Pros & cons
PROS
- Free to use
- Static targets plus a wooded 3D course
CONS
- No rentals—bring your own gear
- Mosquitoes can be bad on the 3D course
Overview
If you like flinging arrows, this is a fun detour. The range is free, open year‑round from daylight to dark, and combines a flat practice area with five static targets and a separate woodland course dotted with 3D animal targets. It’s a low‑key spot that’s especially handy if you’re staying near the main campground.
What You’ll Experience
Start at the practice lane to sight in—then step onto the game‑style loop through the woods where targets appear at varied distances and elevations. Expect a mix of uphill, downhill, and straight shots that keep things interesting without feeling punishing.
What to Bring (and What Not to Expect)
Plan to bring your own bow and arrows; there are no rentals mentioned for this range. On‑site specifics like water and restrooms aren’t listed, so come self‑sufficient. If you need full facilities, the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center typically keeps daytime hours, but those can vary.
Tips for a Better Session
Bugs love the shady woods—pack repellent, especially in warm months. Cell service around the park can be spotty, so download directions or an offline map before you head out. Follow any posted rules at the range.
Best Time to Visit
Aim for weekday mornings or late afternoon light if you want the course to yourself; weekends and holidays see more overall park traffic. The range is daylight‑only, so plan your session accordingly.
Is It Worth Your Time?
If archery is your thing, this is a solid, no‑frills perk of the park. If not, you can skip it without FOMO and spend your daylight on the big‑name hikes.
Where it is
39.4387, -82.5362Tips for Archery Range
- 01Bring your own bow and arrows—no rentals here.
- 02Pack bug spray for the wooded 3D course, especially in summer.
- 03Plan for daylight‑only hours; the range closes at dark.
- 04Download maps or directions ahead of time due to spotty cell service.
- 05For flush restrooms, use Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center during typical daytime hours.
Amenities
Near Archery Range
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awaySherman Cabins at Hocking Hills State ParkBare-bones cabins with AC near Old Man’s CaveLodging · Parking
0.1 mi awayHocking Hills State Park CampgroundFull‑service basecamp with trails, pool, and easy access to iconsCampground · Restroom
0.2 mi awayWhispering Cave FallsSeasonal waterfall pouring from a colossal horseshoe-shaped caveTrailhead · Parking
0.2 mi awayWhispering Cave OverlookSigned viewpoint above the gorge on the Whispering Cave trailScenic Viewpoint
0.4 mi awayWhispering Cave TrailA one-way loop to a vast recess cave and a swinging bridge.Moderate · 5 mi · 2.5 hr
0.4 mi awayWhispering Cave LoopBig recess cave, swinging bridge, and a one-way 5-mile adventure.Moderate · 5 mi · 2.5 hr
0.4 mi awayGrandma Gatewood TrailWaterfalls and recess caves on a 6 mile blue blazed traverseModerate · 6 mi · 4 hr
0.4 mi awayBroken Rock Falls TrailShort, stair-steep detour to a tucked-away waterfall alcoveModerate · 1 mi · 45 min
