Day Trips from Bloomington
← All Bloomington day tripsDay Trips from Bloomington: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Bloomington, IN. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Bloomington
McCloud Nature Park
North Salem, IN 46165
Just 1 hr 21 min from Bloomington, rated 4.9 stars by 595 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocky Hollow Falls Canyon Nature Preserve
Bloomingdale, IN 47832
Just 1 hr 44 min from Bloomington, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shades State Park
Waveland, IN 47989
Just 1 hr 39 min from Bloomington, rated 4.8 stars by 2,073 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pine Hills Nature Preserve
Waveland, IN 47989
Just 1 hr 39 min from Bloomington, rated 4.8 stars by 236 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge
IN 47274, USA
Just 1 hr 9 min from Bloomington, rated 4.8 stars by 113 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
North Fork State Wildlife Refuge
IN 47401, USA
Just 28 min from Bloomington, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hemlock Cliffs
English, IN 47118
Just 1 hr 42 min from Bloomington, rated 4.8 stars by 819 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Brown County State Park Nature Center
Nashville, IN 47448
Just 39 min from Bloomington, rated 4.8 stars by 231 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
McCormick's Creek State Park
Spencer, IN 47460
Just 26 min from Bloomington, rated 4.8 stars by 4,110 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Marott Woods Nature Preserve
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Just 1 hr 16 min from Bloomington, rated 4.7 stars by 709 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cataract Falls State Recreation Area
Spencer, IN 47460
Just 46 min from Bloomington, rated 4.7 stars by 2,558 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fort Harrison State Park
Indianapolis, IN 46216
Just 1 hr 8 min from Bloomington, rated 4.7 stars by 5,434 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Bloomington
What are the best state parks near Bloomington, IN?
The best state parks near Bloomington offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Bloomington?
Most state parks near Bloomington charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Bloomington are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Bloomington offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Bloomington?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Bloomington. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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