Hocking County
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View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Hocking County
Hocking County — County Seat: Logan
2026 Population Estimate: 27,564 | Official Website: https://www.hocking.oh.gov/
Hocking County is one of Ohio's premier nature tourism destinations, a geologically stunning south-central Ohio county with Logan as its county seat. The county is home to the magnificent Hocking Hills State Park — Ohio's most visited state park — featuring extraordinary sandstone gorges, waterfalls, caves, and recessed caves including the beloved Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls. The Hocking Hills region draws over 6 million visitors annually and is a destination for hiking, zip-lining, cabin retreats, and nature photography. The area's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with hundreds of cabin resorts and outdoor adventure businesses. Hocking College in Nelsonville (Athens County) serves the region. The county also contains portions of the Wayne National Forest and the scenic Hocking River valley. Hocking County represents Appalachian Ohio at its most visually spectacular.
▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Tourism, outdoor recreation, education, and small manufacturing.
Major employers include Hocking Hills State Park system (one of Ohio's top outdoor destinations), Hocking College, OhioHealth Logan Hospital, and small manufacturers. Tourism is the county's primary growth sector, drawing 3+ million visitors annually to Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, and Conkle's Hollow.
▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
Hocking County is investing in eco-tourism infrastructure through Ohio Parks and Recreation grants. Hocking College's natural resources, culinary, and business programs align with the tourism economy. ARC funding supports small business development and broadband. A 2024 initiative focused on expanding the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway amenities.
▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
US-33 is the primary highway. The Hocking River corridor is being developed for recreational trails. Broadband expansion is critical for remote lodging operators who rely on reservation platforms. State investment in state park facilities is ongoing.