Want to explore some spectacular caves within walking distance when you stay at the Cabin at the Preserve? State owned Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve is a 14 acre complex with seven Black Hand sandstone caves. They abut the property on Big Pine Road. This preserve boasts the most spectacular set of recess caves contained in such a compact area.

Known for nearly two centuries as Saltpetre Caves, these natural formations stood out as a well-known geological wonder, not only to the European settlers who came to the area, but also to the Native Americans who frequented the Hocking Hills as a hunting ground.

These caves have evolved as a series of recesses which are typical of the Hocking Hills region. A couple of the caves range from 124 to 143 feet deep, with 8 foot ceilings and openings 125 feet wide. One cave includes a natural arch with an opening of 100 feet. Hemlock, birch and tulip trees grow around the caves, and the view of the valley below is stunning.

Saltpetre Caves State Nature Preserve is open to the public by permit only. We will attempt to have permits available for our guests, but to ensure you will have them as needed, please arrange for permits for your party by calling the ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves at 614-265-6453, or by visiting their website.

Sheick Hollow State Nature Preserve

This 151 acre preserve is nestled around a creek that traverses Sheick Hollow. The large timber, rock formations, waterfalls and diverse plant life represent the unique characteristics of the region. The Cabin at the Preserve overlooks the front of the Preserve, and can be explored with proper permits as well. We will make attempts to provide passes, but to ensure you will have them as needed, please contact the ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves at 614-265-6453, or by visiting their website.