Each year, readers of VisitIndiana.com vote for the Best of Indiana. In 2018, voters selected the state's best State Parks, Burgers and Museums! With 32 Indiana State Parks and Lakes on the ballot, it was a tough choice, but voters narrowed the list down to the 10 best! Which park took the number one spot? You can view the list below or here!
Indiana State Nature Passport
Many of the destinations listed below are part of the Indiana State Nature Passport! Check-in and explore participating locations throughout the state to earn great prizes! The more you visit, the more you win. This program is 100% free, but property entrance fees apply when you visit. Learn More.
10. Chain O' Lakes State Park
Chain O’ Lakes State Park is called as such because…wait for it….the park contains a chain of lakes, thirteen lakes to be exact, with nine connected via a central waterway. This state park is open to boaters, campers, fishing enthusiasts, swimmers, hikers, and pretty much anyone wishing to retreat into the wilderness for a quiet afternoon.
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
9. Patoka Lake
Located in Orange, Dubois and Crawford Counties, Patoka Lake is a gorgeous spot in Southern Indiana.
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
8. Shakamak State Park
Shakamak State Park is a wonderful place for fishing, camping, hiking swimming, and more. Located in Jasonville, this state park provides an incredible escape in Southwest Indiana!
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
7. Clifty Falls State Park
Home to beautiful waterfalls and gorgeous views of Downtown Madison and the Ohio River, Clifty Falls State Park is a favorite destination in Southern Indiana. Insider tip, the waterfalls are perhaps even more beautiful when they are frozen over during winter months!
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
6. Pokagon State Park/Trine State Recreation Area
Known by many around the state as a winter destination because of its famous toboggan run, Pokagon State Park is a popular park year-round with wonderful hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and much more.
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
5. Spring Mill State Park
Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell is home to a wonderful pioneer village, as well as caves, hiking, mountain biking, and the "Gus" Grissom Memorial museum.
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
4. Indiana Dunes State Park
Home to what are rated as some of America's best beaches for families, Indiana Dunes State Park features three miles of Lake Michigan Shoreline, amazing hiking, a fabulous nature center, a birding pavilion, and the incredibly tough 3 Dune Challenge!
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
3. McCormick's Creek State Park
Indiana's first state park, McCormick's Creek State Park is over 100 years old and continues to draw visitors to Sweet Owen County! Enjoy swimming, hiking, waterfalls, horseback riding and much more!
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
2. Brown County State Park
Nicknamed the “Little Smokies”, Brown County State Park is Indiana’s largest state park. It encompasses nearly 16,000-acres of rugged hills, ridges, and ravines. It’s considered a hot spot for leaf-peeping, mountain biking, and horseback riding in Indiana.
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
1. Turkey Run State Park
Turkey Run State Park is famous for its canyons and natural trails. Voted number one by Hoosiers, visitors to Parke County have the chance to explore sandstone gorges and scenic views along Sugar Creek.
This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE!
