Well, it’s been the summer of outdoor adventures! This week, I’m sharing with you the best hidden outdoor adventure in Eastern Indiana. I’ve lived in Indiana most of my life and traveled it pretty extensively, but this summer I’m discovering there are some really amazing State Parks I didn’t know about! Whitewater Memorial State Park in Eastern Indiana is one of them.
Covering 23,000 acres, Whitewater Memorial State Park was established as a memorial to local American soldiers who lost their lives in World War I and World War II. It’s one of Indiana’s 25 state parks, and definitely one of the largest.
If you love hidden outdoor adventures, then visiting this State Park should be added to your list. It’s approximately 2 hours from Indianapolis, and only an hourish from Dayton, Ohio. The drive itself is lovely, with rolling hills, lots of trees and quaint small towns.
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Liberty, Indiana
The nearest town is Liberty, Indiana which is the home of the Union County courthouse. What a beautiful building. Even though we were anxious to get to the park, we stopped in town to walk around the square.
In addition to the lovely courthouse, the town square boasts the Templeton Log Cabin built in 1805. Liberty also has a few local restaurants (a must try once we feel comfortable eating out again), a bakery, and several antique type shops.
Whitewater Memorial State Park
The first stop upon entering Whitewater Memorial State Park is the horse campground and stable. As it was a hot day and water was calling our name, we bypassed that area and headed to the beach.
I was delighted to discover that the beach was not very crowded, and the families that were enjoying it were doing a great job of social distancing. As it was lunchtime, this was the perfect spot for a simple and delicious picnic.
Next on the agenda was checking out the lake. Having lived on a lake before, we are definitely lake people. Whitewater Lake is beautiful! Located right in the park, as an undeveloped lakefront enjoying it is best done on the water. This lake does allow electric motors, but we opted for arm power instead.
We rented a few kayaks and took turns paddling around the lake – Bernie was along for the trip, so someone had to stay with him and relax under a shaded tree with a cold drink. Pretty sweet setup there too! In addition to renting kayaks, the park also has paddleboats available to rent and those looked like a great way to explore also. Next time!
Insider tip: bring along water shoes and a change of clothes. We learned this the hard way on our recent trip to Falls Gorge Nature Preserve. We were better prepared this time!
Whitewater Memorial State Park has a few hiking trails, and the one we checked out is the 2.5 mile Memorial Loop. Even though it was a very hot day, the trail is so shaded that it felt a good 10 degrees cooler. Everything is super green right now so not only was it a relaxing (easy) trail, it was also incredibly beautiful, and a nice contrast to our lake time.
Brookville Lake
Although it was easy to spend an afternoon at the state park, with more time, I would suggest heading down to Brookville Lake and checking out the action there. Brookville Lake is a little more developed, with several marinas and the options to rent larger boats (even houseboats). The area had a real “lake-town” vibe and I wish we’d had more time to explore it.
Right on the water, we saw Ainsley’s Cafe, which looked like the perfect way to end a day on the lake. A delicious meal and cold beverage overlooking the water sounds like perfection, right? Right next door is Kent’s Harbor Marina where you can rent a boat. We had to pass on both this trip, but they will be a must-visit next time.
Both Whitewater Memorial State Park and Brookville Lake were well worth the drive from Indy. Now that we’ve discovered this hidden outdoor gem in Eastern Indiana, I guarantee we’ll be back soon – hopefully for an overnight adventure!
Do you love local adventures? Me too! Check out these five unique and fun Indiana weekend getaways for more everyday Midwest adventures!
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I have driven through Indiana but haven’t stopped. This looks like a great trip and not a big hassle. Thanks for sharing. And love the inclusion of your dog!
Super simple way to spend an afternoon – or even weekend. Bernie always thinks he should come so we bring him as often as possible!
I’m starting to discover more state parks too. Whitewater looks like the perfect place to take the family! Brookville Lake seems awesome too! What a great trip!
It was a really fun day – perfect weather to be near water.
I love a great place for a picnic. Thank you for sharing.
Anytime!
I love that we are all discovering our own states. There is so much to do in each state. This looks an awesome day out in Indiana.
I agree! There really is something to do everywhere.
Indiana certainly offers quite a bit. I am really enjoying all that you get to do there. This spot certainly does not disappoint!
Nope, it doesn’t! The state has a ton to offer.
What a beautiful area. I love that there is so much recreation areas!
I agree – a nice variety is always a bonus!
It is the perfect time to visit state and national parks. This looks like a very peaceful and relaxing place to visit.
Yep, it is a good one!
This looks like a wonderful state park! I love parks that hiking and a beach – it’s the best of both worlds!
Right?
It seems like this summer has been the summer to visit parks closer to home. What a great opportunity to explore places we may have overlooked because we were looking for excitement further afield (or maybe that’s just me ;). I love the idea of renting a houseboat on Brookville Lake, and then making a day trip into Whitewater Memorial State Park.
I do agree – I think many of us have learned this summer that there is so much to do nearby. Which I have always truly believed in – hence my Explore Indiana series!
Water sports and a sandy beach are heaven to me! I love that there are walking trails as well, and that courthouse is so stately! Great destination!
Me too! If I can hike, learn a little and visit a great restaurant, winery or brewery, I’m in heaven!
Loving your series of Indiana posts…and would love to check out this state park for hiking and kayaking. And that courthouse is so beautiful…it reminds me of the one in my hometown in Iowa. Stunning architecture!
Thanks! I’ve really enjoyed the Indiana State Parks we’ve visited this summer. I also love all the courthouses we’ve seen over the past year. We always look for them in each county we visit.
Beautiful park. Looks like there is so much to do and I like that it’s pet friendly.
There is a lot to do – and we always bring Bernie if we can. He likes to be included!
This looks really pretty and inviting!
Thanks!
We’ve been looking for a good beach area. This would be a great day trip destination for us.
It is the perfect day trip!
Looks like a wonderful place to spend the day!
It was such a lovely day.