Our team here at Book Hocking is focused on going above and beyond for every guest, every single time.
We’re deeply guest-centric, with a commitment to creating exceptional experiences that consistently exceed expectations. Whether it’s a family’s once-a-year getaway or a couple’s weekend escape, we understand how important those moments are—and we’re honored to play a part in them.
From the moment a guest arrives at one of our properties, we aim to wow them with thoughtful touches, clean and beautiful spaces, and a level of service that truly sets us apart. Hosting is more than just our business—it’s a privilege we take seriously.
Jake Ryan – Founder & CEO
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, I come from a background in video production and marketing, where I spent years building and eventually selling a successful business. After stepping away from the marketing world, I shifted my focus toward something that had always drawn me in—Hocking Hills. In 2021, I began investing in the area, falling in love not only with the real estate side of things but with the region itself. What started as a personal investment quickly turned into a passion for the short-term rental market.
After seeing how well our own properties performed, I launched a management company to help others achieve the same success. Fast forward two years, and that company—Book Hocking—now manages close to 200 properties. It’s been an incredible journey, and what makes it even more rewarding is the team we’ve built and the clients we get to work alongside. Every day is an opportunity to serve guests in a meaningful way and share Hocking Hills with others.
Ashton Onesko – Founder & Head of New Construction
I was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. Real estate has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, thanks to my family’s deep roots in the industry. As one of the founders of Book Hocking, I now lead our new construction division.
What I love most is taking a blank piece of land and turning it into something truly special—a beautiful cabin where people can relax, recharge, and make memories. It’s incredibly rewarding to bring those spaces to life and offer guests unique, unforgettable experiences.
Being part of Book Hocking is something I’m genuinely proud of. The energy here is contagious—everyone’s excited to show up and do their best every day, and that makes this work even more meaningful.
Gary Berquist – Executive Vice President
Grew up in Michigan and now call Indiana home. Avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting and fishing.
Over 40 years in the hospitality industry. Operated several properties from limited service hotels to full luxury resort. Owned a restaurant, hotel, campground and management company.
Delivering the guest experience and creating a service culture is my passion. Creating this culture to Book Hocking and working with our team is a pleasure. Sharing my experience and knowledge with our group enables me to watch them grow not only in their career but also in their personal life.
A family man that puts family above everything else and enjoys traveling with my wife.
James Burch – Director of Operations
I was born and started my hospitality Journey in Kansas City, Missouri. From there over the past 6 years I have grown many STR operations across the Midwest and Eastern United States.
Property Management empowers the highest level of leadership to achieve an ultimate goal; that is, to instill moral, success, and worth into each and every peer & owner. Achieving this, is the foundation to delivering a lasting experience to all of our guests.
I am thankful Book Hocking allows me to do this in such a rapidly expanding environment.
Stephanie Levy – Human Resources Director
I grew up in Cleveland and now reside in Columbus with my husband and three kids! My life experiences bring a different perspective to serving others.
I graduated from Ohio University then spent years traveling for my husband’s military career. Connecting back to the comfort of Ohio and building a community here is so meaningful for me. I am proud to say I have been with Book Hocking from the early stages of the business and have witnessed the amazing impact to guest services and the local community.
I love that guests come from states away and return time and time again, yet no day is the same for me, as an employee of Book Hocking! Being a part of a team that is focused on new design, approach and accommodations to enhance guest experience is so rewarding!
James Winch – Client & Strategy Manager
As the Client and Strategy Manager at Book Hocking, I bring a diverse background and a passion for travel and exploration to my role. Born in Georgia, I graduated from High School in Alaska and College in Maryland. Before moving to Athens, Ohio, I spent 15 years running offshore fishing charters out of Ocracoke, North Carolina and traveled as much as possible in the offseason. My life experience has instilled in me a commitment to creating exceptional experiences for both our clients and our guests.
Prior to joining Book Hocking, I was the General Manager of an upscale property in Hocking Hills for nine years. In that role, I gained valuable experience that I now apply to all aspects of my current position.
I thoroughly enjoy working with our clients and onboarding new cabins! I am grateful to be part of a team of coworkers who share the same goal: maximizing the guest experience and providing the best accommodations possible.
Rachel Gillian – Executive Assistant
My family and I moved to Hocking Hills in 2009, and I started in the cabin management industry in 2010. Over the years, I worked my way up from deep-cleaning cabins on call to becoming housekeeping manager, and eventually operations manager, where I oversaw cleaning, maintenance, bookkeeping, payroll, and taxes. Joining Book Hocking has been an incredibly positive experience in my career, and I’m grateful to work with a team that’s supportive, uplifting, and dedicated to providing the best possible vacation experience for our guests.
When visiting Hocking Hills, I highly recommend stopping by the nature centers at Lake Hope State Park or Hocking Hills State Park. They offer some fantastic educational programs, and I recently attended the maple syrup festivities at HHSP, which taught me about the history of syrup-making. Also, don’t miss their new raptor exhibit showcasing owls and other raptors!
For food, Starr Brick BBQ in Nelsonville is a must-try, and it’s conveniently close to local shops in the area. If you’re into arts and crafts, Homegrown on Main in Logan offers workshops by local artists and a great shop for handmade goods. For a sweet treat, make sure to stop by Treehouse Treats and Treasures on 664, which was featured in the Comfort Food Cruise. And if you’re in the mood for some family fun, Rempel’s Grove Adventure Golf is a great option. I can’t recommend their hot fudge sundae enough—it’s delicious!
Laura Dillon – Regional Operations Manager
I am happily married to my best friend, Chris and have been blessed with two wonderful children, Hunter and Samantha. My first introduction to real estate was a job at a title insurance agency. After a few years of hard work, this led to my first management position.
My experience there helped me to realize that I truly found my success by helping others grow and become successful. Throughout my years of raising children and loving every minute of it, I could not deny my calling to serve and answered that calling with a nursing degree from Hocking College. My nursing career was launched at Hocking Valley community Hospital and took me on a journey through an exciting and accomplished nursing career. During this time, I served as a staff RN, Director of Nursing for 5 surgical units, a CDI specialist with CCDS certification, DON of an assisted living community and an Executive Director while working towards my CEAL certification. Grateful for all of the accomplishments, I was longing for a change. That Change would bring me to Hocking Hill’s where I started a small business with my daughter providing short term rental turnover services.
This is where I would meet an ambitious young man with a fantastic vision for the future of Hocking Hills named Jake Ryan. I knew right away that I wanted to be a part of his team that would serve the community and tourists in the scenic wonder of Hocking Hills. As a member of the Book Hocking family, I am honored to spend my days with some incredible people who work hard to make the experience of Hocking Hills result in life long memories of a great stay. Reading reviews and hearing stories from happy families who enjoy the beauty of this place we call home brings joy to our hearts, feelings of accomplishment to our hard working staff and much pride to our management team! If you’re reading this from your cozy cabin, while watching our sparkling waters shine like diamonds, on a break from hiking in one of our scenic parks; while listening to the soothing sound of our waterfalls or on a Jeep ride taking pictures of the vibrant colors that take your breath away, we welcome you to the hills and we hope you enjoy your stay!
Andrew Stich – Maintenance Manager
I’m originally from Medina, Ohio, and in my spare time, I thoroughly enjoy rooting for Cleveland sports teams and spending time on the golf course. Before my current role, I managed both a brewery and a landscaping company, which gave me valuable experience in operations and customer service. What I love about property management is the ability to create memorable experiences for guests, offering them a place to relax and make lasting memories.
As a proud graduate of Ohio University, I have a special appreciation for the Hocking Hills area and take pride in seeing it grow. Sharing the beauty and charm of this region with visitors is incredibly rewarding, and I truly enjoy helping them experience all it has to offer. Being a part of Book Hocking allows me to combine my passion for property management with my love for the Hocking area, making it even more fulfilling to connect guests with unforgettable stays.
Grace McFann – Guest Relations Manager
As an Athens native, I grew up knowing how magical the Hocking Hills region is. I love welcoming folks from all walks of life and giving them a special experience each time they stay with us. It’s a joy to be the Guest Services Manager at Book Hocking because of the connection I get to make with our guests – my favorite part.
With over 13 years in guest relations experience and over 5 in management, the attentiveness to the guest experience has never been as paramount as it is with Book Hocking. We’re always willing to go the extra mile. I’m also a yoga and meditation instructor, pet mom of 3, and a naturally empathic person that loves to see people get the rest they deserve. I’m so lucky to help facilitate that in many areas of life! I always say, “you don’t need to earn rest, but you do deserve it.
Brett Beougher – Maintenance Field Manager
Want to Join Our Team?
We are always looking to add great people to our amazing team