HANGING ROCK - For people coming into Lawrence County from Scioto County, their first encounter is with the village of Hanging Rock.

Be it doughnuts, churches or friendly people, Hanging Rock visitors can find hospitality just a short turn off the highway.

"There is no better place on earth, I don't think," Mayor Chris Davidson said. " I can't think of any place else on earth I would rather live. The people are great. It's like one big family."

Davidson said some people who come to Hanging Rock are actually looking for wild excitement: the Hanging Rock Recreational Site offers trails for off-road vehicles.

Davidson pointed out the Hanging Rock facility is considered one of the finest in the country.

Rebecca Miller works at the Red Brick Oven, the village's newest business. The bakery opened in December 2003. "I love it," she said. "We've gotten great acceptance from the village itself and from the residents. We've got people who come in and eat and chat and have accepted us as a little part of home."