Shades State Park

"Here is another great Indiana State Park. My husband and I went on an overcast, soggy Saturday, and basically had the place to ourselves. We had limited time, so we didn't get to hike every trail. There are shorter trails here, so it wouldn't be difficult to do them all. Lots and lots of steps, some with pretty steep ascents and descents, so may be harder for littles. This park is just a short drive from Turkey Run. If you have to, they both could be visited on the same day. However, to get the full experience of both and not be rushed, I would recommend they are visited on different days."

"Scenic ravines, less traveled than Turkuy Run. The trails marked "rugged" are definitely challenging and not child friendly. There are a lot of stairs and even some ladders leading up and down the multiple ravine. ROUTE: We took trail 1 and then trail 5 to 3 and then did a large loop through 7 and 8. We ended up hiking around 6 miles. It rained 2 days prior to our trip, so there was mud and water. Water proof boots would have been amazing. I definitely had wet socks as I ended up stepping/sliding into the water at different points. The view near the river is probably the most beautiful of what I saw."

"Had an amazingly great time. Thankfully they take card because we forgot cash, we were provided maps and event pamphlets as well. They had many picnic tables and grills, as well as very clean restrooms, and a nice little playground area for the kids. There was even a water station to fill up your water bottles. The whole area is beautiful. Would not recommend strollers lol take a backpack with water and snacks. Easy trails for you and the kids, and more advanced ones for older kids. Everyone we came across was super friendly and just happy to be outside, super dog friendly. Take bug spray too, those mosquitoes will ruin the whole experience!"

"We stayed in the campground and it was pretty nice. The sites had much more privacy than most other state park campgrounds we've been to. Most trails were marked pretty well and upkept decently. Trail 8 could do with a few more markers and Trail 7 needs a few steps replaced on the stairs, but overall it was great! We also wished that this park would have had its own Nature Center instead of "sharing one" with Turkey Run. We absolutely loved this state park! From the stunning views to the friendly employees to the beautiful trails, we really had a great trip! Thank you to the staff that make this park so enjoyable!"