Here in Lawrence County, among the rolling hills of Southern Indiana, you’ll discover outdoor treasures not found anywhere else. Caves and caverns, limestone formations, pioneer history, astronaut artifacts and hiking at all levels, are all waiting for you to explore. Close to home, “Limestone Country” is 1-1/2 hours south of Indianapolis, 1-1/2 hours north of Louisville and 2-1/2 hours west of Cincinnati.
Spring Mill State Park
This beautiful Indiana State Park is different from the others. Within the park, visit the Grissom Memorial, a museum dedicated to Hoosier Astronaut Virgil I. ‘Gus’ Grissom, featuring hundreds of NASA artifacts. Step back in time at Pioneer Village, where a massive grist mill is the centerpiece of this working historic community. Take the Twin Caves underground boat tour, and discover underground creatures that have never seen the light of day. With a unique combination of rugged and easy trails among limestone terrain, scenic landscapes and shady woods, there is hiking for every level.
Pioneer Village
Also at Spring Mill State Park, you can step back into time and experience the great outdoors like they did in the 1860s. The Pioneer Village is a living history experience that features a massive water-powered grist mill among 20 historic buildings, showcasing tradecrafts and occupations typical of this time. Indiana’s early days come to life as interpreters in period dress demonstrate daily pioneer living.
Bluespring Caverns Park
At 100 feet underground, take a boat ride on a subterranean river. At 53 degrees year-round, what a great place to beat the heat during summer. Check out the rare blind cave fish and crawfish during your tour-guided ride. For even more adventure, schedule a 3-hour guided kayak tour or trek to explore Indiana’s largest sinkhole.
Williams Covered Bridge
Indiana’s longest double span covered bridge, open to foot or bike traffic only, extends across the East Fork of White River. Built in 1884, this 402-foot covered bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a must see.
Camping
Spring Mill State Park and Lawrence Recreational Park offer primitive to Motorhome camp sites and a long list of amenities.
Lodging
We have a variety of lodging options to provide the perfect overnight stay for you. Check out our favorite local overnight lodgings or Airbnb homes.
Spring Mill State Park Inn is currently closed for renovations and will reopen in late 2024.
Hiking
From rugged paths along wooded limestone terrain to easy paved paths, every level of hiker can trek through Lawrence County.
Fishing
Local favorite, Tincher Pond, is a quiet body of water tucked into Hoosier National Forest. Cast a line, and fish the day away.
Biking
The rolling hills in Lawrence County provide a joy ride with epic scenery. Rent a mountain bike at Spring Mill State Park or bring your own to cross Williams Covered Bridge or to bike along the Milwaukee Trail.
Canoeing/Kayaking
Rent a canoe, kayak, rowboat or paddleboat, and explore the waters of Spring Mill State Park. If you bring your own, there are plenty of boat launches along the White River.
Caving
Beneath the surface, there are underground waterways carved into limestone caverns. Take a guided boat ride and explore beneath the surface at Bluespring Caverns and Twin Caves.
Hunting
Challenge your bunch to a hunting competition at Sugar Creek Hunting Preserve. Try trap and skeet shooting, European-style pheasant hunts and more.
Golfing
Stonecrest Golf Community offers golfers 27 holes on three courses. Otis Park Golf Course is one of the best municipal golf courses in Indiana, and features unique Limestone structures.
