Rock Run Preserve - Stout, OH
Rock Run Preserve – Dog-Friendly Hiking Near Stout, OH
Discover one of the most scenic dog-friendly hiking destinations in southern Ohio at Rock Run Preserve, conveniently located right off U.S. Highway 52 near Stout, OH. This preserve is part of the renowned Arc of Appalachia Nature Preserve system and features a well-marked loop trail that winds through beautiful forested bluffs, stunning rock outcrops, and blooming wildflowers in spring. The roughly three-mile trail is moderately challenging, with some uphill sections that reward hikers (and their four-legged friends) with gorgeous views of the Ohio River.
While Rock Run Preserve is not a traditional fenced dog park, it is an excellent choice for dog owners seeking pet-friendly trails in the area. The trail is well maintained, dogs are allowed (please keep them leashed and always pack out waste), and the preserve is family-friendly with kid-appropriate hikes and plenty of natural beauty to explore. There is a dedicated parking area for visitors, but be aware there are no restrooms or water stations, so plan accordingly. For those searching for a memorable outdoor adventure with their dog in Stout, OH, Rock Run Preserve should be at the top of the list!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs should be kept on leash at all times and owners are expected to pack out all waste.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced dog area at Rock Run Preserve.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? No, there are no restrooms at the preserve.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? The preserve does not have a wheelchair accessible entrance.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? The trails are family-friendly and suitable for kids, but there is no dedicated playground.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a small parking area off Highway 52, suitable for about 8 vehicles.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve features a well-marked hiking loop that is about three miles long.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, reviews note that the trails are well maintained and kept clear.
Reviews
Nice hike that leads up to interesting rock formations. It is mostly uphill but not difficult. The trail was clear and well taken care of.
Nice parking, a little difficult to see where the trail is at times. Decent amount of up hill hiking but not horrible. Good parking. Dog allowed but pack waste out.
This is a very nice hike on a bluff along the Ohio River. The trail is about three miles long and starts from a parking area along Highway 52. It ascends the bluff to some rock outcrops before looping around the backside. Most of the trail is forested and there are some nice wildflowers in spring.
I underestimated the difficulty of this hike. It was my third nature preserve of the day, and I was exhausted after this. The trail is well marked, but there is a lot of uphill hiking -FYI! I decided to come here for the wildflowers, and there were certainly some nice flowers once I got about halfway through the loop, but there are much easier hikes in the area if you’re only looking for flowers or a stroll through the woods. I’m glad I completed the entire hike though!
Rock Run Preserve is part of The Arc of Appalachia Nature Preserve system. Rock Run Preserve is a loop trail that has great views of the Ohio River and the surrounding area. It also goes through remnants of a quarry.The trail is moderate to difficult and has some steep parts to it.It is also well maintained and marked. The parking area is large enough for about 8 vehicles. There aren’t any restrooms.