Tar Hollow State Park wilderness guide
State Park · OH

Tar Hollow State Park

Tar Hollow State Park is a serene natural area in Ohio, offering visitors scenic hiking, camping opportunities, and vibrant fall foliage.

State Park6044+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

604

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Tar Hollow State Park

Tar Hollow State Park is a serene natural area in Ohio, offering visitors scenic hiking, camping opportunities, and vibrant fall foliage.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Tar Hollow State Park, spanning over 600 acres in southeastern Ohio, offers a natural retreat with its rolling hills, dense woodlands, and clear streams. The park lies within the larger Tar Hollow State Forest, creating a vast area of scenic beauty. The geography of the park features rugged landscapes, providing a range of hiking trails for various skill levels. Ecologically, the park is home to diverse plant species and wildlife, with the hardwood forests showcasing brilliant colors during the fall. Historically, the area was used for harvesting tar, which contributed to its name. Today, the park is cherished for its outdoor recreational offerings, ranging from hiking and camping to fishing and boating on Pine Lake, a central feature of the park. Visitors are drawn to its peaceful environment and the opportunity to connect with nature, while families enjoy the well-equipped campgrounds and picnic areas. Tar Hollow continues to attract nature lovers with its tranquil beauty and recreational diversity, making it a destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Tar Hollow State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Pine Lake, perfect for boating and fishing activities✦ The rich hardwood forests, home to a variety of wildlife✦ The historic fire tower offering expansive views of the forest✦ The challenging North Ridge Trail, known for its scenic overlooks
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Tar Hollow State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Tar Hollow State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Tar Hollow State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee is required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Tar Hollow State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Tar Hollow State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

South Bloomingville, Ohio
⌖ 8.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Bloomingville, Ohio

South Bloomingville, Ohio offers rugged hiking, thrilling caving, rock climbing, and tranquil paddling in the scenic Hocking Hills. This quiet Appalachian spot draws outdoor lovers seeking a genuine wilderness adventure year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Chillicothe, Ohio
⌖ 13.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chillicothe, Ohio

Chillicothe offers outdoor lovers quiet trails, historic earthworks, and river paddling. With ample biking and fishing options, this Ohio town is a serene base for exploring nature and local history from spring through fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
McArthur, Ohio
⌖ 16.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

McArthur, Ohio

McArthur offers adventure seekers close-knit access to outdoor activities like hiking and biking in lush state forests. Its historical sites and parkland provide excellent trails and serene natural beauty.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Rockbridge, Ohio
⌖ 18.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rockbridge, Ohio

Rockbridge, Ohio, offers pristine landscapes and exhilarating adventures through its unique geography and remote feel. Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking amidst natural wonders.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
New Plymouth, Ohio
⌖ 18.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

New Plymouth, Ohio

New Plymouth, Ohio, offers a peaceful rural retreat with hiking, bird watching, fishing, and paddling along the Maumee River. This quiet spot blends gentle outdoor activities with authentic countryside charm for laid-back adventurers.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Circleville, Ohio
⌖ 18.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Circleville, Ohio

Circleville, Ohio, offers outdoor enthusiasts peaceful forest trails, paddling on the Scioto River, and rich cultural history. It’s a great spot for hiking, fishing, and camping amid lush parks and historic earthworks.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Tar Hollow State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Six Hours on Horseback Through Crystal Falls and Red Rock
ADVEXPEDITION
South Bloomingville, Ohio
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

Six Hours on Horseback Through Crystal Falls and Red Rock

A private, six-hour guided ride in South Bloomingville that visits Crystal Falls, Red Rock and other signature formations—useful for planning logistics, age and weight restrictions, and what to bring.

Sightseeing TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Two-Hour Ride into the Woods of Hocking State Forest
ADVEXPEDITION
South Bloomingville, Ohio
HorseADV Bookable

Two-Hour Ride into the Woods of Hocking State Forest

A guided, two-hour horseback ride near South Bloomingville that takes riders into forest trails and across streams; this guide distills the confirmed route, rules, and what to bring.

HorsePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip