You want to go on spring break but your budget is tight and gas prices rise more every day. There are low-cost eco-tourism opportunities waiting for you in southern Ohio. Even if a long drive or short flight is required to reach the Buckeye State your wallet will not be emptied with an off the beaten path eco-retreat. You can explore the caves and hills of the Hocking Hills region for free and stay at a host of "green" lodging facilities.
The Hocking Hills region of rural Ohio is one of the best kept vacation destination secrets. Outdoor adventure enthusiasts will find a haven of recreational options which are either free or far less than a ticket to a major theme park. After an exciting day of hiking to Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls and by the Devil's Bath Tub, you can relax in a rustic cabin in the woods. Although you will not have oceanfront views or throngs of drunken coeds next door, there is more than enough excitement to keep you entertained on your earth-friendly journey. A portion of Ash Cave is handicap accessible and allows those with mobility issues to watch the cascading waterfall near the lip of the main cave.
You can go zip lining through a canopy of tall of trees at the Hocking Peaks Outdoor Adventure Park or roll 600 feet down a hill inside an OGO ball. The massive orbs are gravity powered and are currently only available in three locations in the United States. The zip line course stretches for several miles and is not only the highest in the state, but also includes an aerial obstacle course. If you are traveling as a family, the little ones can traverse the youth course and water slide.
Moonville Rail Trail offers seclusion and rugged trails for muscle-powered activities. You can ride horses along the old railroad bed and through a 100 year old tunnel. You can hike for miles and never see another person or a power line above your head. Zaleski State Forest and Lake Hope State Park offer boating, fishing and mountain biking activities.
Campgrounds, horse camps, lodges, chalets and cabins ranging from rustic to luxurious are all available within one mile of the Hocking Hills State Park. You can enjoy an outdoor sunrise yoga session, meals comprised of locally grown food from the Traveling Gourmet and spa services either at your lodging site or one of the local spas. If you are would like to do a bit of shopping, downtown Logan features antique stores, art galleries and scores of gift shops with homemade items from local residents. Hocking House and the Hocking Hills Visitor Center are located near the main entryway to the Hocking Hills are showcase all the activities in the region.
