Saltpetre Cave & Sheick Hollow

Just steps from The Preserve and Creekside cabins are two of Hocking Hills' lesser-known natural treasures — Saltpetre Cave and Sheick Hollow State Nature Preserves. These permit-only preserves offer dramatic sandstone formations, recess caves, waterfalls, hemlock forests and a quieter side of Hocking Hills that many visitors never experience.

Both preserves require a free ODNR permit for access. We recommend applying before your trip so your permit is in place before arrival. Use the link below to learn more and apply through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. To directly link to the ODNR Permit, you can access it here.

There are many more Nature Preserves in the State of Ohio; some require a permit to access. You can find more details here. (Click "Find a Nature Preserve” and search Logan 43138 or Rockbridge 43149.)

Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve

Saltpetre Cave may be only about 14 acres, but it packs remarkable scenery into a small preserve. Massive recess caves carved into Black Hand Sandstone create dramatic rock shelters, openings and passageways surrounded by hemlock, birch and tulip trees.

Some of the caves reach more than 120 feet deep, with broad openings and towering sandstone formations. One includes a striking natural arch, while the surrounding forest and views into the valley make the preserve feel wonderfully secluded.

For guests staying at The Preserve or Creekside, it's an opportunity to experience the geology Hocking Hills is famous for — without starting your day at one of the area's busiest trailheads.

Seasonal Access: Saltpetre Cave Nature Preserve is closed October 1 through April 1 to protect endangered bats during hibernation. Sheick Hollow Nature Preserve remains available to permitted visitors during this period.

Learn more about Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve and apply for your permit here.

Additional information can be found on TrekOhio's blog.

Sheick Hollow State Nature Preserve

Sheick Hollow offers a very different experience. This 151-acre preserve follows a secluded stream through a narrow sandstone hollow surrounded by towering hemlocks, birch, rock formations and diverse plant life. Along the way, water tumbles through the hollow in a series of cascades and waterfalls.

The Preserve Cabin overlooks Sheick Hollow, putting this beautiful and lesser-known side of Hocking Hills remarkably close to your stay. It's a wonderful place for hiking, bird watching, photography and simply enjoying the quiet of the forest.

Learn more about Sheick Hollow State Nature Preserve and apply for your permit here.

MORE TO EXPLORE NEARBY

The preserves are just the beginning. Several other lesser-known Hocking Hills destinations and outdoor adventures are nearby, including Airplane Rock, Chapel Cave, Balanced Rock and the Hocking State Forest Rock Climbing & Rappelling Area.

TrekOhio, Hiking the Parks & Preserves of Ohio, has detailed information about other nearby hidden gems.

Saltpetre Cave & Sheick Hollow

Saltpetre Cave State Nature Preserve

Sheick Hollow State Nature Preserve

MORE TO EXPLORE NEARBY

Airplane Rock

Chapel Cave (aka, 21 Horse Cave)

Balanced Rock

Hocking State Forest: Rock Climbing & Rappelling