There’s a different kind of quiet in Ohio’s Hocking Hills—less absence of noise, more presence of place. Here, seclusion isn’t synonymous with remoteness; it’s a kind of intimacy—with ridgelines, with woodland edges, with time itself. Neighborhoods like Haydenville, where old brick houses still carry the soot of their industrial past, or Hide-A-Way Hills, a private lakeside retreat nestled in the folds of Rushcreek Township, aren’t far from the map, but they feel far from the grid.
These tucked-away corners don’t advertise themselves. You arrive by way of winding roads that dip and rise like a breath, through hemlock-shadowed ravines and sandstone corridors. The Hocking Hills region gets its name from the Hockhocking River, once called “Hokhochen,” or “bottle-shaped,” by the Shawnee—likely referencing the river’s bends. It’s a fitting metaphor for the area itself: an elegantly contained world of contours and shelter.
This is a place where towns don’t clamor for your attention. They offer it. One cabin, one post office, one gravel driveway at a time. The land here doesn’t reveal itself all at once, but it rewards patience—and proximity.
Below, 10 neighborhoods where the mail takes its time, the trails go deep, and the silence has substance.
10. Haydenville – Green Township
Haydenville, a small unincorporated community in Green Township, is known for its historical charm and quiet setting. With fewer than 400 people, it remains one of the most secluded locations in Hocking Hills.
Once a thriving company town for the Haydenville Mining and Manufacturing Company, its brick buildings and remnants of industry still stand as reminders of its past. Today, visitors can explore the unique architecture, including homes constructed with multi-colored bricks and ceramic tile.
The town is close to several natural attractions, such as Hocking Hills State Park and Old Man’s Cave, offering hiking, camping, and sightseeing opportunities. Its isolation, combined with its rich history, makes Haydenville a fascinating yet peaceful retreat.
Where is Haydenville?
Haydenville is located in the southeastern part of Hocking County, just a few miles south of Logan along U.S. Route 33. Dense forests and rolling hills surround the town, adding to its feeling of seclusion.
Despite being relatively close to Logan, its tucked-away location ensures a quiet and private atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. To reach Haydenville, travelers can take U.S. Route 33 and exit onto Haydenville Road, leading directly into the heart of this historic enclave.
9. Hide-A-Way Hills – Rushcreek Township
Hide-A-Way Hills is a private, gated community in Rushcreek Township, offering an exclusive retreat for those seeking tranquility in nature. With an estimated population of around 1,500 residents, it is a secluded haven with a strong sense of community.
The neighborhood boasts numerous amenities, including a golf course, lakes for boating and fishing, hiking trails, and a clubhouse for social gatherings. Its private status enhances its seclusion, as only residents and their guests can access the area.
The main industries revolve around tourism and vacation rentals, as many properties serve as second homes or retreats for visitors looking to escape city life. The dense woodlands surrounding the community create a peaceful and undisturbed environment, making it an ideal getaway.
Where is Hide-A-Way Hills?
Hide-A-Way Hills is located in northern Hocking County, near the border with Fairfield County, providing a secluded yet accessible retreat. It is nestled among forests and rolling hills, ensuring privacy for its residents.
The main entrance is off State Route 664, with security measures to maintain the community’s exclusivity. Visitors must either be residents or be invited to enter, making it one of the region’s most private and peaceful areas.
8. Creekside Meadows – Ward Township
At number eight, Creekside Meadows in Ward Township offers a tranquil oasis for those seeking a secluded lifestyle surrounded by nature’s beauty. The area is characterized by expansive meadows and properties that border serene creeks, offering picturesque views right from your doorstep.
With a small, dispersed population, residents enjoy a quiet community where privacy is paramount. Outdoor activities abound, from fishing in the local creeks to exploring the open fields and nearby woodlands.
The gentle sounds of flowing water and the rustle of wildlife make Creekside Meadows a perfect retreat for relaxation. Hidden trails and undiscovered picnic spots add to the allure of this hidden area, making it a true gem in the Hocking Hills.
Where is Creekside Meadows?
Creekside Meadows is in Ward Township, nestled in the northeastern part of Hocking County. The area is accessed via quiet country roads, surrounded by rolling landscapes and lush greenery.
To reach Creekside Meadows, travelers can take State Route 664 north from Logan, then turn onto one of the rural roads leading into the heart of the township. Its distance from bustling towns ensures a peaceful environment, making it an ideal location for those looking to escape the noise of urban life.
7. Buck Run Road Community – Starr Township
Seventh on our countdown is the Buck Run Road Community in Starr Township, a quiet neighborhood where nature and serenity coexist harmoniously. The sizable properties here are surrounded by lush forests, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts who often spot deer, foxes, and various bird species.
With a small community of residents, the area maintains a peaceful atmosphere ideal for those seeking solace. Outdoor recreation is plentiful, with nearby trails for hiking and the opportunity for hunting and fishing in designated areas.
The community’s proximity to natural attractions like the Hocking State Forest adds to its appeal. Hidden caves and less-traveled paths provide endless exploration for the adventurous spirit.
Where is Buck Run Road Community?
Located in Starr Township, the Buck Run Road Community lies in the southeastern part of Hocking County. The area is accessible via State Route 56 east from Logan, then turning onto Buck Run Road, which winds through scenic woodlands.
The geography features rolling hills and dense forests typical of the Hocking Hills region. Its tucked-away location in the heart of the Hocking Hills ensures that residents and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility the area is renowned for.
6. South Bloomingville – Benton Township
South Bloomingville, an unincorporated community in Benton Township, is a charming and remote settlement surrounded by Hocking Hills’ stunning landscapes. Home to fewer than 300 people, this small town offers a quiet lifestyle with easy access to outdoor recreation.
The area is known for its proximity to attractions like Conkle’s Hollow and Rock House, both popular destinations for hikers and nature lovers. Small businesses and local farms drive the local economy, with tourism also playing a significant role.
Unlike larger towns, South Bloomingville lacks major commercial developments, preserving its rustic and untouched appeal. Its isolation and close-knit community make it an ideal location for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
Where is South Bloomingville?
South Bloomingville is in the southwestern part of Hocking County, surrounded by state parks and dense forests. The nearest major town is Logan, but the winding roads and thick woodlands create a sense of being far removed from busy urban areas.
The town can be accessed via State Route 56, which connects it to other parts of the Hocking Hills region. Its distance from highways and larger cities ensures that South Bloomingville remains a quiet and secluded community.
5. Rockbridge – Good Hope Township
Rockbridge, a small census-designated place in Good Hope Township, is known for its natural beauty and quiet atmosphere. The town has fewer than 400 people, making it a peaceful retreat for those who value solitude.
Rockbridge gets its name from the Rockbridge State Nature Preserve, which features one of Ohio’s largest natural rock bridges. Outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the preserve are popular pastimes.
Small businesses cater to tourists, with cabins, campgrounds, and local craft shops making up the main industries. Its location within the Hocking Hills ensures that Rockbridge remains an uncrowded and scenic place to live or visit.
Where is Rockbridge?
Rockbridge is located in northwestern Hocking County, just off U.S. Route 33, making it one of the more accessible secluded areas in the region. Despite its proximity to the highway, the surrounding forests and hilly terrain provide a sense of seclusion.
The town is a gateway to the Hocking Hills region, with many natural attractions nearby. Travelers can reach Rockbridge by taking U.S. Route 33 and exiting onto Rockbridge Road, which leads into the small community.
4. Buena Vista Road Vicinity – Benton Township
The Buena Vista Road Vicinity in Benton Township is coming in at number four, a secluded neighborhood that offers the perfect blend of privacy and natural beauty. Large properties are nestled among forested landscapes, providing residents with their slice of the Hocking Hills’ tranquility.
The small community fosters a friendly atmosphere where neighbors appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife observation, and photography are popular due to the abundant natural scenery.
Nearby attractions like hidden waterfalls and scenic overlooks are treasures to be explored. The unspoiled area makes it a haven for those looking to connect with nature.
Where is Buena Vista Road?
Situated in Benton Township, the Buena Vista Road Vicinity lies in the southeastern corner of Hocking County. Visitors travel along State Route 374 to reach this secluded neighborhood, then turn onto Buena Vista Road. The area is characterized by its hilly terrain and dense woodlands, typical of the Hocking Hills region.
Its location away from the main tourist spots ensures a quiet environment, allowing residents and visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serenity of the surroundings.
3. Laurelville – Salt Creek Township
Laurelville, a small village in Salt Creek Township, is a peaceful and charming community in the heart of the Hocking Hills region. With just under 500 residents, it offers a quiet, slow-paced lifestyle surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests.
Despite its small size, Laurelville is a gateway to many outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nearby attractions like Tar Hollow State Park. The local economy relies on small businesses, family-owned shops, and tourism, as visitors often stop by for supplies before heading deeper into the hills.
The village’s seclusion comes from its distance from major highways and the enveloping woodland that keeps it hidden from the bustling world. Laurelville delivers both for those seeking a blend of rural charm and natural beauty.
Where is Laurelville?
Laurelville is located in Salt Creek Township, at the northern edge of Hocking County. The village is tucked away along State Route 56, winding through hills and forests that add to its isolation. The closest larger town is Logan, but the route to Laurelville feels like a journey into a more remote, untouched part of Ohio.
Travelers can reach the village by taking State Route 56 from either Logan or Circleville, with the landscape becoming more rugged and scenic the closer you get. This hidden location makes Laurelville a true escape into nature.
2. Big Pine Road Community – South Bloomingville
The runner-up on our list is the Big Pine Road Community near South Bloomingville, a sparse community known for its seclusion and stunning scenic views. Nestled among forested hills, this area offers residents breathtaking vistas right from their backyards.
The community is small but tight-knit, with a shared appreciation for the quiet and beauty that surrounds them. Popular activities include hiking to the nearby rock formations and caves that dot the landscape.
The area’s proximity to the Hocking Hills State Park means endless opportunities for adventure. Hidden spots like secret overlooks and lesser-known trails add to the charm and allure of this secluded community.
Where is Big Pine Road?
Located near the village of South Bloomingville, the Big Pine Road Community is situated in the southwestern part of Hocking County. Travelers can reach it by taking State Route 664 south from Logan, then turning onto Big Pine Road, which winds through the heart of the Hocking Hills.
The area’s forested hills and winding roads contribute to its secluded feel. Despite being far from urban centers, the community enjoys access to some of the region’s most remarkable natural attractions.
1. Cantwell Cliffs Area – Rockbridge
Topping our list at number one is the Cantwell Cliffs Area near Rockbridge, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and seclusion. This neighborhood is situated near one of the most remote areas of the Hocking Hills, offering large wooded lots amid rugged terrain.
Residents here enjoy unparalleled privacy and a front-row seat to some of Ohio’s most breathtaking landscapes. The small community embraces a lifestyle deeply connected to nature, with hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the cliffs being favorite pastimes.
The area’s approximate population is minimal, and preserving the tranquility and unspoiled environment makes it so special. Hidden caves and lesser-known trails provide endless opportunities for adventure, making the Cantwell Cliffs Area a true gem for nature lovers.
Where is Cantwell Cliffs Area?
The Cantwell Cliffs Area is located near Rockbridge, in the northwestern part of Hocking County. Accessed via State Route 374, the area is nestled deep within the Hocking Hills State Park region. Its geography is defined by cliffs, gorges, and dense forests, offering some of the most dramatic scenery in the area.
Visitors can reach it by taking U.S. Route 33 to State Route 374, with the journey offering spectacular views. The remote location and rugged terrain contribute to the area’s seclusion, making it the perfect escape for those seeking solitude among nature.
