Lets talk about Best the Hocking Hills Locations. When planning your family photo session, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is the location. It sets the tone for the entire experience—whether you’re going for adventurous and wild, soft and nostalgic, or simply relaxed and joyful. For families looking for something truly special, family photos in Hocking Hills offer the perfect combination of natural beauty and timeless charm.
Hi, I’m Beth, a family photographer based near Athens, Ohio—and I absolutely love helping families find the perfect place to capture their story. Whether it’s a quiet wooded trail, a scenic overlook, or a hidden waterfall, Hocking Hills has a little magic for every family.
Why Location Matters
Your family is unique—and your photo session should reflect that. Choosing the right spot helps everyone feel comfortable and connected. When you’re in a place that feels special or awe-inspiring, that emotion shows in the photos. It’s the difference between stiff smiles and genuine laughter.
Hocking Hills offers just that. With its towering cliffs, fern-lined trails, caves, and streams, it’s a playground of possibility. And the best part? Each season brings a different mood: golden leaves in fall, soft greens in spring, misty mornings in summer, and cozy, bundled-up charm in winter.
The best Hocking Hills Locations
Ash Cave, Hocking Hills
Ash Cave in Hocking Hills provides a dramatic backdrop for family photos, with its massive recessed cave and seasonal waterfall. The wide sandy floor offers plenty of space for both posed and candid shots, making it ideal for families. Surrounded by the cave’s natural beauty, your photos will feel both unique and unforgettable. This is great for ages 0-99 and an easy walk in and out.
Cedar Falls, Hocking Hills
Cedar Falls in Hocking Hills is a beautiful setting for family photos, featuring the largest waterfall in the park surrounded by towering hemlocks. The mix of flowing water and natural stone creates a peaceful and timeless backdrop. It’s a perfect place to capture both playful moments and classic portraits of your family. Recommended for families with young children (2+)
Old Mans Cave, Hocking Hills
Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills is the most popular location in Hocking Hills. Making it both a great place (in non peak times) and a very busy location (in peak season). There are waterfalls, stone bridges, and amazing rock formations. The variety of scenic spots allows for both playful, candid moments and timeless portraits. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the gorge, your family photos will feel both adventurous and unforgettable..
Conkles Hollow, Conkles Hollow Nature Preserve
Conkle’s Hollow in Hocking Hills offers a backdrop for family photos, with its towering cliffs, lush greenery, and winding trails. The mix of dramatic rock formations and peaceful wooded areas creates both adventurous and intimate settings for capturing memories. It’s the perfect spot to highlight the beauty of nature while showcasing the closeness of your family (not advised for children under 8 or so).
Athens Has Its Own Hidden Gems
Just a short drive from Hocking Hills, Athens offers charming spots of its own. Think open meadows, historic brick paths, and golden hour light filtering through tall trees. Sometimes, families even choose to combine both—starting in the woods and ending in town for an ice cream stop or a stroll downtown.
Need Help Choosing?
I work closely with every family to guide them through the location process. I know the trails that are stroller-friendly, the cliffs that are perfect for older kids who love to climb, and the quiet spots where toddlers can run free. Whether you want a full-on hike or something more relaxed, I’ve got you.
Ready to Plan Your Family Photos in Hocking Hills?
If you’re dreaming about family photos in Hocking Hills, I’d love to help you plan something beautiful, meaningful, and you. Click here to get in touch and start the conversation. Let’s choose a location that feels just right and captures the heart of your family.
