Growing up in northern Indiana, I was blown away by the gorgeous views, hills, and hikes to be found in state parks a bit further south within the state. After purchasing our Indiana State Parks pass one year, we began checking out as many parks around the state that we could over the weekend. After visiting *almost* all of the state parks in Indiana, here are our three recommendations for the most variety and pleasure.
Turkey Run State Park
This was one of the first parks we visited in our tour of state parks, and we quickly realized how incredible Indiana’s natural spaces truly are! If you know us, you are likely not surprised we opt to hike the “5 mile challenge” loop when we visit. The trail is a great workout and you get to see all of the highlights! More information and maps on this trail and all of the trails can be found here: https://www.turkeyrunstatepark.com/turkey-run-state-park-trails/
If you are short on time or limited for any other reason, we highly recommend you trek out to the punch bowl for the “wow factor” it holds. If you are not short on time, we highly recommend you take a stop in the nearby Shades State Park (and/or camp there!).
Brown County State Park
I consider this park my favorite in Indiana. It is the park where the Rose Family all began: we were married here after cancelling our wedding due to the early days and shutdowns from COVID-19. There is not a bad trail in the state park, but we highly recommend checking out Hesitation Point. The park is known as “the little smokies” and Hesitation Point is the best display of this title. Brown County State Park is well-loved for mountain biking, and this is where we learned to mountain bike. There are several places to rent mountain bikes in the area, and it is completely worth it!
It would be a great choice also to extend your trip and spend some time in Nashville, Indiana. It has the charm, art, and vacation feeling I always appreciate.
O’Bannon Woods State Park
If you are from Indiana, this may be the one state park you may not have heard about. If you are an avid hiker in Indiana, you might know about the Knobstone Trail. This one takes 3-5 days of thru-hiking, requires a bit of planning, and is one-way — so you either have to park two cars or walk back on the same trail. BUT, did you know there is another thru-hike in southern Indiana that is a loop, has a handful of spots to camp, and can be done in 1-3 days? I am referring to the Adventure Hiking Trail in O’Bannon Woods State Park – a 25 mile loop with shelters and campgrounds along the way with over 4,400 ft in total elevation gain. We fell in love with this trail, it gives you that feel of thru-hiking, yet can be done in a weekend without taking any vacation time.
Check out more Rose Family favorites to explore while in Indiana here. Find out more hiking ideas here.
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