Nestled in the southeastern corner of Ohio, Hocking Hills draws adventurers with rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls and a canopy of hemlocks that make you feel worlds away from everyday life. I’ve spent countless weekends roaming its trails and nights gazing at skies littered with stars. Over the years, I’ve learned that nothing compares to returning from a long hike and slipping into a warm, bubbling hot tub surrounded by forest. In this guide I’ll share my favorite cabin rentals near Hocking Hills that offer private hot tubs, serene settings and thoughtful amenities. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family reunion or a solo retreat, these properties will elevate your stay and help you unwind.
What makes Hocking Hills special?
Hocking Hills State Park is renowned for its sandstone gorges, waterfalls and wild beauty. Trails such as Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls and Ash Cave weave through rock formations and whispering forests, and the Grandma Gatewood Trail links them together. Only a ninety‑minute drive from Columbus, the park feels remote thanks to its dark skies, limited development and conservation efforts. Visitors come for the hiking but stay for the stargazing, wildlife and tranquil atmosphere. The region’s combination of natural wonders and accessibility makes it a favorite for short getaways and extended retreats.
Why choose a cabin with a hot tub?
After exploring cliffs and caves, your muscles will welcome the soothing embrace of a hot tub. Warm water increases blood flow, loosens tense muscles and can relieve aches. Submerging yourself in a tub also calms the nervous system and helps you de‑stress, which makes it easier to sleep. I love soaking outside as the sun sets; the contrast between cool evening air and hot jets eases away any soreness from the trail. Hot tubs also add an element of luxury—there’s something indulgent about having your own private spa perched on a deck overlooking the woods.
To make the most of your stay, look for properties that keep tubs well‑maintained and positioned for privacy. Some cabins offer covered porches so you can soak in rain or snow, while others include adjacent fire pits or grills. If you’re visiting with children or people who might not use the tub, choose cabins with separate seating areas so everyone can relax.
Our top picks for Hocking Hills cabins with a hot tub
Below are cabins and lodges that consistently earn five‑star reviews and provide outstanding amenities. Each property includes a private hot tub and offers something unique—seclusion, luxury, on‑site trails or stunning views. When evaluating these options I considered location, privacy, amenities and guest reviews.
Notestone Reserve cabins
At Notestone Reserve, we curate a collection of upscale cabins tucked away in the Hocking Hills. Each unit is designed with privacy in mind; they sit on wooded lots far from the road and feature decks with forest views. Our cabins come with full kitchens, plush bedding and private outdoor hot tubs, perfect for ending a day of exploration. Many guests mention how refreshing it is to soak under the stars while listening to crickets and owls. We also offer packages that include in‑cabin massages and chef‑prepared meals, making it easy to surprise your partner or pamper yourself. When booking with us, you can count on attentive service and immaculate accommodations. For even more ideas on planning your stay, explore our guides for Hocking Hills cabins with a hot tub and Hocking Hills getaways.
Cherry Ridge Retreat
Cherry Ridge Retreat operates eight luxury cabins set on more than 140 acres of private forest. The property lies only a few miles from Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls and Conkel’s Hollow. Each cabin sits nearly a mile from the road, ensuring absolute privacy and uninterrupted views. Guests can fish in on‑site ponds, stroll along miles of groomed trails and relax in waterside gazebos. The Retreat has earned five‑star ratings for over a decade thanks to its friendly staff, spa‑like atmosphere and commitment to sustainability. Amenities include private hot tubs, EV‑charging stations, outdoor fire pits and optional in‑cabin massage services. Couples often choose the Observatory cabin for its two‑sided fireplace and stargazing platform, while families love the larger Lake House, which sleeps up to eight and features a hot tub and pond views. Cherry Ridge has even been nominated for sustainability awards, making it an excellent choice for eco‑conscious travelers.
Bourbon Ridge Retreat
Bourbon Ridge Retreat offers six luxury cabins and five lodges spread across 202 acres in the heart of Hocking Hills. The retreat blends refined interiors with rustic surroundings; many units feature stone fireplaces, gourmet kitchens, theater rooms and expansive decks. Cabins and lodges are designed for both couples and large groups—the smallest sleeps two, while the Maker’s Lodge accommodates up to twenty guests. What sets Bourbon Ridge apart are its on‑site amenities: inground swimming pools, oversized hot tubs and fire pits create a resort‑like experience. It’s also minutes from natural attractions like Old Man’s Cave, Cantwell Cliffs and Ash Cave. Reviews praise the spacious layouts, immaculate grounds and helpful staff; one guest noted that the pool and hot tub were perfect for unwinding after corporate sessions. If you’re planning a family reunion or team retreat and want luxury plus proximity to trails, Bourbon Ridge is worth considering.
Cabins by the Caves – Aurora Pine Cabin
Cabins by the Caves manages a variety of properties, but the Aurora Pine Cabin stands out for romantic getaways. Designed for two guests, it offers a cozy queen bedroom, a well‑equipped kitchen and a stone wood‑burning fireplace. The highlight is its private covered hot tub on a stone patio with a built‑in charcoal grill. After hiking, you can soak under a roof while listening to rain or watching the sunset. The cabin also provides a covered porch with a dining table, an outdoor fire pit for stargazing and complimentary Starlink Wi‑Fi. Rates start around $225 per night and vary with season; AAA and military discounts are available. If you’re seeking an intimate escape with all the comforts of home, Aurora Pine is a charming option.
Unique stays: container homes, cottages and treehouses
For travelers who crave something different, Hocking Hills offers an array of distinctive properties. The Lily Pad is a modern cabin set on thirteen acres just two miles from Old Man’s Cave. It features all the upgrades you’d expect plus an outdoor swing bed and hot tub—ideal for sipping wine after a day on the trails. Dunlap Hollow combines rustic charm with modern comforts; built in the 1920s and surrounded by sandstone cliffs, it has been remodeled to include a hot tub and is perfect for couples or small families. The Ivy Cottage surprises guests with its black metal exterior and white oak beams. Designed for groups of up to six, it has a spacious porch and a back deck with a hot tub, making sunsets and stargazing unforgettable. Tiny house enthusiasts should consider the Blue Bird Tiny House—a compact yet cleverly designed home with outdoor seating, a hot tub, fire pit and gas grill. And for a truly unforgettable experience, The Cave House at Dunlap Hollow provides 1,500 square feet of underground living with a full kitchen, pool table, private hiking trails and a hot tub.
Table 1 – Comparison of top cabin rentals
| Cabin or lodge | Location & setting | Hot tub details | Unique perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Notestone Reserve cabins | Wooded sites near Hocking Hills, private lots | Outdoor hot tubs on decks, many covered | In‑cabin massages, chef packages, personalized service |
| Cherry Ridge Retreat | 148‑acre private forest near Old Man’s Cave | Private hot tubs at each cabin | Groomed trails, fishing ponds, waterside gazebos, sustainability focus |
| Bourbon Ridge Retreat | 202‑acre estate with cabins and lodges | Large hot tubs and inground pools | Theater rooms, gourmet kitchens, near multiple state park attractions |
| Aurora Pine Cabin (Cabins by the Caves) | Secluded site for two guests | Covered patio with private hot tub and grill | Stone fireplace, Starlink Wi‑Fi, EV charging |
| The Lily Pad | 13‑acre property two miles from Old Man’s Cave | Outdoor hot tub with swing bed nearby | Modern design, romantic setting |
| Dunlap Hollow | Cottage surrounded by sandstone cliffs | Hot tub next to remodeled 1920s cabin | Private hiking trails, cliff views |
| Ivy Cottage | Modern barn‑style cottage for up to six | Back‑deck hot tub | Large porch, fire pit |
| Blue Bird Tiny House | Tiny home near Lake Logan | Hot tub on deck | Fire pit, gas grill, clever design |
| Cave House | 1,500 sq ft cave dwelling | Hot tub on patio | Pool table, private hiking trails, unique underground experience |
Planning your Hocking Hills getaway
Seasonality and bookings – Hocking Hills experiences four distinct seasons, and each offers a different ambiance. Spring brings wildflowers and waterfalls, while summer offers lush greenery and warm weather perfect for swimming at nearby lakes. Autumn draws crowds with its vibrant foliage and crisp air; plan early if you want a cabin during peak leaf‑peeping weeks. Winter is quieter and ideal for cozy nights by the fire. Many cabins require a minimum stay of two nights and have higher rates on weekends and holidays. Book well ahead, especially for unique properties like the BoxHop or Cave House, which often have waitlists.
Activities and attractions – Beyond soaking in your hot tub, explore the extensive trail network. Old Man’s Cave offers moderate hikes with features such as Devil’s Bathtub, A‑Frame Bridge and waterfalls. Cedar Falls presents a shorter trail to a picturesque waterfall, and Ash Cave’s gorge and rim trails provide accessible options. For a longer trek, tackle sections of the Grandma Gatewood Trail, which connects Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls and Ash Cave. Mountain biking trails and rock formations like Cantwell Cliffs add more adventure to your itinerary. After dark, head to the John Glenn Astronomy Park or Lake Logan to see the Milky Way and count shooting stars—our article Is Hocking Hills Good for Stargazing? Is $60 a month a lot for a gym membership? provides tips on the best times and locations for stargazing.
Wellness and relaxation – A cabin getaway is an opportunity to disconnect. Spend mornings sipping coffee on the deck, afternoons exploring waterfalls and evenings soaking in your hot tub. You might also schedule a massage, read by the fireplace or practice yoga beside a pond. Remember to pack groceries and supplies—many cabins are remote, and the nearest store may be a twenty‑minute drive. If you’d rather leave the cooking to someone else, consider ordering a chef‑prepared meal or exploring local restaurants in Logan and nearby towns.
Final thoughts
Hocking Hills is a landscape of contrasts: rugged cliffs and gentle streams, dark skies and sun‑dappled trails, wild nature and refined lodgings. Choosing a cabin with a hot tub adds a layer of comfort that transforms a simple stay into a rejuvenating retreat. From the secluded luxury of Notestone Reserve to the eco‑friendly opulence of Cherry Ridge Retreat, the rustic charm of Aurora Pine and the novelty of a container home or cave house, there’s a perfect cabin waiting for you. As someone who has explored these woods in every season, I can attest that the combination of adventure and relaxation is what makes this region special. Plan ahead, embrace the quiet and let the soothing bubbles of your hot tub melt away the stresses of daily life.
