12 Must-Visit State Parks Across Indiana—Your Complete Guide

One thing people might not know about Indiana? It's home to a lot of state parks—more than 20, in fact. Each one is amazing, with hiking trails, stunning lookouts, and serene nature, but some simply stand out from the rest.

With that, here are our 12 favorite state parks in Indiana worth visiting. So, pack your gear, load up the car, bring your four-legged friends (to the dog-friendly ones!), and get ready for some super fun and adventurous times in the Hoosier State.

1. Brown County State Park - Nashville

Brown County State Park in Nashville is the largest state park in Indiana. The area is nicknamed "The Little Smokies" because it resembles the Great Smoky Mountains, with nearly 16,000 acres of expansive and rugged terrain. Go hiking, horseback riding, camping, or climb the 90-foot Fire Tower for breathtaking views. Plus, the park provides a motorized wheelchair for folks who need accessibility aids.

2. Charlestown State Park - Charlestown

Did you know Charlestown State Park was built over the top of an Indiana Army Ammunition Plant? Beyond being a historical place, it's also quite beautiful, with scenic vistas of the Fourteenmile Creek Valley and the Ohio River. You can even walk a bridge to Rose Island, where you'll find these cool metal and concrete arches in the woods. Most trails are wheelchair accessible and rated easy.

3. Clifty Falls State Park - Madison

Clifty Falls State Park in Madison is home to one of the few waterfalls in Indiana. It's also home to a canyon that only gets daylight during the middle of the day. Winter and spring seem to be the best times to witness the rushing waters. You can also gaze upon Clifty Creek's stony bed, which is home to ancient fossil remnants. It's one of the most unique state parks in Indiana.

4. Lincoln State Park - Lincoln City

Lincoln State Park in Lincoln City was the last state park Richard Lieber, founder of Indiana state parks, established. And it's absolutely beautiful. Once you pass the brick sign at the front, you'll enter an enchanting piece of land teeming with natural life. Visit Abraham Lincoln's childhood home or walk 10 miles of hiking trail—there are even three dog-friendly ones.

5. McCormick's Creek State Park - Spencer

Did you know McCormick's Creek was the very first state park in Indiana? Even though it's the oldest, it's still one of the prettiest in the state. Follow the path along the babbling stream, admire the wildflowers (if you're there in the spring), climb the fire tower for ultimate views, or take a rest in the lobby of Canyon Inn, which is open to all park visitors. Just note: the campgrounds are closed for renovations.

6. Mounds State Park - Anderson

Mounds State Park in Anderson is one of the more lush and naturally abundant parks. The trails are overflowing with tree canopies, ferns, and other greenery, making it the perfect shady place to walk in the hot summer months. It also has 10 unique structures built by ancient Indigenous people known as the Adena-Hopewell people. Learn all about them at the park's visitor center.

7. O'Bannon Woods State Park - Corydon

This beautiful park was originally known as the Wyandotte Woods State Recreation Area. It borders the Ohio River and sits in the middle of the Harrison Crawford State Forest, meaning there are lots of trees and plants here. Enjoy several hiking, biking, and horse riding trails, campgrounds, and historical buildings from the 1800s that you can explore. There are even Wyandotte Cave Tours that you can take!

8. Pokagon State Park - Angola

Pokagon State Park has a strong history and connection to the Potawatomi Indigenous people. The Potawatomi Inn, located within the park, pays homage to this people group and is now one of the more popular resorts and conference locations in the Midwest. The park also has several stunning lakes, which freeze in the winter and provide ample ice-fishing opportunities. The hiking trails are moderate level, but there are some more wheelchair accessible options.

9. Fort Harrison State Park - Indianapolis

Sometimes known as just Fort Ben, this park is located in Indianapolis and is filled with all sorts of gorgeous terrain. Winter is an especially great time to go, as the park has one of the biggest and most famous sledding hills! The 1,700-acre park also features hiking trails, fishing access, and canoe launches—you'll never get bored here. There's even a dog park for Fido.

10. Indiana Dunes State Park - Chesterton

Indiana Dunes State Park was one of the first places Richard Lieber visited and considered when creating the parks system. And it's clear to see why! The view of Lake Michigan along the rolling dunes makes you feel like you've been transported to a beach getaway. To really get into the beachy spirit, visit the Dunes Pavilion to enjoy a meal, drink at the rooftop bar, or buy beach supplies.

11. Shades State Park - Waveland

Shades State Park stretches over three counties—Montgomery, Parke, and Fountain—and is a favorite among canoers and hikers. The expansive park features sandstone cliffs that overlook Sugar Creek, making it the perfect atmosphere for your adventure. Shades is also home to some of the darkest skies in the state: stargazing parties are a regular park-sponsored event.

12. Turkey Run State Park - Marshall

Turkey Run is one of the more beautiful state parks in Indiana. Nestled in the heart of Parke County, this park is home to an awe-inspiring suspension bridge, sandstone ravines, and the marvelous Sugar Creek. You can also visit the Colonel Richard Lieber Cabin, which highlights the achievements of the founder of the state park system. There's also a playground, swimming pool, and other accessible amenities.

There you have it: 12 of the most beautiful state parks in Indiana. If you're a nature lover, you have to make trips to these sites—you'll feel so accomplished hiking their trails, canoeing in their waterways, and supporting the Hoosier State's park system. To help plan out your trips, use Only In Your State's itinerary planner for nearby lodging and dining suggestions.