Rock Stalls Natural Sanctuary near Hocking Hills, Ohio

A privately-owned sanctuary that’s generously opened its doors to the public, Rock Stalls flies under the radar of most tourists to Hocking Hills—which is part of what makes it such a charming place to visit.

A short, winding path through the forest, a tucked-away waterfall, and low odds of seeing many other people are three great reasons to visit Rock Stalls; keep reading to learn more about the sanctuary, how to get there, and when to visit.

What is Rock Stalls Natural Sanctuary?

Rock Stalls is a 70-acre, private sanctuary owned by nearby Camp Akita. And though it’s not public land, Camp Akita leaves the grounds open to the public until 5 P.M. each day.

The nature sanctuary is gorgeous, but small: There’s one short trail and a waterfall. But you’re just a short drive from the much larger Boch Hollows State Nature Preserve, and permit-only Robinson Falls—this is an underrated area, packed with places to visit.

Rock Stalls is a great place to explore year-round, but you’ll have a better chance of seeing the waterfall at full strength if you go during the fall, winter, or spring. It’s still beautiful in the summer, but if you visit during a dry spell, the waterfall might be mostly dry.

Where is Rock Stalls Natural Sanctuary located, and how do I get there?

Rock Stalls is located to the northwest of the town of Logan, about a 30-minute drive from Hocking Hills State Park. It’s just a few minutes from Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve, which is well worth the visit if you make the drive up to Rock Stalls.

Here’s an unofficial address for Rock Stalls: 29828 Rock Stull Road, Logan, OH 43138

Though there’s no official maps listing, the address above will get you close to the parking area for Rock Stalls. You’ll see a sign and the parking lot, and you can begin your hike from there.

Rock Stalls Natural Sanctuary hiking and trail information

There’s just one trail at Rock Stalls Natural Sanctuary. You’ll start at the right (western) end of the parking lot, following a small creek that forms a couple of small waterfalls during the rainy season. To get down to the main, 20-foot waterfall, keep an eye out for a set of wooden stairs—they’re not on the main trail, but you’ll need to hike them in order to find the waterfall.

To the left of the main waterfall, you’ll see an opening in the rock that leads you to a second waterfall. This one is a bit smaller: Both waterfalls are mostly dry by July and August, hanging on through June as best they can. If you want to make sure you see the waterfalls, visit in mid-summer—though the area is beautiful with or without the waterfalls

The hike is just over 1 mile round-trip, which means you can hike out-and-back in about half an hour. The trail is family-friendly; most people won’t find difficulties hiking at Rock Stalls.

The history behind Rock Stalls Natural Sanctuary

The 70 acres now called Rock Stalls were purchased for just $7,000 in 1959 by Camp Akita, the same group that owns the preserve today.

A developer offered the owner a higher bid for the property, pitching a vision to build properties above the canyon rim. But, approving of Camp Akita’s impact on the area and its visitors, the owner sold the land to Camp Akita. Today, though privately owned, it’s open to the public during the day.

The history of the features that make Rock Stalls so beautiful, however, goes back millions of years. Ohio used to be covered by a shallow, warm sea. When this sea eventually receded, Black Hand sandstone was formed, which is the characteristic rock you’ll see all throughout the Hocking Hills region. Because the middle section of Black Hand sandstone is susceptible to erosion, the years have worn it down into canyons, gorges, and recess caves.

FAQs about Rock Stalls Natural Preserve

Are dogs allowed at Rock Stalls?

Yes, dogs are allowed!

Are there waterfalls at Rock Stalls?

There are waterfalls at Rock Stalls, but you’re more likely to see them if you visit during the rainy season. During midsummer, the creek at Rock Stalls slows to a trickle and, sometimes, disappears completely.

Is Rock Stalls private property?

Yes, but it’s open to the public during the day, thanks to Camp Akita’s generous policy.

Places to stay

Wondering where to stay when you visit Hocking Hills? Clear Falls has 15 cabins situated on a secluded 500-acre wildlife preserve. It’s paradise in the wilderness—and just a few minutes’ walk from most of Hocking Hills’ most beautiful attractions. Find your cabin below.

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The Bottom Line

A cave, a waterfall, and a meandering woodland path just minutes from Hocking Hills? Hard to refuse that formula. This is a magical spot to spend an hour or two: It’s close to Hocking Hills State Park, but you’ll see just a fraction of the visitors at Rock Stalls. Once you’re done here, drive to nearby Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve for some longer hikes.