Indiana is home to over 80 state parks. Plan a visit and find hiking trails, green space and interconnected bodies of water. You can picnic, play baseball, take nature photographs of Indiana's picturesque scenery or even pan for gold within many of the state's a natural park treasures. Roast marshmallows over a campfire, follow deer tracks or sit for a session that combines nature and art given by an interpretive naturalist.
History
A German immigrant and Indianapolis businessman named Colonel Richard Leiber is credited with starting the state park system in Indiana. Upon Colonel Leiber's recommendation, McCormick Creek was born in the summer of 1916, becoming Indiana's first state park. The second, Turkey Run, was established a short while later. Leiber became a leader in the state park movement and even helped neighboring states to set up their own park systems.
Wildlife
A variety of animals reside in the forests, lakes and rivers of Indiana's state parks. Find deer tracks, beavers, woodpeckers and more throughout the year at parks such as Turkey Run. Discover lush and beautiful wildlife as you observe tall walnut trees, tiny ferns and an entire plant community. Visit the park's nature center or the wildlife refuges within the boundaries of some of the other parks. Great biodiversity exists within Indiana's state park system.
Attractions
Brown County State Park, located in Nashville, is Indiana's largest state park. It is referred to as Indiana's favorite playground. Go camping, hiking, fishing, horseback riding or sign up for line dancing classes. Take full advantage the activities that Brown County offers. Go boating on Lake Monroe Reservoir or Yellowstone Lake. Visit White River State Park and find the the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens and a state museum. This state park is also home to many special events, such as the Indy Jazz Fest.
Lodging
Find comfortable lodging at any of the many state park inns located on the grounds of Indiana's state parks. Many of these inns offer country decor with modern accommodations such as indoor/outdoor swimming pools and full service dining. Perhaps you'd prefer to spend time sleeping closer to nature. Call the visitors' center at a park such as Muscatatuck State Park and reserve space at the densely wooded campgrounds. Visit any of the state park's camping sites and bring your RV, reserve a cabin or simply pitch a tent and sleep under the stars.
Regulations
Hunting, fishing and boating are among the activities covered by rules and regulations within Indiana's state parks. You can find a listing of these regulations, statutes and rules on the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website.
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