Attractions
Hoosier National Forest – 12 minutes, we are located at the foothills of 200,000 acres and 266 miles of hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking trails.
Allen’s Creek Boat Ramp – 12 minutes, boat ramp for Lake Monroe, great place to fish and hang out in lawn chairs or rafts and kayak. In summer this is a busy hang out area for boaters.
Deam Wilderness – 13 minutes, my favorite hiking, Patton Cave, lots of ravines and creeks, cool to hike in summer, but easy to get lost must be prepared with compass.
Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower – one of my fav things to do each year is climb this 110 foot tall tower with 133 steps. Once at the top you can see a 360 degree view of three counties. Absolutely breathtaking.
Hardin Ridge State Rec Area – Over 260 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding or biking. My fav is the Allen’s Creek trail, 4 miles roundtrip (roughly two hours) to tip of Allen’s Creek and wonderful views of Lake Monroe. Moderate trail some hills.
Paynetown State Rec Area – 14 min, Lake Monroe boat rentals, marina, beach, Lake Monroe is Indiana’s largest lake. You can rent anything from kayaks to large double-decker pontoon boats. There is an admission fee here, $7 per car Indiana, out-of-state $10.
Bluesprings Caverns – 25 minutes, features a famous boat ride through the longest river cave in the country and gemstone mining. April-October.
Spring Mill State Park – South 40 minutes, Working Pioneer Village open May-October, Twin Caves tour, Donaldson Cave, Virgil Grissom astronaut memorial, Spring Mill Inn and restaurant, endless recreation.
Pinegrove State Rec Area – 18 min, Lake Monroe, this is one of my favorite places to kayak, it is a nature preserve/bird sanctuary and many times will see an Eagle perched. Lots of unique types of wildlife here and very shallow so it is safe. Many can fish while a few go out on water.