story by GLENDA WINDERS
Parke County offers several opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and get exercise at the same time. What’s your outdoor pleasure? Boating, swimming, fishing, exploring surroundings forests, or hiking on trails? It’s all here.
Perhaps you’ll choose Turkey Run State Park, where you can check into the rustic Turkey Run Inn or a nearby cabin. If you’d rather, set up camp in one of the 212 sites, most with electricity. Then you’re off to start your adventure.
Hiking is a favorite thing to do here because of the deep sandstone canyons and ravines, aged forests, and scenic views along Sugar Creek. With more than 14 miles of trails that range from easy to rugged, there is place for everyone, regardless of skill level. To get to many trails you will cross a suspension bridge, and beyond that the ancient geological sites begin to appear.
If hiking isn’t your thing, plenty else is available to do. Fishing is allowed in Sugar Creek or take an escorted horseback ride that leaves from the saddle barn. Swimming and tennis are other possibilities. Be sure and make a stop at Leiber Cabin, built in 1848 and moved in 1918 to Turkey Run State Park. Finally, tubing, canoeing, and kayaking on Sugar Creek through Turkey Run State Park is almost as popular as hiking here.
Nearby Raccoon Lake encompasses 2,060 acres and is 11 miles long, so fishing and boating are both popular pastimes. Rent or bring your own speedboat, pontoon, wave runner, wakeboard, paddleboard, or kayak. Bicycles are also available if you prefer to stay on dry land. Hiking will take you past native forests and large rock outcrops along the upper part of Big Raccoon Creek.
Pay a visit to the nearby historic Mansfield Roller Mill. Or pop over to Bridgeton to visit the Bridgeton Mill, a working gristmill that’s been in operation since 1823. See a live demonstration of how flour and cornmeal are made. Drop a line in Big Raccoon Creek for some fishing and take a tour of the authentic 1822 Log Cabin.
While in western Parke County don’t miss Montezuma and take a stroll across the Railroad Bridge for some scenic views of the Wabash River. Montezuma features a boat launch area where you can enjoy fishing and boating on the Wabash River. Learn how the Erie Canal played a part in early Parke County history.
At Rockville Lake Park, pitch your tent or drive in your RV as your base for staying active in nature. It is quiet here because electric trolling motors are the only ones allowed on the water. Fish for bass, crappie, catfish, or redear alone or take part in a tournament. A 125-foot accessible pier makes taking part in the fun available for everyone, and a playground will keep the smaller members of your party entertained.
Fishing not your favorite? Try disc golf on the truly unusual 18-hole course that winds through the forest so that you can hike, soak up the green around you and play a game all at the same time. Also different from other courses is that these baskets have two sets of tee pads to accommodate all skill levels.
If you want to do something more rigorous, check out the basketball and volleyball courts and the soccer fields. Hiking trails take you past native trees and understory vegetation where you can view plants and maybe encounter animals that make this park their home.
For more information visit: www.coveredbridges.com
