brisket platter, and the kids happily cleaned their plates. Great food + friendly service = mom win.
We ended the night back at the treehouse with family game time and a movie before bed.
Day 2: Slow Morning + Big Adventures
One of the best parts of staying in a treehouse? Slow, cozy mornings.
We started the day making bacon and eggs on the Blackstone, which felt like the ultimate cabin-core moment. After breakfast, we all soaked in the hot tub together – coffee in hand for mom and dad, giggles from the kids. It was the perfect relaxed start before heading out.
Morning Hike: Ash Cave
We headed to Ash Cave, and if you’re visiting with littles, this is a must. The trail is wide, mostly flat, and stroller-friendly. The massive recessed cave and waterfall make it feel dramatic without requiring a strenuous hike.
Our kids loved being able to walk most of it themselves. It’s one of the most family-friendly hikes in Hocking Hills.
Lunch at Pizza Crossing
After working up an appetite, we grabbed lunch at Pizza Crossing – a local favorite. Casual, quick, and exactly what everyone wanted after hiking. Sometimes pizza just hits differently after a morning outside.
Afternoon: Hocking Hills Children’s Museum
In the afternoon, we headed to the Hocking Hills Children’s Museum, which was such a great balance to the outdoor adventures. It gave the kids a chance to play, explore, and reset in a hands-on environment.
If you’re traveling with toddlers or preschoolers, this stop is 100% worth adding to your itinerary.
Evening: Lakefront Treehouse + S’mores
We wrapped up our trip by checking into The Lakefront Treehouse at The Oasis Hocking Hills.
The view of the lake from the deck was absolutely beautiful. In the early evening, the water was calm and glassy, reflecting the trees and the soft glow of sunset. It was one of those moments where you just pause and think, how is this only an hour from Columbus?
We ended the night making s’mores by the lake, watching the sky change colors. Sticky fingers, marshmallow smiles, and nonstop giggles – the kind of simple magic that makes these trips so worth it.
Our Hocking Hills getaway was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. From cooking breakfast on the Blackstone and soaking in the hot tub to hiking Ash Cave and ending the night with s’mores by the lake – it felt easy, special, and totally doable with young kids.
If you’re a Columbus family looking for a close-to-home escape that feels like a true adventure, Hocking Hills should absolutely be on your list!
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