One of the best trails of the Hoosier National Forest is the Two Lakes Trail. The trail is over 15.5 miles-long and offers amazing views of the Indian and Celina Lakes. It also forms a figure eight around both lakes. The trail features hardwood forests and there are many steep slopes. Visitors will encounter all walks of wildlife along the trail. Visitors can opt to hike the trail two ways: taking the full outer loop of the trail which is the full 15.5 miles, or they can hike the eight-mile loop around either lake. 

The Harrison-Crawford State forest is among the most beautiful places to trek during the fall. The changing leaves of this 24,000-acre rugged hardwood forest makes for an excellent backdrop for a hike. For something a bit more challenging, opt to navigate the Rocky Ridge Trail. This hike starts at the fire tower and moves west for an incredible two-mile adventure.

Falls Canyon Trail inside McCormick’s Creek State Park (Trail 3 on the park’s official website) is a challenging but beloved trail for Hoosiers. The terrain is filled with hills and as you pass through, there are many creek crossings. Be sure to check the weather before crossing as sometimes the water levels rise enough to make this part impassable. Visitors will also see something a bit unusual and not widely found across Indiana: a beautiful waterfall. Visitors will also see the amazing amount of limestone Indiana has throughout its southern parts. The more limestone you see, that’s usually a good indication of more hills and slopes to come! This trail is just under a mile and is considered rugged, so come prepared. 

Considered to be a moderately difficult trail, Bloodroot Trail is part of Salamonie Lake near Andrew, Indiana. The trail is 13 miles long and starts at the Salamonie Interpretive Center. From there, visitors can hike through fields and woods to the Mount Etna State Recreation Area and hike the bluffs that overlook the gorgeous lake. The trail has steep hills and valleys, and visitors should take care to stay on the marked trails to avoid getting lost. 

Located in southern Indiana is the Morgan-Monroe State Forest. The park is more than 24,000 acres encompassing Morgan and Monroe counties, and has many steep ridges, valleys, and some of the finest trees around Indiana. For the more experienced hikers, Three Lakes Trail and the Low Gap Trail are the most popular here. Both trails are about 10 miles long, and have long, large hills with switchbacks in between. As visitors walk, they will also see some of the most beautiful views the forest has to offer, especially in the fall. 

Head on over to Lawrence County Recreational Park in Springville, Indiana, this summer and experience some of the best trails Indiana has to offer! With over 60 miles of trails, there is a trail for everyone—from beginner to experienced. Ride through the open fields and feel the need for speed. Better year, check out LCRP’s well-maintained gravel roads. And for those who are completely new to dirt biking, check out LCRP’s “Dirt Bike School,” in which you get hands-on training and learn the techniques to stay safe, be responsible, and most of all, have fun! One thing to note: LCRP’s trails are strictly confined to dirt bikes and ATVs. No dune buggies or monster trucks and Jeeps to be found here! You can ride without worry. Before leaving, make sure to check out the Indiana Motorcycle Safety Memorial and Walk of Remembrance, located at the entrance.

Head out to Badlands Off Road Park in Attica, Indiana, for a thrilling day. With over 800 acres, the views are absolutely breathtaking! The park offers multiple types of terrain and trails for all levels of riders. If you don’t have a bike or don’t feel like bringing your own, not to worry. BORP offers rentals at affordable rates! Are you more of a racer than a trail rider? Check out BORP’s full size MX track and put your skills to the test! Hungry after your ride? Check out Bob’s Burgers for some delicious, home-cooked food! Finding that you’re a bit sweaty and covered in dirt after your ride? One of the perks at BORP is that private showers are offered on site. 

Check out the Redbird State Recreation Area in Linton, Indiana, for all your dirt biking needs! Trails are open seven days a week, year-round, as long as weather permits. With over 1,400 acres, Redbird was named after the Redbird Coal Mine and offers diverse trails for riders of all levels of experience. When riding, keep your eyes open for the more sensitive areas of land and reclamation areas. 

Located just outside the city of Muncie, Indiana, is Prairie Creek Reservoir. With just over 50 acres, PCR offers several ATV trails, gravel pits and mud. It might not seem challenging to those who are more experienced, but for those that consider themselves to be beginners, Prairie Creek Reservoir is an excellent place to start your dirt biking adventure! There are very few steep hills and jumps, which makes it easy to navigate. Ride along the sandy shore of Prairie Creek and take some time to admire the views while mastering your skills.

Another excellent place for the dirt biking enthusiast is Haspin Acres in Laurel, Indiana. With 750 acres of hills and trails, Haspin Acres is the place to be. For those that prefer racing over trail riding, Haspin Acres offers a 300-foot drag strip, as well as two mud pits. There is also a motocross track that is over a mile long with step ups over 110 feet! This lovely place is surrounded by acres and acres of forest and is rustic Indiana at its finest. Children are allowed at the track, but must be accompanied by their parents and have signed waivers if under the age of 18. If something breaks on your bike, be sure to stop by and see Mr. Skids for repairs. Feeling hungry? Check out the Stone Hearth Grill for some delicious home cooking!  

This state park is THE hiking destination in Indiana, with over 70 miles of bridled trails for the equestrian enthusiasts, and over 18 miles of hiking trails for hikers of all levels of experience. The park also offer year-round camping, where visitors can enjoy the park’s two lakes, one used for swimming and the other for fishing during the summer, and ice fishing during the winter. For the little ones, try the park’s nature center, where they can learn about the park’s various wildlife such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, gray squirrels, and even wild turkeys! And though Brown County State Park is, without a doubt, the most popular attraction in Nashville, there are other things to do and see as well! 

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The first stop on your journey through Nashville should be the Brown County Art Gallery. The gallery was founded in 1926, and features over 400 paintings and artifacts in its Permanent Collection. Many of the original artists donated paintings and other items to create an ongoing exhibit, which is what visitors see today. Ninety years later, the gallery is still going strong and features the work of early Indiana artists, such as Gustave Baumann and William Zimmerman. 

For all the bluegrass fans out there, this is the place to be! The Bill Monroe Music Park and Campground is home of the Bill Monroe Memorial Bluegrass Festival, which is the oldest, and continuous, running bluegrass festival in the world. It’s also the home of the Bill Monroe Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum. Throughout the year, the park and campground hosts eight musical events, from bluegrass to blues, gospel and rock-n-roll. Bring the whole family, some lawn chairs, and pack a picnic as you enjoy the sounds of live music in the campground’s wooden amphitheater. All shows are held rain or shine!

For something more relaxing and enjoyable, head to the Brown County Winery, located deep in the rolling hills of Nashville. The winery is committed to providing their customers with outstanding, high quality and most importantly, local wine, as well as an educational and enjoyable experience. The winery offers complimentary, daily tastings of their different wines and of course, before you leave, be sure to purchase a bottle or case of your favorite wine! The Vista White Wine or the Traminette, one of Indiana’s signature wines, are highly recommended.

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A surprise visit from friends 🤗🤗

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Another must-see destination in Nashville is the Brown County Playhouse, a 425-seat venue for a variety of entertainment, including concerts, live theatre, the latest movies, community events, festivals, and so much more. Popular shows include the Shimmy and Shake featuring a mixture of traditional belly dancing and modern music, Twist the Night Away in which visitors old and young can relive the music of the 1950s, and of course, Brown County’s very own Rich Hill’s World of Magic.

If you should ever be in Nashville and find yourself hungry and craving something good to eat, look no further than the Hobnob Corner Restaurant, an artisan inspired restaurant located in heart of Nashville. Step inside and be surrounded by rustic, historic charm, history, and some of the most delicious handmade, house-made food. Try a delicious cheeseburger or one of Indiana’s famous breaded tenderloin sandwiches, or one of the Hobnob specialties. Spinach lasagna or pot roast, anyone? And for dessert, try one of their delicious Chocolate Temptations!

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Craving a snack? Then you must visit the Carmel Corn Cottage, specializing in one of a kind, unique carmel corns. This charming little shop sits at the north end of Nashville on Van Buren street, and visitors can smell the caramel cooking over a mile away. The staff is extremely friendly and provide exceptional customer service. The shop offers 10 different types of caramel to choose from, as well as other flavors such as dill, maple and bacon. They also have some pooch corn for your furry four-legged friend! It’s truly one of a kind!

Bring Fido to this one of a kind doggie bakery in Nashville on your next trip, or at least be sure to bring back a few treats! The Bone Appetit offers over 20 flavors of premium, all natural dog treats made right here in the USA. The treats come in a variety of shapes, textures, and sizes. They also have treats for dogs who have dietary restrictions. When you choose a treat for your own dog, be sure to choose one to have sent to the Brown County Humane Society as well and save up to 90 percent. 

For all the craft lovers out there, come to Nashville’s one of kind, premier stamping and scrapbooking store! Wishful Thinking offers high-quality scrapbooking and stamping supplies you might not find in other stores. Wishful Thinking began in 2001 but it wasn’t until the following year that the store really took off thanks to owner Marlene Miller. Now, it’s the best place to find those unique, one of a kind craft supplies! The store also offers classes and other special events such as Artist Trading Swap, monthly card classes, and more.

For something a bit more unique, come visit the Emerald Pencil, a gallery of original art, gift cards, and curious things such as drawings, jewelry, vintage clothing and more. The Emerald Pencil is a tale of times past, furnished by creator Pamela Keech, who helps tell the stories of immigrant families by recreating their homes. It’s truly a unique sight to behold, and one everyone must see passing through Nashville!

Beautiful framed display of antique infant & doll clothes, by #nashvilleindiana artist, Pamela Keech. Pamela is the owner of The Emerald Pencil located next door to Michael's Flowers Antiques & Garden Treasures. #browncounty #artist #vintage #antiques #dollclothes #vintageclothing

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Considered to be Indiana’s best kept secret, Pine Hills Nature Preserve is one of the most beautiful places for a scenic hike in Indiana. The preserve was Indiana’s first dedicated nature preserve, and offers hills, gorges, sandstone bluffs with soaring evergreens and other trees, such as hemlock, white pine, Canada yews, oak, and more. As you hike, you will also see varying species of wildflowers, ferns, and other rare, exotic plants. There are five different trails to hike here at Pine Hills: Turkey Backbone, Woolen Mill and Mill Cut which takes you past the old Pine Hill Woolen Mill site, The Slide, named because of the many rock slides that have occurred over the years, Devil’s Backbone, a steep trail that is six feet-wide and 100 feet-high. If you are hiking with small children, avoid this trail. Last but not least is Honeycomb Rock. As you hike through this area, you will see a wall composed of complete sandstone that is over 300 million years-old. This area is truly rustic Indiana at its finest, and definitely worth the trip!

Just off Interstate 69 near Anderson, Indiana, is Mounds State Park. Here you will find unique structures of earth built by the Adena-Hopewell Indians. The largest structure, the Great Mound, is thought to have been constructed in 160 B.C. The “mounds,” as they are known, were used as gathering places for religious ceremonies. The park has six different hiking trails, ranging from easy to rugged. As you hike, you will see the White River and limestone bluffs, views of the picnic areas, as well as the spectacular Bronnenberg House, which belonged to the Bronnenberg family, one of the earliest settlers in the area. Be on the lookout for wildlife as you hike, watching for songbirds and waterfowl and water life. 

If you are looking for someplace that is peaceful, tranquil, and relaxing, look no further than Shades State Park. This area is a particular favorite of hikers and who could blame them? From the beautiful sandstone cliffs that overlook Sugar Creek and dozens of shady ravines, Shades State Park is breathtaking. The trails range in levels from easy to extreme. Hike through Lover’s Leap and continue down to the Steamboat Rock stairs and up into the Pearl Ravine streambed. At times though this trail may be impassable due to high water so watch for signs! You can also hike through Frisz Ravine and see the beautiful, tall beach, oak, and tulip trees. The easiest trail travels across the Red Fox Ravine, and be on the lookout for red foxes!

Charlestown State Park is located in southern Indiana, and is over 15,000 acres. This particularly hiking area is for the avid bird watcher. Watchers can see over 72 species of birds, from bluebirds, black vultures, and the occasional bald eagle if you are lucky! As you hike, you cross Fourteen Mile Creek in some areas. On the opposite side, you can view the creek from 100 feet above the water! Hikers will also see glimpses of the Ohio River and Twelvemile Island, as well as waterfalls! Note that this area is for the more experienced hiker. 

Established in 1903, the Clark State Forest is the oldest state forest in Indiana. Since its founding, the area has grown to 24,000 acres. The area was used as an experimental forest for many years, and many of those trees can still be seen from various areas throughout. There are three different trails to choose from: White Oak Nature, Resource Trail, and Knobstone Trail. The White Oak Nature trail is less than a mile, and is 143 acres. The Resource Trail is a mile long, and here you will see trees such as pignut hickory, white oak, and sugar maple. This trail is also prone to wildlife, so be on the lookout for birds, toads, and snakes! The last trail, Knobstone Trail, is 59 miles of pure back country, and crosses between Clark State Forest, Elk Creek, and Jackson Washington State Forest.

Indiana is considered a land-locked state, meaning there are no oceans nearby. While that may be true, Indiana does offer a beach bum’s paradise near Michigan called the Indiana Dunes State Park (or to most, Indiana Dunes or simply The Dunes). One of the best things about the Dunes is its abundance of hiking trails, especially of the family friendly variety. While some are labeled as more moderate or rugged, the easy hiking trails are highly accessible for the young ones. One of the easiest hiking trails in the area is three miles in length, and is truly whimsical during early spring. Hikers will be surrounded by beautiful flowers and ferns on this trek. 

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Strawtown Koteewi Park is Hamilton County’s hidden gem. Located just to the east of Cicero, the park is 750 acres, and offers everything from hiking to cycling trails, trail riding for the equestrians (including pony rides for the little ones), as well as canoeing and archery. Everyone in the family will love this one. 

Nutty's Grand Adventure part 1

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Another popular area to go hiking in Indiana is Brown County State Park, near Nashville, Indiana. Nicknamed “Little Smokies” because of its close resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. Brown County State Park boasts 16,000 acres. The most popular time to visit Brown County is in the fall when the leaves change colors. During the summer though, visitors can hike or bike through the numerous trails, as well as take guided trail rides. For the family, check out the playgrounds and nature center, as well as the swimming pool! For lodging, try the Abe Martin Lodge which has motel rooms and cabins, as well as an indoor water park!

Located in North Liberty, Indiana, Potato Creek State Park is about 12 miles southwest of South Bend. The park offers six different trail levels from beginner to advanced, as well as bicycle and mountain biking trails. The park also offers a swimming area, bridle trails, nature centers, and playgrounds. 

Clifty Falls is the place to be in the summer. Located in Madison, Indiana, Clifty Falls State Park features miles and miles of hiking trails and beautiful scenery throughout. A dedicated hiker’s dream is Clifty Falls. For the children, there is a swimming pool and waterslide as well as the nature center. 

The first trail running spot that should be on your list is the Mason Ridge Loop. The trail is part of the Morgan-Monroe State Park, located in southern Martinsville, Indiana. The trail is roughly three miles and is deemed moderate. It offers spectacular views of the changing leaves, as well as nearby lakes. If Fido enjoys running with you, the trail also allows dogs if they are kept on a leash. 

If you’ve never been to the Indiana Dunes up in northern Indiana, this is a prime spot for trail running. The West Beach 3-Loop Trail covers roughly 3.5 miles, but you can break apart the trek as you’d like. Dogs are also allowed, so be sure to bring your pup with you! The views on this trail are amazing. From the beaches to the sloping sand dunes, everywhere you turn on this trail there is something to see. 

The White River Trail near Anderson, Indiana, is known for having some of the most beautiful, natural land and wetland areas. There is an abundance of flowers and other plants, perfect for taking pictures as you run and absorb the sights. The trail is most beautiful in the springtime, especially when the flowers and plants are at their peak. As you run, you’ll see plenty of green and an assortment of wildlife. The view of the White River is spectacular, and it’s recommended to stop for a moment and enjoy the peaceful rustling as the river trickles by. There are also benches nearby if you find yourself needing a break.

The Chesapeake and Ohio Greenway Trail, also known as the C&O Trail, is just under two miles-long. The trail runs through the town of Merillville, which is in northern Indiana. In one part of the trail there is a pedestrian bridge which runs over Turkey Creek, and the other part of the trail goes through popular shopping areas in northern Indiana. Along the way, the trail divides into a more wooded area, which is absolutely breathtaking as you find yourself surrounded by trees. The C&O Trail runs diagonally, and the views are aplenty on this trail. From city to wilderness, there is so much to see. 

The Oak Savannah Trail is in northern Indiana, and is roughly nine miles-long. Runners travel between Hobart and Griffith in northern Indiana, which is known as Indiana’s Chicago metropolitan area. First-time visitors might not realize there are hundreds of natural areas one will encounter along the trail. See the old Porter Branch of the Elgin, Joliet, and Eastern Railway. Run by 300 acres belonging to the Hobart Prairie Grove of Indiana Dunes, which takes you to the edge of the beautiful Lake George. The farther you go into the trail, it becomes more of an urban setting before changing back to quiet forest and prairie-like settings. 

A 75 acre park spread between wetlands, reforestation, grasslands, and a local tree walk, Beckenholdt Park offers a variety of trails for your pup to explore. The park also features a membership only Rover's Run Dog Park, as well as a pavilion and amphitheater.

Spread over 5,100 acres on the banks of the Ohio River, Charlestown State Park offers a scenic hike with your dog while exploring native plant life and wildlife. Make memories, leave only paw prints!

This 80-acre park provides a extensive nature trail for you and your furry family member. The park features a variety of landscapes and habitats, as well as 4 different ponds. Cool off after your latest dog friendly adventure.

This park offers a great chance for your pup to explore a unique landscape. Trails offer glimpses of former World War II prisoner of war camps amongst the natural foliage. History and nature collide in this Indianapolis park!

Named after the endangered Indiana bat, this park features over 3.5 miles of trails, picnic areas, and a 5.5-acre pond. Sodalis Nature Park is a great place to explore with your furry companion. Don’t miss your chance to explore with your pup, and have a blast.

At over 15,000 acres, this is the largest park in Indiana. Your pup will love trekking the varied terrains and touring the many glens and ravines throughout the park.

This 157-acre preserve offers a variety of landscapes, from wetlands to woodlands, as well as a wildflower meadow. Trails run along the lake and through the woodlands, providing your canine companion with an exciting exploration through nature. Dog friendly exploration is taken to the next level at Coffee Creek.

Descending into ravines, walking along woodland paths and admiring the shelter house built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, your pup will love this trail. With so much room to explore, it’s no wonder dog owners keep coming back to Freedom Trail Park.

This trail offers a historical insight into the area, as well as a forested trail for you and your pup. Experience a stunning lakeside hike with your dog by your side, be sure to capture the lasting memories from your amazing time.

Walk along Sugar Creek with your pup while they marvel at the park’s many sandstone ravines and centuries old forests. They won’t be able to resist wandering the vat expanse that awaits!

With over 8,000 acres of wetland, upland, and woodland habitats, the Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area near Medaryville, Indiana, is the prime spot for birdwatchers. The area provides an ideal stop over for birds that are migrating, particularly sandhill cranes. The best time to see the cranes is near sunrise, when the birds fly out of the marshes to the nearby Goose Pasture and surrounding areas to feed, and then again at sunset, when the cranes migrate back to Goose Pasture and the surrounding marshes.

Sandhill Cranes

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Another popular spot in Indiana for birdwatching is the Hovey Lake Fish and Wildlife area in Mt. Vernon, Indiana. The area is nestled between the Ohio River and the Wabash River floodplains in southern Indiana. There are over 7,000 acres, with 1,400 of those acres made up of sloughs, marshes, and bottomland hardwood forest areas. Here, birdwatchers can see a variety of songbirds, raptors, and other waterfowl through the birdwatching observation area available to visitors. 

Head down to southern Morocco, Indiana, to find some of the best birdwatching that Indiana has to offer. The area is over 9,000 acres, with over 1,000 acres of open water, marshes, and flooded crop areas. Because of its enormous amount of wetlands available, the Willow Slough area attracts a variety of birds and other waterfowl. From gulls and terns, herons, grassland birds, warblers, swallows and more, there are so many birds to see at Willow Slough. Occasionally visitors will see rare species of birds such Ross’s goose, black rail, yellow-headed blackbird, and even a few osprey and bald eagles from time to time. It’s also the perfect place to hear the owls sing their songs at night. 

The Indiana Dunes State Park located in northern Chesterton, Indiana, is the perfect place for birdwatchers. The southern tip is an important area for feeding and resting migrating birds. Because of its location, the Dunes attracts a variety of bird species and influences their migrating patterns, such as black and white warblers, laughing gull, Connecticut warblers, yellow-billed cuckoo, and many more. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced birdwatcher, Indiana Dunes is the best place to be. Be sure to take part in the Indiana Dunes Bird Watching Festival, a four-day event in which avid birdwatchers come from around the world to see migrating birds and discover new species.   

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Owned and operated by the City of Indianapolis, Eagle Creek Park is the largest park in Central Indiana at just over 5,000 acres. It’s made up of various upland and wetland habits, and is regarded as being a critical location for breeding, migrating, and over-wintering bird populations thanks to the park’s size, diversity of habitat, and a large body of water within the park. Of the many birds and other waterfowl that reside within and migrate to the park are several endangered species, such as red-shouldered hawks, black and white warblers, as well as hooded warblers, which are extremely rare for Indiana. Other species include field sparrow and brown thrashers. The park is also home to many non-releasable birds of prey, such as hawks, falcons, vultures, and owls. 

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Situated on over 25,000 acres, Patoka Lake makes up nearly 9,000 acres in Birdseye, Indiana. The lake, which is located just south of historic French Lick and West Baden, is a fisherman’s dream. A freshwater reservoir, it was named “best in the Midwest” by USA Today. You’ll find a variety of fish from largemouth and small mouth bass to catfish and more. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife as well, including two non-releasable bald eagles. You’ll also find a red-tailed hawk, screech owls, and even river otter and osprey. 

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Located between the small town of Cicero and the larger city of Noblesville, Morse Reservoir is another one of Indiana’s go-to places for fishing. With over 1,500 acres of water, 35 miles of shoreline, and seven miles of water navigable from Little Chicago Road in Noblesville to State Road 19 in Cicero, this is every fisherman’s paradise. The reservoir was originally constructed in 1956 to serve as Indianapolis’s third reservoir for drinking water, but it is also used primarily for fishing. The most popular spots along Morse Reservoir are along the shore and by the dam. 

Another prime fishing spot in Indiana is the White River, which flows throughout Southern Indiana (Muncie, Chesterfield, Perkinsville, Noblesville, and Broad Ripple, etc.) All throughout southern Indiana, this magnificent river flows for nearly 330 miles. A beautiful place to sit and back relax, the White River offers breathtaking views and calm, clear waters. There is also camping available for those who wish to stay. Enjoy fishing for smallmouth bass, bluegills, catfish, yellow perch and more! You can also fish for minnow as well.  

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The St. Joseph River is considered a “visiting” river to Indiana. It rises in Michigan, flows down into Indiana before flowing back up to Michigan. Forty-two miles of the St. Joseph River flows through the northern half of Indiana (South Bend, Fort Wayne, Elkhart, and Bristol). Here you will find a beautiful place to spend time with family during the warm weather and catching a variety of fish. Because it is a fresh water river, you can find bowfins, trout, minnows, quite the selection of catfish, as well as sunfish and bass.

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Situated in Hoosier National Forest, Sundance Lake was “built for fishing.” The lake covers 5.3 acres close to the town of Spurgeons Corner. The fishing area was originally constructed in 1992 to expand fishing opportunity in that particular area of Hoosier National Forest. Anglers will find bluegill, redear sunfish, bass, and channel catfish in Sundance Lake. 

Located on the beautiful, sandy shores of Lake Shafer, Indiana Beach provides hours of fun and entertainment for families of all ages, and has been since it first opened in 1927. Not only does this amazing water park provide thrilling rides and amazing food, Indiana Beach is also home to some beautiful campgrounds as well. Guests have their picks of an RV site, tent campsite, or a cabin. Some amenities include a swimming pool (with a kiddie pool), miniature golf, lake access, three playgrounds, and game barn. As part of accommodations, guests also have access to the free, old-world style ferry boat to take them to the amusement park, in addition to a trolley.

Located in northeast Indiana on Lake Pleasant, Manapogo Park is a beautiful destination for all the campers. It is mostly an RV and pop-up tent campground spot. However, they do have rustic cabins available as well. There is always something to do at Manapogo Park. With activities such as basketball, volleyball, and a fenced-in playground, this is the perfect place for the family. Parents can enjoy spending time on the beach while the little ones splash in the waves. If fishing is your thing, Manapogo Park has some of the best fishing spots around. If you are looking for something to do outside the campground, consider going to the Shipshewana flea market, which is about a 30-minute drive away.

We definitely were some #HappyCampers. #ThisWasFun #Throwback 🏕

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Owners Dan and Cyndee Gillmore are committed to providing a beautiful place to relax and have some good old-fashioned family fun at the Cornerstone Campground. With so many activities to choose from, it’s hard to decide what to do first! Cornerstone Campground offers swimming pools, ball courts, playgrounds, ping pong tournaments, movie nights, and more! This is the place to be with your family this summer. If you are a company, consider Cornerstone Campground for future company retreats. Your employees will thank you!

❀fall trees❀

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Once the kids see this spot, they’ll never want to leave! For starters, the wide range of activities on the site include special weekend events, a jumping pillow, inflatable water toys, a water trampoline, and a beautiful sandy beach. The restrooms are clean, the showers are hot, and there are even laundry facilities! At this campground, you can stay over in your RV or tent. There are also rentals available for 24 and 30-foot yurts, as well as cabins.

Oh how I've missed these summer nights .. 🏕🔥😌 #camplife

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Another New Castle family favorite is the Walnut Ridge Campground. Walnut Ridge is the place to go if you are looking for a quiet, relaxing, family-friendly camping experience. Whether you are a seasonal camper or you’re just staying for a few days, there are a variety of camping options to choose from here at Walnut Ridge. The activities are endless as well, with corn hole tournaments, pitch in dinners, karaoke, and golf cart races! Looking to do something outside the campground? Walnut Ridge is within driving distance to places such as the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, historic New Castle, and the Big Blue River. 

EPIC Climbing and Fitness is Indianapolis’s premier indoor rock climbing facility. If you are completely new to climbing or want to brush up on your skills, the Intro to Climbing course is highly recommended. EPIC also offers a beginner course for women, taught by women. They also have private instruction classes. There are a variety of climbing options to choose from, and each one is an experience in itself. The staff is super friendly and patient, providing outstanding customer service each and every time you go!

Climb Lafayette is the city’s only indoor rock climbing gym. Their mission is simple: play safe, play smart, and above all, have fun while you are here! They are all about providing a friendly, supportive, nonjudgmental environment for those who love to rock climb and those who aren’t quite master climbers. Owners Kyle Batta and Kelly Dugger are as friendly as can be, as is the rest of their staff. At Climb Lafayette, there are three different options to choose from: bouldering (no rope or harness), Top Rope, and Auto Belay. Climb Lafayette is the place to go if you are looking to brush up on your skills.

Vertical Excape in southern Evansville, Indiana, is rock climbing at its finest. When you walk in the door, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered mountain country with their realistic rock walls. Vertical Excape has been in business since 1999, and has over 12,000 feet of textured climbing surfaces. Each one ranges in height, the tallest being 32 feet! There are over 40 climbing stations and because of its diversity, it attracts climbers of all levels. If you are a beginner, they offer beginner sessions to teach you the basics and safety, and an instructor will stay with you until you feel comfortable enough to be on your own.

Hoosier Heights Indianapolis in Carmel, Indiana, is another great place to learn the art of rock climbing. There are many different climbing options to choose from, whether you are a beginner or an expert. Each area is a challenge in itself but with the help of their friendly and experienced staff, you’ll feel comfortable taking it on! Want to join a climbing league? They’ve got that, too. 

Climb Time Indy is another great spot to build your rock climbing skills. They are focused on providing a safe environment where climbers can learn, build their skills, and have fun at the same time. There are a variety of different levels and routes to choose from, and what makes Climb Time Indy unique is that each week, the routes are changed so that there is always something new to climb and conquer. In total, there are 4,000 different routes, 30 rope areas, and over 8,000 square-feet of climbing space. There is also an area designed specifically for rappelling. Be sure to check them out today!

Once a former industrial site for National Steel, the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk area in northern Indiana opened in October 2008. With 57 acres to see and explore, visitors can enjoy access to the lakefront and beach, as well as trails and an accessible fishing pier. There is also a 900-foot breakwater, which is spectacular. Come and enjoy the breathtaking views of the land as you paddle about. 

Established in 1925, the Indiana Dunes State Park is one of the most popular areas for water activities in northern Indiana. The whole park is a little over 2,000 acres and a mixture of beach, dunes, marshes, swaps, forests, etc. There are over 16 and a half miles of trails. As you head away from the more public beach areas, paddle your way through the open waters and watch for birds or take in the amazing views of the large sand dunes.

With three different locations to choose from, the Kankakee (pronounced kang-kuh-kee) River National Water Trail is located throughout northwestern Indiana. Starting from South Bend, Indiana, and flowing to the Illinois River, the trail is about 3,000 miles and includes 13 Indiana counties. The land is flat in some areas, and rolling in others, reflecting the effects of glaciers as they moved throughout the state. The paddleboarding areas about 133 miles, and in these areas, you will see sand and gravel and bedrock. In some areas, you’ll see farmland with very little trees, and in other areas you’ll paddle through several state parks and conversation areas.

Come to northern Valparaiso, Indiana, and check out an area that offers lakes, wetlands, ponds, and streams. Paddle along the tranquil and more private Long Lake, a more residential area or explore Rogers Lakewood Park, which has 122 acres of woodlands and two beautiful lakes, Loomis and Spectacle. Here, you can also rent boards if you do not have your own. Paddle at your own pace and enjoy the scenic wildflowers, do some bird watching, and be on the lookout for curious wildlife!

With more than 50 miles of continuous water trails between Whiting and Michigan City is the Lake Michigan Water Trail. This area is the main spot for paddleboarding in Indiana next to the Dunes. As you paddle about, you will see a diverse ecosystem which includes white sandy beaches, huge sand dunes that have taken years to accumulate and build, with some towering at 200 feet into the sky. Paddlers will also see bluffs, industrial areas, ports, and as you paddle closer to Michigan City, you will see breathtaking sunsets over the Chicago skyscrapers. Be sure to have your camera ready! 

If you are looking for some place that is more than just an RV campground, head on down to southern Indiana to Thousand Trails’ Horseshoe Lakes. The area is over 290 acres and boasts a family-friendly atmosphere with the charm of a true campground. Situated on spring-fed lakes, Horseshoe Lakes has 11 lakes to fish in! If fishing isn’t your passion, there are other activities to do as well. Try your hand at a game of shuffleboard or mini golf. There is also a swimming pool, playground, volleyball and basketball! It’s fun for the whole family. 

France Park is Logansport’s hidden gem RV campsite. With over 200 campsites, there is something for everyone when you camp at France Park. One hundred and thirty sites have electricity and water hook-ups. Pets are allowed if they remain on a leash. There are shower houses available, and several playgrounds as well. The area itself is beautiful. With scenic trails to a breathtaking waterfall and picture perfect cliffs, there is no shortage of scenery to be found. There is also a designated fishing lake, and the Old Kenith Depot Store that has all your camping needs! Have you ever wanted to scuba dive? France Park is THE dive site in Indiana. The waters are crystal clear and there are plenty of fish to be found. For those of you that love Frisbee golf, you’ll be delighted to find 24 spots to play!

Welcome to Timberline Valley RV Resort, another one of Indiana’s premier camping resorts! Though it is only a few miles away from I-69, it feels as though you’ve left the city and entered an entirely remote part of Indiana. Timberline Valley is made up of 80 beautiful and scenic acres, and has a country-like feel to it. What makes this spot a bit different compared to other areas of camping is that Timberline Valley offers a 3.5-acre lake with a beach! The beach isn’t large by any means, but it certainly reminds you of being up at Indiana Dunes! Timberline Valley is for families and couples alike, and offers 95 RV sites. Each site includes a picnic table and fire pit. Not far from Timberline Valley is the Indianapolis Speedway, and be sure to visit Fairmount, Indiana, during their annual James Dean festival!

Perhaps one of the most popular RV campsites in Indiana is in Brown County. The park has dozens of different campsites and offers a variety of amenities. Check out the park’s nature center or country store. There is also a swimming pool, tennis courts, and so much more! Try a morning or evening trail ride and watch the sunset along Brown County’s beautiful forests. Whether you prefer biking or hiking, there are trails for all levels and preferences. Dine under one of the park’s picnic shelters and enjoy a delicious meal. 

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Runaround Sue #runaroundsue

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One of the most highly-rated RV parks and campgrounds in the state, Eby’s Pines will give you the family getaway you’re looking for. Camping areas include deluxe full hook-up pull-through sites designed for larger units, full hook-up sites, electric and water sites, and primitive sites. On the grounds, you’ll find a 2,400-square-foot heated swimming pool, hiking and snowmobile trails, a game room, a roller-skating rink and laser tag arena, tennis courts, basketball courts, and much more.  

Up in northern Indiana, close to the Pokagon State Park and Fort Wayne, is Lake James. A naturally formed glacial lake, Lake James has over 1,200 acres of recreational waters that are used for boating, fishing, water skiing and other water sports, such as jet skiing. Between the hours of sun up to sun down, visitors to Lake James can enjoy the beautiful waters and feel the wind in their hair as they roar down the lake on a jet ski. 

Another great area in Indiana for watersports is Patoka Lake, near historic French Lick and West Baden in southern Indiana. With over 20,000 acres of land and water, Patoka Lake is a must-see this summer. The lake itself is a little over 8,000 acres and is home to freshwater jelly fish and bald eagle nesting sites. It also the second largest reservoir in Indiana. It has a mild beach feel to it and you almost forget that you are in the Midwest. Before you take off, be sure to check out Bobber the Water Dog for water safety instructions, tips, and tricks! Check out Hoosier Hills Marina, which now rents Yamaha WaveRunners. 

Located about 10 miles southeast of southern Bloomington, Indiana, is the beautiful and picturesque Monroe Lake (also known to some as Lake Monroe or Monroe Reservoir). The lake itself is over 10,000 acres but the whole area is over 23,000 acres. Monroe Lake is Indiana’s largest inland lake and was built in 1965. Here you can camp, water ski, jet ski, and enjoy so many other water-based activities! The area itself is breathtaking, and in many areas, it can feel as though you’ve landed on your own private island surrounded by beautiful trees, water, and nature. If you don’t have your own jet ski, be sure to visit Lake Monroe Boat Rental just off State Road 446!

Located in northern Peru, Indiana, is Mississinewa Lake or Lake Mississinewa. A little over 14,000 acres total with 3,200 of that being lake acreage, Lake Mississinewa is a favorite of the locals in northern Indiana, including Kokomo. It’s a flood-controlled reservoir, and is perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to drive far but want the beach. It’s also perfect for camping with over 400 campsites and family cabins. Enjoy the feeling as you cruise through the open waters and take in some of the wildlife. When you arrive, you will have to pay an entrance fee, so keep that in mind. And before you leave, be sure to check out Southside Scoops Ice Cream Parlor!

Located in northern Monticello, Indiana, is Lake Shafer. Most Hoosiers know Lake Shafer to be the home of Indiana Amusement Park and Beach (Indiana Beach to the locals). Lake Shafer is also known for its many water park activities, including jet skiing. It is one of two reservoirs in Monticello, and shares its location with Lake Freeman. It’s a great place for a weekend getaway or a short vacation, as there are numerous cottages and cabins available for rent. Be sure to visit Indiana Beach while you are there. Visit Lake Shafer Boat Rentals to rent a WaveRunner at a reasonable rate! 

Renting through Freedom Kayak Adventures at Saxony Lake is a great way to get started on your kayaking journey. Single-kayak rentals are $15 per hour and tandem kayaks are $20 per hour. Freedom Kayak even offers classes on the lake for beginners to learn the basics of the sport. 

For those of us who are just starting out in our kayaking adventure, Sugar Creek Campground and Canoe Rentals in Crawfordsville, Indiana, is the place to start. Although Sugar Creek offers three different kayaking adventures to choose from, the best place for beginners to start is with the three-mile short and sweet trip. Although you won’t be spending a lot of time on the water, this trip lets you get accommodated and accustomed to a kayak without much difficulty or worry. At Sugar Creek, their mission is to provide a fun, relaxing, and safe environment for all to enjoy!

I'll take years off my life before I take life off my years #tb; loving the cold, missing the water

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Another excellent place for beginners to kayak is at the Trading Post in Mongo, Indiana. It is family owned and operated, and each canoe and kayak trip travels through the 13,000 acres of the Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area. Kayak down the scenic Pigeon River on the Nasby Dam trip, which is approximately an hour and a half. The trip is four miles, perfect for the beginner and small children. Float down the Nasby Dam at your own pace, stopping to fish or check out the local wildlife.

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Canoe believe we didn't tip it?

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Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or someplace to go for the day, Old Mill Canoe Rental in Fredericksburg, Indiana, is the place to go. The owners and staff pride themselves on providing excellent customer service. The half-mile to two-mile trip is excellent for those who are beginners and just want to practice, or for those who just want to paddle for relaxation. As you paddle, you might even get to see some of the local wildlife. Keep your eyes open for white tailed deer, adorable otters, turtles, and more! 

Located along the beautiful Pigeon River in Pleasant Lake, Indiana, Pigeon River Canoe and Camp is a great place for beginning kayakers to test out their skills. The AWP to Livery is three and a half miles long, and takes about two hours. It is perfect for beginners who aren’t entirely confident in their skills, but want to learn and grow. Kayaking and canoeing are only offered on the weekends, depending on river conditions, so be sure to call ahead of time!