OUTDOOR RECREATION
Let’s Get Outside and Have Some Fun!
Outdoor recreation in Southern Indiana is simply the best! Nestled in rolling, tree-covered hills, our lakes, rivers, golf courses, campgrounds, and caves offer the perfect backdrop to refresh your body and soul like nowhere else.
We’ve curated some of our favorite outdoor activities to help you build your own adventure and unplug. Love golf? Sultan’s Run is a breathtaking 18-hole, par-72 championship course with a 4.5-star rating from Golf Digest. Prefer to hike or bike? Many of the destinations below are ideal for exploring on two feet—or two wheels.
The best part? You don’t have to choose just one activity. Southern Indiana is naturally designed for outdoor fun, and everything is just a short drive away. Browse below to find your starting point for a memorable outdoor getaway.
West Boggs Park is the perfect family escape with a 622-acre lake for top-notch fishing, 145 campsites for tents and RVs, and endless activities for all ages. Play a round of putt-putt or disc golf, paddle a kayak, hit the trails, or catch a concert under the stars. Stop by the Activity Center for crafts, games, and movie nights—there’s always something fun happening here!
Address
16117 US-231, Loogootee, IN 47553
Phone
812-295-3421
Camp overnight or spend a day at the beach at Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area. Two picnic shelters are available for reservation. The beach has a modern bathhouse. Tipsaw Lake offers paddling, fishing and boating (electric motors only) opportunities. Bike or hike a 5.9 mile trail around the lake.
Address
21387 Old State Rd 37, Tell City, IN 47586
Phone
877-444-6777
Whether you are planning a group fishing/hunting trip or Family Vacation/Reunion, The Cove property is the perfect choice for a quiet comfortable retreat. The Cove is located on the Quiet Side of Patoka Lake so you can enjoy the serenity of Mother Nature and get away from it all. It is 30 seconds from the Little Patoka Boat Ramp.
Address
5904 W. Little Patoka Rd., Taswell, IN 47175
Phone
812-338-3296
Tucked away in the heart of Southern Indiana, Sycamore Springs Park is a true hidden gem for families, nature lovers, and weekend wanderers. With everything from cozy cabins, primitive tent sites to full hookup RV spots, you can stay a night or a week with all the comforts of home. Located in English, Indiana, the park blends peaceful scenery with non-stop family fun.
Address
717 West Tunnel Hill Rd., English, IN 47118
Phone
812-338-3846
Discover the underground wonder of Marengo Cave, one of Indiana’s most exciting natural attraction adventurers of all ages! Travel 2 easy walking tours through this U.S. National Landmark. It’s stunning otherworldly passageways are filled with amazing formations Whether you’re joining a guided walking tour.
Address
100 Squire Boone Rd, Mauckport, IN 47142
Phone
812-732-4381
Let family fun, adventure, history and nature come alive all at the same time at Spring Mill State Park! Explore a historic Pioneer Village powered by cave springs, hike scenic trails, and tour Twin Caves by boat. Don’t miss the Grissom Memorial and fun activities at the Lakeview Activity Center—it’s a journey through time and nature all in one stop!
Address
3333 State Road 60 E., Mitchell, IN 47446
Phone
800-457-8283
TEnjoy peace and quiet at the Saddle Lake Recreation Area’s primitive campground, use the boat ramp for the lake or the hiking trail. This scenic, somewhat remote lake, which is one of four flood-control lakes, is an excellent place to get away from crowds, and you will often have the place to yourself!
Address
Tell City, IN 47586
Phone
812-547-7051
With nearly 26,000 acres of land and water, Patoka Lake is a fine example of lake ecology. The 8,800-acre lake is home to freshwater jellyfish, bald eagle nesting sites, river otters, osprey, an ambassador raptors, an albino common snapping turtle and a red-tailed hawk. Programs on wildlife, kayaking, cooking with a Dutch oven, and other outdoor skills are offered.
Address
3084 N. Dillard Rd., Birdseye, IN 47513
Phone
812-338-5589
Experience the magic of Patoka Lake Marina and Lodging, where you can stay in unique floating cabins right on the water. Enjoy boat rentals, fishing, and unforgettable lake views—all in the heart of Southern Indiana’s natural beauty.
Address
2991 North Dillard Road, Birdseye, IN 47513
Phone
812-685-2203
There are more than 500 campsites in three different campgrounds, so one is sure to be perfect for your Patoka Lake Camping adventure. These super popular campgrounds surround an 8,800-acre lake. Amenities include hiking and biking trails, boating, jet ski rentals, swimming, volleyball court, archery and a ball field.
Address
3084 North Dillard Rd., Birdseye, IN 47513
Phone
812-338-5589