10 Best State Parks in Indiana

You’ll find plenty of natural beauty in the Hoosier State. Indiana state parks are marked by their ravines, caves, wetlands, and unique opportunities to partake in activities like spelunking or going tobogganing. If you’re not sure where to get started, NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the 10 best state parks in Indiana.

1. Turkey Run State Park

Google rating: 4.8

2. Brown County State Park

Drive west of Indianapolis for a little over an hour and you’ll wind up at the top state park in the state, Turkey Run State Park. Venture across 14 miles of hiking trails; with the terrain ranging from easy to rugged, beginners and experts alike will find a picture trail for them. If you’re interested in camping, choose from 213 campsites with electrical setups, or cozy up in one of over 20 cabins. Sugar Creek runs through the park, so folks are encouraged to bring their kayaks and canoes to make the most of the water. For an educational visit, check out the Nature Center and its exhibits and displays.

Google rating: 4.8

Brown County State Park is the largest state park in Indiana. Sprawling almost 16,000 acres, Brown County State Park is marked by its hills and ravines, giving it the nickname the “Little Smokies.” Try one of the multiple hiking trails – some as short as 0.5 miles if you’re not in the mood for a long journey. Other activities you can enjoy at this park include mountain bike riding, horseback riding, fishing, and camping.

3. McCormick’s Creek State Park

Google rating: 4.8

McCormick’s Creek State Park is located approximately 15 miles northwest of Bloomington. Stretch your legs along more than 10 miles of hiking trails, which are equally beautiful in summer and winter. Go for a guided horseback ride over the trails or enjoy fishing in the White River. If you need to rest, relax at one of the shelters or picnic areas. McCormick’s Creek State Park also features a Nature Center and a Recreation Center, where visitors can enjoy a swimming pool, playgrounds, and sports fields.

4. Spring Mill State Park

Google rating: 4.8

If you’re looking for a unique state park, look no further than Spring Mill State Park. This southern state park encompasses multiple caves that you can explore, both by boat and on foot; book a guided tour to make the most of your spelunking! Spring Mill State Park is also home to the Virgil I “Gus” Grissom Memorial Museum, where you can learn about the Hoosier astronaut who was the second American man to go to space. Visit the restored Pioneer Village, a 19^th-century village with more than 20 historic buildings. The park offers plenty of traditional avenues for entertainment as well including hiking trails, swimming, boating, and camping. 

5. Shades State Park

Google rating: 4.8

Shades State Park resides 17 miles southwest of Crawfordsville. The sandstone cliffs surrounding the park make for picturesque views as you explore and hike through the park. Some of the hiking trails are more rugged than others, so do your research before committing to one. Shades State Park is popular amongst astronomy groups due to the park’s dark skies at night; late-night stargazers can obtain a permit to enter the park and admire the night sky.

6. Indiana Dunes State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Indiana Dunes State Park is located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The park earns its name from the towering sand dunes that surround the park. On sunny days, pick a spot along three miles of sandy beaches to soak up the sun and observe the blue water. Hit the hiking trails, go fishing, or take a dip – the beauty of Indiana Dunes State Park awaits you! 

7. Fort Harrison State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Fort Harrison State Park is a mere 30-minute drive northeast of Indianapolis. Learn about the history of the park and Fort Harrison at the Museum of 20th Century Warfare, which is located toward the south of the park. Further into the park, folks can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. In winter, enjoy sledding down the hills and skiing the trails. Fort Harrison State Park also features its own golf resort which includes a restaurant and gym.

8. Clifty Falls State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Clifty Falls State Park is truly a sight to behold. The beautiful canyons and waterfalls alone warrant a visit to the park. Be sure to bring your hiking boots, as the trails around the falls are often muddy and rigorous. The park is also notable for its fossil-lined creek; Clifty Falls State Park prohibits folks from taking any fossils home, but they add to the rugged aesthetic of the area. During summer, cool down at the onsite Clifty Falls State Park Outdoor Pool.

9. Pokagon State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Pokagon State Park offers a wealth of activities to its visitors. Relax on one of the two beaches along Lake James or work up a sweat along 13 miles of hiking trails. Folks can also embark on a guided horseback riding tour, play ball at one of the sports courts, or make the most of the lake by going boating and fishing. Perhaps the most exciting feature of the park is its toboggan run, where you can race down a 1,780-foot course during winter.

10. Potato Creek State Park

Google rating: 4.7

Potato Creek State Park rounds out our list of top state parks in Indiana. The park surrounds Worster Lake, a 327-acre body of water that’s perfect for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy over eight miles of trails. Potato Creek State Park has over 287 campsite options available, including sites with electrical hookups.

Thinking about moving to Indiana? Check out the best places to live and the process of building your own home in this midwestern state. When you’re ready, head over to NewHomeSource to find new listings and builders.

All parks have been ranked based on the criteria of popularity, distance from the closest major cities, violent crime, property crime, google ratings, and the number of google reviews.