Our family's favorite Indiana getaway — stunning sandstone gorges and trails you wouldn't expect in the Midwest. Here's what to know before you go.
Map
Most people don't think of this scenery when they think of Indiana, but you'll never regret hiking these trails! Even in summer heat and humidity, the trails stay cool as they wind along creeks and rivers.
Turkey Run State Park
Caution: if the map says a trail is rugged, it IS rugged! Think many steps and ladders. Plan ahead if you have small children or pets — not all trails are baby/pet friendly unless you can carry your child in a hiking carrier.
Turkey Run State Park
Walking sticks and shoes with good tread will be best.
Turkey Run State Park
You can rent a canoe or tube to float down the river (check water conditions first — we skipped it one trip due to high water).
Turkey Run State Park
There's also a pool, several playgrounds, shelters, and places to go fishing.
Turkey Run State Park
There's a saddle barn for horse riding, plus meeting rooms for conferences.
Turkey Run State Park
A lightweight 20L daypack is perfect for Turkey Run's ladder trails — room for snacks, water, and all the little treasures the kids collect
Osprey Packs Daylite Plus Daypack, Black
The canyon stairs and rocky descents are so much easier with poles — these fold down small enough to toss in the car
Trekology Trek-Z Cork Grip Lightweight Poles
A must for every campsite bag — perfect for late-night bathroom runs and reading by the fire without waking everyone up
PETZL TIKKINA Headlamp
Fits two and sets up in minutes — the perfect reward after a long day on Turkey Run's rugged trails
ENO DoubleNest Lightweight Camping Hammock
A cushioned camp chair with a built-in cooler in the arm? That's mom-of-teens-approved genius
Coleman Camping Chair w/ 4-Can Cooler & Cup Holder
Practically indestructible and easy to clean — exactly what a water bottle needs to survive family hiking
Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth Water Bottle, Periwinkle
Indiana woods mean mosquitoes and ticks — this plant-based, DEET-free spray uses oil of lemon eucalyptus for up to 6 hours of protection.
