Turkey Run State Park and Rocky Hollow Falls Canyon Nature Preserve

 nature preserve, state park, National Natural Landmark

www.turkeyrunstatepark.com/

The first parcel of Turkey Run State Park's 2,382 acres was purchased during our State's centennial in 1916 when the State Park system was first established. Turkey Run is Indiana's second state park.

There are many legends about how Turkey Run got its name. One story says that wild turkeys, finding it warmer in the canyon bottoms, or "runs", would often huddle in these runs to avoid the cold. Pioneer hunters would herd the turkeys through these natural funnels into a central location for an easy harvest. Since historic accounts suggest that large numbers of turkeys lived here, it follows that turkeys in the runs prompted the area's name, Turkey Run.

Beautiful Turkey Run State Park has something for everyone to enjoy:
Hiking trails to bridle trails...
Camp sites to historic sites...
Nature center to conference center...
Deep canyons nestled in the shadows of sandstone cliffs and peaceful hemlock groves are some of the most ruggedly beautiful hiking trails in the state. You'll enjoy exploring the area by foot or on a horseback ride.

hiking in Turkey Run State ParkFlowing through the heart of the park, scenic Sugar Creek is a wonderful resource for canoeing and fishing. The river itself stands as a remnant of the forces that shaped the area.

Sugar Creek is one of Indiana's most popular canoe streams. At least three local Liveries serve this area.

On the long, hot days of Indiana's summers, there's no place better than Turkey Run. Enjoy a day of lunching, playing and relaxing at a picnic area, or cool off in their Olympic-size swimming pool.

In the last few hundred years, the wind and water erosion of the sandstone has continued at a slower pace. The gorges are very similar to what was seen by Native Americans and pioneers. Learn more about this area's geology, flora, fauna and more at the Nature Center.

From the tiny mosses and ferns to the majestic old-growth walnuts and sycamores, lush plant communities thrive at the park, supporting an abundance of wildlife.

Deer tracks, beaver-chewed trees, pileated woodpecker excavations, and the rocking flight of the turkey vulture, are all common sights throughout the year at this great park.

Do you know how Turkey Run State Park got its name? Check out more on the park's history to find out. Since it's Indiana's second state park, you won't be surprised to find that the park has many historic sites to explore.

Turkey Run State Park, the campground, and the Turkey Run Inn are all open year round. Some other activities may be closed or limited in the winter. Whenever you visit Turkey Run there is just too much to explore in one day, so relax and stay the night. Enjoy the luxury of rooms at the Turkey Run Inn, or "rough it" at the campground.

The park was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 14, 2019.