If you’re looking for a location filled with plenty of family-friendly activities, you’ve come to the right place. Turkey Run State Park is a great place for families to go on vacation. It's got plenty of hiking trails, horseback riding opportunities, water sports, and more. It's also just minutes away from some of the best restaurants in Indiana. 

Planning a Turkey Run State Park camping trip? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with all the information you’ll need to plan a perfect trip to Turkey Run State Park. 

Turkey Run State Park Facts

Before you head out on your Turkey Run State Park camping trip, you may want to brush up on your Turkey Run State Park facts. Read on to learn more about the park’s rich history.  

• Turkey Run State Park has the only natural bridge in Indiana.

• With over 25 miles of trails for hiking through Turkey Run State Park, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

• The park is home to Turkey Run Inn, a historic resort built in 1885 with cabins and dining. It’s one of the best places in the state to enjoy some real Indiana ice cream.

• Turkey Creek Trail follows Turkey Creek as it winds through the campground, so you can enjoy the soothing sounds of water on your hike. 

• Turkey Run offers visitors plenty of opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming (in an outdoor pool), kayaking, canoeing, and mountain biking. 

One last fact about Turkey Run State Park? It's one of the most popular places to go RV camping in Indiana!

Best Turkey Run State Park RV Parks and Campgrounds 

RV camping is a great way to enjoy Turkey Run State Park. But which Turkey Run State Park RV campground should you call home for the night?

Turkey Run State Park Campground

Amenities: The first thing you should know about Turkey Run State Park is that it actually has two campgrounds. But more campsites don’t always mean more time to book your trip.  These sites book up fast, especially during the summer months! Turkey Run State Park Campground is one that's open year-round, while Turkey Ridge will only be available from May through September each year.

At both Turkey Run and Turkey Ridge, you'll find campsites with electrical hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, and modern bathrooms. There’s also a camp store on the grounds stocked with wood, food, and more. You’ll have just about everything you need to get the most out of your camping trip.

The camp store is open from Memorial Day weekend through the first weekend of November at the following times: 

Monday – Thursday 10 am – 8:30 pm

Friday & Saturday 10 am – 9 pm

closed Sunday

Campground Rates

Here are the Turkey Run State Park camping rates from late April through early November.

Electric (Class A) Campsites

$23 Sunday-Wednesday

$30 Thursday-Saturday

$33 Holiday Weekends

All visitors to Turkey Run State Park, including campers, are required to pay a one-time entrance fee.

Capacity: 213 RV sites

More Information: Turkey Run State Park Campground

Peaceful Waters Campground

Amenities: Campers looking to enjoy a Turkey Run State Park RV camping trip without pitching their own tent can stay on one of Peaceful Waters Campground's RV sites. Peaceful Waters Campground sites include 30/50 amp hookups, free Wi-Fi, fire rings, picnic tables, shower houses, and a free dump station. The campground also offers two small ponds for fishing as well as canoes and paddleboards to rent.  

Capacity: 60 RV sites

More Information: Peaceful Waters Campground

Rockville Lake Park

Amenities: Rockville Lake Park Campground offers both modern and primitive sites, so you can choose your campground style for your Turkey Run State Park RV camping trip. Modern sites feature electric hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables. There is also a convenient dumping station located right on the property.

Known as a great place to camp for families, this RV park near Turkey Run State Park includes playgrounds, a pool, and holiday activities for every season. This is the perfect campground for camping with kids!

Capacity: 166 RV sites

More Information: Rockville Lake Park

Covered Bridge Campground

Amenities: Covered Bridge Campground is a more modern campground, with full hookups available across the park. It's located right near Turkey Run State Park property, so campers can easily explore the trails and go biking with a quick walk from their campground.

Campsites at this beautiful RV park offer water, electric hookups, sewer, and more. The park provides showers and restroom facilities for all campers. There is also a camp store on the property that offers a variety of supplies to help make your trip as enjoyable as possible. 

Capacity: 73 RV sites

More Information: Covered Bridge Campground

Crawfordsville KOA Journey

Amenities: The last RV park on our list for your Turkey Run State Park camping trip is the Crawfordsville KOA Journey. Most RV travelers know that the KOA is a great place to stay if you're looking for a reliable RV camping experience. The Crawfordsville KOA is located about 20 minutes from Turkey Run State Park and is a great place to base your Turkey Run camping trip.

This campground features full hookups, free Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly sites, as well as a swimming pool and hot tub.

Capacity: 61 RV sites

More Information: Crawfordsville KOA Journey

Now that you have seen some of the best Turkey Run State Park RV sites, it’s time to discuss the best time to visit the park!

Best Time To Visit Turkey Run State Park for RV Camping

Turkey Run State Park is open for visitors year-round, so you’ll have your pick of when to go. Many campers have found that the best time for an RV camping trip near Turkey Run State Park is from April through October, but we’ll let you decide for yourself.

Turkey Run says that the best time to visit Turkey Creek Trail, in particular, is from March through November when all parts of the trail are passable due to dry weather conditions.

Winter

The winter climate at Turkey Run State Park can be unpredictable, especially when it comes to Turkey Creek Trail. The trail may be closed during the winter months due to snow and ice formation on parts of the path, so plan accordingly if this hike is on your bucket list. Campers may see highs sitting at roughly 40 degrees Fahrenheit while the nighttime temperatures can drop well below 20 degrees in this area. 

If you’re all for winter camping, you’ll want to pack extra layers and dress for cold weather conditions while hiking Turkey Creek Trail in order to avoid frostbite. This is because there isn't much shelter from windy elements along certain portions of Turkey Creek Trail's course through Turkey Run State Park.

Spring

Spring can be one of the best times to visit Turkey Run State Park if you don’t mind a little rain and mud. March and April will see highs of 50 to 60 degrees while May can reach well into the 70s during the daytime. You’ll still want to pack extra layers for the colder nights as temperatures can still drop into the 30s when the sun sets. 

Some parts of Turkey Creek Trail may be flooded with water or have standing pools in them when it rains heavily. This means hikers should bring proper footwear for hiking Turkey Creek Trail whether they're visiting Turkey Run State Park in the wintertime or the springtime seasons.

Summer

Visiting Turkey Run State Park during the summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching well into the 80s during the day. Luckily, there are a few places to cool off as you canoe, paddleboard, or swim. These sunny months often draw in much larger crowds since the park boasts so many fun summer activities. You’ll want to book well in advance if summer is when you decide to go.  

Fall 

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Turkey Run State Park, fall is a great option. Turkey Run State Park is most lovely in autumn as the leaves begin to change. The crowds begin to diminish as school starts back up, but the weather stays warm enough to still enjoy many of the park’s activities. 

Fall temperatures are typically in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit at Turkey Run State Park, with a few colder days here and there. Visitors may want to pack a jacket or windbreaker as Turkey Run State Park can get breezy.

Things To Do in Turkey Run State Park

You have RV camping reserved, and you've selected the season to visit. Now it’s time to discover some fun things to do at Turkey Run State Park.  

• Explore Turkey Creek Trail: Turkey Creek Trail is a scenic hiking trail that winds along the banks of Sugar Creek. It's a great place to spot wildlife, enjoy the calming sounds of flowing water, and take in the beauty of the park's natural surroundings. Don't forget your hiking boots and camera for this adventure!

• Learn About Wildlife: The park's wildlife center is a fascinating place to visit. It's open year-round and provides an educational experience for the whole family. You can discover more about the diverse plant and animal species that call Turkey Run State Park home.

• Experience Turkey Run Chalets: If you're looking for a more upscale lodging option, consider staying in one of the Turkey Run Chalets. These charming cabins are nestled within the park and offer a cozy and private retreat surrounded by nature's beauty.

• Ice Fest: If your visit coincides with the winter season, don't miss the annual Ice Fest. This family-friendly event celebrates the beauty of winter and often features ice carving demonstrations, ice skating, and hot cocoa stations. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the park's winter wonderland.

• Capture the Moment: Turkey Run State Park is full of picturesque spots for photography enthusiasts. Snap a selfie or capture the stunning scenery, especially at locations like the small waterfall and the Anvil Rock observation deck. Share your adventures and the park's natural beauty with friends and family.

• Water Activities: When the weather is warm, take advantage of the water activities offered near Turkey Run State Park. Many RV parks in the area provide kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals. Paddling along Sugar Creek is a relaxing and immersive way to experience the park's landscape from a different perspective.

• Picnicking and Relaxation: There are numerous picnic areas scattered throughout the park. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal in the great outdoors. Listen to the sounds of the forest, watch for wildlife, and relish the serenity that Turkey Run State Park provides.

• Attend Ranger-Led Programs: Check the park's schedule for ranger-led programs and interpretive hikes. These programs can enhance your understanding of the park's geology, history, and ecology. It's an educational opportunity that adds depth to your visit.

• Stargazing: Turkey Run State Park is located in a relatively rural area with limited light pollution, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. On clear nights, bring your telescope or simply lay out a blanket and gaze at the stars and constellations that adorn the night sky.

• Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, be sure to bring your gear. Sugar Creek offers excellent angling opportunities for a variety of fish species. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, casting your line into the creek can be a relaxing and enjoyable activity.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Turkey Run State Park has a wide range of activities to make your visit memorable. Be sure to plan your itinerary based on your interests and the time of year you choose to explore this beautiful natural oasis.

This is just the surface of all there is to do when RV camping near Turkey Run State Park. Head over to this beautiful location and see for yourself what other fun activities you can try!

Best Hiking in Turkey Run State Park

Turkey Run State Park is a hidden gem for hiking enthusiasts. Known for its rugged terrain, deep sandstone ravines, and stunning vistas, it offers some of the best hiking experiences in the Midwest. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, Turkey Run has trails that cater to all levels of hikers. Here are some of the best hiking opportunities the park has to offer:

The Ladders

This iconic trail is a must-visit for anyone coming to Turkey Run. It's famous for its ladders and offers a thrilling hiking experience as you navigate steep ravines and cliffs. The ladders are wooden structures that help you climb up or down the steepest sections of the trail, adding an extra element of adventure. Be prepared to scramble over rocks and cross small streams as you explore this challenging yet rewarding trail.

The Punch Bowl

If you're looking for a hike that leads you through lush forests and along sandstone cliffs, Trail 4 is an excellent choice. It takes you to the Punch Bowl, a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering rock walls. This spot is perfect for a rest or a picnic as you take in the serene beauty of the park.

Rocky Hollow and Falls Canyon Nature Preserve

Trail 9 takes you on a journey through the rugged Rocky Hollow and Falls Canyon Nature Preserve. You'll encounter multiple stream crossings, scenic waterfalls, and the enchanting beauty of moss-covered rocks and ferns. This trail is relatively less crowded than some of the others, making it an ideal option for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.

Bear Hollow

As the name suggests, Trail 11 in Turkey Run State Park leads you through the secluded and picturesque Bear Hollow. This trail offers a quieter hiking experience, with dense woodlands and peaceful creek crossings. It's an excellent choice for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts.

Gypsy Gulch and Suspension Bridge

Trail 2 is a moderate hike that takes you to one of the park's suspension bridges, offering stunning views of Sugar Creek. This trail is less strenuous compared to some of the others, making it a great option for families and those looking for a more relaxed hiking experience.

The Narrows Covered Bridge

For a shorter and easier hike, Trail 5 is a delightful choice. It leads to the historic Narrows Covered Bridge, a charming relic of the past. Along the way, you'll pass through tranquil forests and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this beautiful area.

Before embarking on your hiking adventure in Turkey Run State Park, make sure to check trail conditions and weather forecasts and follow park guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you're drawn to challenging terrain, serene forest walks, or captivating natural features, Turkey Run State Park has it all, making it one of the best hiking destinations in the Midwest.

Tips for Visiting Turkey Run State Park

 

No camping trip is complete without at least a handful of helpful tips to get you through the vacation. We’ve outlined a few must-know tips and tricks to keep in mind as you head out for your Turkey Run State Park RV camping trip.  

• Turkey Run State Park is a popular park for all types of outdoor activities. Turkey Creek Trail can be pretty crowded when it's nice out, so if you're visiting Turkey Run State Park in the summertime or fall season — try to go early!

• April through November may not be ideal times to hike Turkey Creek Trail due to inclement weather conditions and high levels of humidity during those months.

• Turkey Creek Trail can flood with water quickly after heavy rainfall too, which means visitors should make sure they wear appropriate footwear while hiking Turkey Creek Trail.

• Climbing Anvil Rock requires some physical strength as well — this isn't a climb that beginners can complete easily!

• Finally, the last tip for RV campers is to follow Turkey Run State Park's rules and regulations. Don't litter, follow all posted signs, and make sure to check-in at the trailhead when you visit Turkey Creek Trail. 

Feeling ready to hit the road yet? If so, it’s time to grab your RV and go! 

RV Rental for Turkey Run State Park

When you’re ready to book your trip, Cruise America has everything you’ll need to find a perfect RV rental near Turkey Run State Park. Travel in style and comfort with one of our many RV options. Cruise America can provide you with a high-quality RV rental for your upcoming camping trip to Turkey Run State Park!

Contact our team at Cruise America today and we'll help you get started planning the vacation of a lifetime in Turkey Run State Park!