A popular destination for campers and hikers in central Indiana, Turkey Run State Park is an ideal destination for families. Visitors can easily fill a day hiking any of the 11 trails, visiting the nature center, or riding on the park's bridle trails. Canoeing and fishing on Sugar Creek are also popular activities. Visitors wishing to stay overnight have access to rental cabins, RV rentals, rooms at Turkey Run Inn, or on-site campgrounds. Electrical hookup as well as restrooms/showers are available at the campsites. A camp store is located at the entrance to the campground, but be aware that supplies at the store are minimal so come prepared. An Olympic-sized swimming pool is also located at the park.
Must see and must do at Turkey Run State Park
- The hiking trails at Turkey Run offer views unlike your typical state park. Turkey Run is full of trails that lead hikers through sandstone gorges offering an exciting trek for visitors of all ages. Trails range from easy to very rugged.
- If you're heading into the woods, be sure to make a trip across the suspension bridge hanging over Sugar Creek.
- Turkey Run State Park includes many historic sites from the 1800s. During your stay, take time to visit the log church, the Lusk Home, the Lieber Cabin, and the covered bridge.
Best and worst time to go to Turkey Run State Park
Turkey Run is a popular destination for local campers. Campgrounds and cabins fill quickly during holiday weekends, so make reservations early.
Admission to Turkey Run State Park
Turkey Run State Park is open 11 a.m. through 7 p.m. daily throughout the year. Fees for daily admission are typically under $10, with annual passes also available. Fees can vary based on the entrance gate that is used. A detailed breakdown of admission fees can be found on the Turkey Run State Park website.
Wildlife at Turkey Run State Park
Deer, beavers, pileated woodpeckers and turkey vultures all make their homes at Turkey Run. Watch for tracks or beaver-chewed trees as you hike the trails through the woods or by the stream.
Insider Tip for Turkey Run State Park
A hike through the sandstone gorges at Turkey Run offers visitors a glimpse into millions of years' of erosion hard at work. For impressive views of the results of the erosion, check out the Punchbowl on Trail 3 or the Canadian bedrock deposited by glaciers on Trail 9.
Author's bio: Heather Hurley is a publishing professional and freelance writer living in Carmel, Indiana. She is a reluctant camper, but enthusiastic hiker who rates Turkey Run among her favorite hiking locations.