Ultimate Guide to the 7 Indiana State Park Inns

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Indiana State Park Inns

Indiana State Park Inns are a collection of lodges, hotels, and cabins located throughout the state’s beautiful parks. These inns offer visitors a unique opportunity to stay within the natural beauty of Indiana’s parks while enjoying comfortable amenities such as restaurants, swimming pools, and Wi-Fi access.

Each inn is uniquely designed to reflect the park’s natural surroundings, providing guests with an immersive experience of Indiana’s natural beauty. With a variety of accommodations available, ranging from cozy cabins to spacious suites, Indiana State Park hotels offer the perfect space for a weekend getaway!

Which State Parks in Indiana have Inns?

There are seven state parks in Indiana that have inns, including Brown County State Park, Clifty Falls State Park, McCormick’s Creek State Park, Pokagon State Park, Spring Mill State Park, Fort Harrison State Park, and Turkey Run State Park.

Each of these parks has its own unique inn or lodge, offering visitors a comfortable and immersive experience within the park’s natural surroundings.

1. Brown County State Park

The Abe Martin Lodge at Brown County State Park is a charming rustic lodge located in the heart of Brown County State Park, one of Indiana’s most popular parks.

The inn’s cozy guest rooms, cabins, and suites offer guests comfortable and modern accommodations, featuring wood furnishings and rustic decor to reflect the natural surroundings.

👉 Check rates at availability at the Abe Martin Lodge HERE!

The inn’s amenities include The Little Gem restaurant serving delicious home-cooked meals, several swimming pools, and a game room. One of the amenities that set Abe Martin Lodge apart from other Indiana state park inns is the small indoor waterpark.

Abe Martin Lodge is one of the Indiana State Park Inns

The inn’s location within the park provides guests with easy access to hiking trails, horseback riding, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a corporate retreat (6K feet of banquet & conference space), the Abe Martin Lodge at Brown County State Park is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing escape into nature.

💥 Related post: Shopping & Sipping in Brown County Indiana

2. Clifty Falls State Park

The Clifty Falls Inn is a beautiful lodge located within the Clifty Falls State Park in southeastern Indiana. The inn features 71 comfortable guest rooms and suites that provide guests with breathtaking views of the surrounding park and Ohio River valley.

💥 Insider tip: request a room with a patio or balcony overlooking the Ohio River.

The inn’s amenities include The Falls Restaurant serving delicious homemade food, an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, and a game room. There are also several lovely lounges perfect for hanging out with friends or family or just a good book.

👉 Check availability and prices at The Clifty Inn at Clifty Falls State Park

The location of the inn within the park provides guests with easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and other natural attractions that make Clifty Falls State Park a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Combine your stay with a visit to the charming nearby town of Madison and the Clifty Falls Inn is a convenient place to stay for those seeking to enjoy the town while still escaping into nature and experiencing the beauty of southeastern Indiana.

3. McCormick’s Creek State Park

The Canyon Inn at McCormick’s Creek State Park is the charming McCormick’s Creek State Park hotel located in the heart of Indiana’s oldest and one of the most beloved state parks. The historic inn opened in 1916 (but has had several updates since!), and currently features 76 cozy guest rooms.

Room at the Canyon Inn in McCormick's Creek State Park

👉 Book your stay at the Canyon Inn here for a lovely weekend getaway!

The inn’s amenities include The Canyon Inn Restaurant serving fresh home-style meals, an outdoor swimming pool, and a game room. The location of the inn within the park provides guests with easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and other natural attractions such as Wolf Cave that McCormick’s Creek State Park is famous for.

The Canyon Inn is one of the Indiana State Park Inns

Combine a day of hiking at McCormick’s Creek State Park with a day exploring the nearby town of Spencer for a wonderful couples or family getaway.

💥 Related post: A Perfect Day in Spencer

4. Spring Mill State Park

NOTE: Spring Mill Inn is currently closed for renovations, but will reopen in 1Q24 – that will be a prime time to start booking your visits as it should feel fresh and modern!

The Spring Mill Inn is a historic lodge located within Spring Mill State Park, in southern Indiana. The inn features comfortable guest rooms each uniquely decorated with antique furnishings and rustic charm.

The inn’s amenities include a dining room serving locally sourced cuisine, an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, and a game room. The location of the inn within the park provides guests with easy access to hiking trails, historic sites, and the park’s beautiful lake.

One of the highlights of Spring Mill State Park is the Pioneer Village, a restored 19th-century village featuring working gristmills and other historic buildings. The Spring Mill Inn is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and historic getaway in the heart of Indiana’s natural beauty.

5. Pokagon State Park

The Potawatomi Inn at Pokagon State Park is a beautiful lodge that offers a comfortable and peaceful retreat in the heart of Northern Indiana.

👉 Book your stay at the Potawatomi Inn!

The Pokagon State Park Inn features spacious guest rooms and suites, some of which offer scenic views of Lake James. There are also a number of cabins located around the park for an alternative type of lodging. The lodge’s amenities include a restaurant, a gift shop, an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a fun game room.

The back of the Potawatomi Inn at Pokagon State Park

Guests can also take advantage of the park’s numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The park is home to Indiana’s only refrigerated toboggan run, which is a popular winter attraction.

The Potawatomi Inn is also a popular venue for conferences, weddings, and other special events, with several meeting rooms and event spaces available. Whether visiting for leisure or business, guests will appreciate the inn’s serene setting and warm hospitality.

Room at the Potawatomi Inn at Pokagon State Park

6. Turkey Run State Park

The Turkey Run Inn & Cabins are located within the picturesque Turkey Run State Park in west-central Indiana. The inn features comfortable and modern guest rooms, including suites and a variety of cabins, all designed with natural materials and rustic decor to blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment.

👉 Check availability and rates at the Turkey Run Inn & Cabins HERE!

The inn offers terrific amenities, including a wooden oak lobby with cozy seating around a large stone fireplace, an indoor heated pool, and The Narrows restaurant. The inn’s location within the park provides guests with easy access to the unique hiking trails (some with ladders!), canyons, and other natural attractions that Turkey Run State Park is famous for.

The Turkey Run Inn is an ideal destination year-round for a peaceful and relaxing getaway or family vacation in the heart of Indiana’s natural beauty.

7. Fort Harrison State Park

The Fort Harrison Inn is a beautiful inn located in Fort Harrison State Park, in the city of Indianapolis. The inn features comfortable guest rooms, the Harrison House, and four officer homes for a variety of unique accommodations.

The inn’s amenities include a complimentary continental breakfast for the main lodge guests and a location near The Fort Golf Course. The Garrison restaurant offers additional dining options.

👉 Check rates and availability at The Fort Harrison Inn here

The location of the inn within the park provides guests with easy access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and other recreational facilities, plus it’s a short drive to downtown Indianapolis if you want to explore city life too! One of the highlights of Fort Harrison State Park is the Fort Harrison Golf Course, a championship-level course designed by renowned architect Pete Dye.

The Fort Harrison Inn is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and convenient getaway in the heart of Indianapolis and would make a lovely alternative place to stay when visiting the city.

FAQs about Indiana State Park Inns

Staying at an Indiana State Park inn is a bit different than your typical stay at a standard chain hotel or motel, so here are answers to a few frequently asked questions that will help you fully enjoy your visit.

Are the Indiana State Park Inns nice?

All of the Indiana State Park Inns are well-maintained and in lovely settings. However, it’s important to remember that they are not fancy boutique hotels. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and have a rustic charm, but don’t expect 5-star service or amenities.

💥 To get a feel for what they are like, check out my review on the Potawatomi Inn at Pokagon State Park.

Is there a senior discount for Indiana State Park Inns?

Yes, Indiana State Park Inns sometimes offer a senior discount for guests who are 65 years or older. Ask when you book if it is currently being offered. To avail of the discount, you must provide valid identification with proof of age at the time of check-in.

Is alcohol allowed in Indiana State Parks?

Alcohol is allowed in designated areas of most Indiana state parks (strictly prohibited at Indiana Dunes State Park). You are not allowed to bring or consume alcohol in public areas such as beaches, picnic areas, or hiking trails.

However, alcohol consumption is allowed in some spots such as campsites and designated picnic shelters. It’s important to note that the rules and regulations regarding alcohol consumption may vary by park, and it’s always a good idea to check with the specific park for their policies.

Additionally, you are responsible for ensuring that they comply with all state and local laws regarding alcohol consumption, including underage drinking.

Is it affordable to stay at the Indiana State Park Inns?

It is affordable to stay at an Indiana State Park Inn. The room rates at Indiana State Park Inns vary depending on the season, the location, and the type of accommodation chosen. However, the rates are generally reasonable and competitive with other lodging options in the area.

In addition, Indiana State Park Inns offer various packages and promotions throughout the year, such as discounted rates for longer stays and midweek stays, as well as special rates for seniors and military personnel.

By taking advantage of these packages and promotions, you can enjoy a comfortable and affordable stay at an Indiana State Park Inn while enjoying the beauty and amenities of the surrounding state park.

Are there ever any discounts for Indiana State Park Inns?

Indiana State Park Inns offer a variety of discounts and promotions throughout the year, including discounts for military personnel. I often see winter promotions with 2-for-1 nights when booked Sunday through Thursday as well as various multi-night % off promotions. It’s always a good idea to check with the specific park inn for available discounts and promotions before booking a stay.

What is the best time of the year to stay at an Indiana State Park Inn?

The best time to stay at an Indiana State Park Inn depends on personal preferences and the activities one is interested in. However, generally, the best time to visit an Indiana State Park and stay at one of its inns is during the late spring, summer, and early fall months. During this time, the weather is generally mild and conducive to outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing.

💥 The exception would be the Potawatomi Inn at Pokagon State Park if you want to enjoy the toboggan as it’s only open from late November through February.

The parks natural beauty is also at its peak during these months, with vibrant foliage in the fall and blooming flowers in the spring and summer. Additionally, many of the state parks and nearby towns offer various events and activities during this time, such as festivals, concerts, and outdoor movies.

However, you might prefer to visit during the winter months for activities such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Ultimately, the best time to visit an Indiana State Park Inn depends on your interests and preferences.

Conclusion: Indiana State Park Inns

In conclusion, Indiana State Park Inns offer a unique and immersive experience for anyone who wants to connect with nature while enjoying comfortable lodging and modern amenities.

Each inn is located within a beautiful state park, offering easy access to hiking trails, lakes, and other recreational activities. The inns themselves are charming and comfortable, with a variety of accommodations to suit different needs and preferences. From historic lodges to modern cabins and suites, guests can choose the type of accommodation that best suits their style and budget.

With affordable rates and various discounts and promotions throughout the year, staying at an Indiana State Park Inn is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of Indiana and create lasting memories.