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As Indiana’s second state park, Turkey Run Campground was established in 1916. The story behind its name suggests that local hunters would find herds of wild turkeys gathering in the area’s narrow canyon bottoms—called “runs”—and funnel them out for easy harvesting. The area’s natural history goes back a little father—upwards of 600 million years. It was around this time that the sandstone and coal deposits seen in the park were being formed and compacted in a vast, swampy plain. Fast-forward several million years, and Ice Age meltwaters cut and scoured the creeks, canyons, and potholes seen today. Some of the glacial erratics (boulders) seen in the park are actually pieces of bedrock that were transported from as far north as Canada. Visitors to Turkey Run can explore these unique canyons, enjoy the park’s natural scenery, fish and paddle in Sugar Creek, and see several historic sites.
Located 10 miles north of Rockville, and 70 miles west of Indianapolis, Turkey Run State Park is year-round nature and recreation area covering nearly 2,400 acres along Sugar Creek. The campground at Turkey Run features more than 200 tent and RV sites with electrical hookups, picnic tables and fire pits with cooking grills; some sites are ADA accessible. Most sites are back-in and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 45 feet; a few pull-throughs can accommodate larger. All sites have access to drinking water, flush and vault restrooms, and showers; two dump stations are available onsite. There are also two primitive tent camping areas for youth groups, several cabins for rent, and the historic Turkey Run Inn, which offers 61 lodge rooms, a dining room, and meeting spaces. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed. Campsites raters are $23–$33/night; other accommodations range from $67–$110/night; reservations accepted.
Besides exploring Turkey Run’s canyon runs, the park offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports courts. The park’s nature center showcases a variety of exhibits and interactive activities to educate visitors about the park’s geology, flora and fauna. Park naturalists offer guided hikes and nature walks, animal talks and campfire programs. Swimming is not permitted in Sugar Creek, but anglers can fish for bass and bluegill, and paddlers can head out in canoes and kayaks. Swimmers are invited to enjoy the park’s Olympic-sized swimming pool for cooling off during the warmer months. The park also offers hayrides and guided horseback rides. For a blast from the past, visitors can also tour the historic Lusk Home. Built in 1841, this restored European home displays a lifestyle from a bygone era. Watch out for the resident raccoons.
8121 E. Park Road, Marshall, Indiana 47859
Great views, we lucked into the perfect weather. Nice ravines to traverse through. With a suspension bridge over the river. Some of the trail is under reconstruction making the route a bit difficult.
My wife and I booked a room for the weekend at the Inn. A wonderful experience! We were greeted by a very gracious young woman behind the reception desk, her name was Rain. We booked ahead by one year which is suggested if you’re stay is on a weekend, and scored a redecorated room. The trails are absolutely awesome. Some of the most beautiful scenery, with views of sandstone clifs with trees growing right out of the moss. Highly recommend you wear appropriate shoes. Leave those white gym shoes at home, waterproof is best. And if the trail rugged expect to be crossing streams. Its hard to find anyone not having a great day here. And again the staff is tremendously welcoming and gracious. We have never camped here but there are spots for tents and even some for motor homes.
What a beautiful and magnificent place! We went there today. The weather was so good. Omg, this State Park is so beautiful. There are lots of fall colors visible there right now. We really enjoyed hiking there. This is the best hiking trail zone we have experienced so far. I would recommend exploring trail 3. The whole trail 3 hiking is a special experience. Notable things to visit Rocky Hollow, Punch Bowl, Falls Canyon, etc. Most of the trails are so good and these will be unique experiences from one another. A beautiful place. If you ever get the chance to visit Indiana, this place is a must visit.
This is by far my favorite State Park in Indiana. We stayed at the INN and had multiple days to explore all the trials. The trails are very interactive. Climbing ladders, getting a little wet, and hiking up little waterfalls might happen. Most trials have stairs. Lots and lots of stairs.
