Camping in Turkey Run State Park – Western Indiana

Turkey Run State Park, nestled in the scenic rural area of Western Indiana right by the Illinois border, showcases the ancient Indiana that so few ever get to see. Within the boundaries of this state park, visitors will find some of the oldest trees in the state and see how the ravages of time have shaped the area with its vast forests and sandstone gorges. Within Turkey Run State Park, guests are treated to rugged and beautiful hiking trails, canoeing and fishing in the pristine Sugar Creek and, in the middle of it all, a great camping experience.

While there are several private outfitters that provide camping near Turkey Run State Park, there is only one campground within park boundaries. It is nestled deep in the ancient Indiana forests that make this state park so beloved by its visitors. The tall trees provide enough privacy and shade for campers so that they don’t need to enjoy the company of their neighbors while still providing flat and clear sites to pitch a tent. For the modern camper or RV enthusiast, the campground hosts 213 electric Class A campsites with hookups for recreational vehicles as well as flat cleared areas for the tent campers. These sites all include fire rings, picnic tables and easy access to restrooms, showers and clean drinking water. The campground allows for reservations up to six months in advanced and will cost between $12 to $26 per night depending on the site size and utilities provided.

For those that don’t revel in developed campsites, Turkey Run Campground also offers two primitive group campsites that offer pit toilets and all the joys of unblemished nature. However, no matter whether campers choose their primitive or developed campsites, both are located close to the campground store that provides all those essentials that campers forgot to pack.

For campers that aren’t ready to settle down around the fire for the night, there is an abundance of activities surrounding the campground that visitors can enjoy. Sugar Creek, located just south of the camping area, is one of Indiana’s most scenic rivers and a major canoe destination. Although the park does not operate any canoe services there are two launch ramps located upstream and downstream from the campground. Visitors can enjoy the smooth green waters, large sandstone boulders and sandy strips of beach along the shoreline as well as several beautiful old bridges as they lazily paddle down the river. However, paddlers should be aware that the river is dangerous for swimmers and it is never permitted.

For those that prefer to explore Turkey Run on foot, the camping area is surrounded by hiking trails that explore the sandstone cliffs and peaceful hemlock groves of this state park. The trails aren’t named, but rather numbered. There are eleven official trails with only one being well developed and easy going. The others are moderately strenuous and rugged. However, they take hikers through scenic forest, beautiful canyons, along the picturesque Sugar Creek and above the area on gorgeous sandy cliffs. None of the trails are longer than three miles, which make them a must see in what is considered Indiana’s most beautiful state park.

Regards, Park Ranger