Falls of the Ohio State Park is a public state park in Indiana near Clarksville in Clark County. Spanning 165 acres and established in 1990, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Indiana |
| Nearest City | Clarksville |
| County | Clark |
| Park Size | 165 acres |
| Established | 1990 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (500 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Falls of the Ohio State Park is located near Clarksville, Indiana. The park’s coordinates are 38.2667, -85.7667.
Things to Do
Indiana state parks protect the state’s finest natural areas, from sandstone canyons and limestone caves to Lake Michigan dunes and hardwood forests. Activities include hiking through scenic gorges and along rugged canyon trails, swimming at guarded lake beaches, fishing for bass and bluegill, camping in forested settings, exploring large cave networks, mountain biking on developing trail systems, horseback riding on dedicated trails, and birdwatching along major migratory routes. Brown County State Park — “The Little Smokies” — is known for its rugged beauty and stunning fall color.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (October) is peak season, when Indiana’s hardwood forests blaze with orange and red — Brown County and Turkey Run are especially spectacular. Summer (June–August) is ideal for lake swimming, camping, and nature center programs. Spring (April–May) brings peak waterfall flow, morel mushroom hunting, and wildflower hikes. Winter offers peaceful snow-covered trails and special holiday events at park inns.
Visitor Tips
Indiana state parks charge a gate fee ($7 in-state, $9 out-of-state per vehicle). An annual entrance pass ($50) covers unlimited visits. Camping and inn reservations through the Indiana DNR system. Indiana is unique for its historic park inns — full-service lodges with dining inside parks like Turkey Run, Brown County, McCormick’s Creek, and Spring Mill. Reservations for fall weekends at popular parks should be made months in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Indiana state parks free?
Indiana state parks charge a gate fee of $7 per in-state vehicle and $9 per out-of-state vehicle. An annual pass costs $50 for residents and $70 for non-residents and covers all sites year-round.
What are the best state parks in Indiana?
Top parks include Turkey Run (deep sandstone canyons), Brown County (southern Indiana hills), Indiana Dunes (Lake Michigan beach), McCormick’s Creek (Indiana’s first state park), and Clifty Falls (waterfalls and gorges).
Can I hike in canyons at Indiana state parks?
Yes, Turkey Run and Shades State Parks feature dramatic sandstone canyons with ladder trails and stream crossings. These parks are often called Indiana’s hidden gems for canyon hiking. Waterproof shoes are recommended.
What is the best time to visit Indiana state parks?
Fall (mid-October) brings spectacular foliage to Brown County and southern Indiana. Spring offers wildflowers and waterfall views. Summer is peak for camping. Winter provides quiet, uncrowded trails.
Explore More Indiana State Parks
Falls of the Ohio State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Indiana. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Indiana guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Falls of the Ohio SP — exposes 390-million-year-old Devonian fossil beds — one of the largest exposed Devonian fossil beds in the world. Over 600 species of fossils have been identified. The park’s Ohio River, fossil beds, and river islands support bald eagles, great blue herons, and diverse freshwater fish.
Nearby Attractions
Clarksville — adjacent. Louisville, KY — across the Ohio River. Ohio River Greenway — at the park.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Charlestown State Park (a short drive away) or Deam Lake State Recreation Area (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Falls of the Ohio State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed throughout Indiana state park properties, including trails, but must be on a 6-foot leash or in a cage at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft leash applies to the entire property; electric collars/fences do not substitute
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets (except service animals) are prohibited from swimming pools and beaches unless an area is specifically designated for pets
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly rooms and cabins at all seven Indiana State Park Inns accept dogs and cats up to 75 lbs, max two pets, for $25 per pet per night
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $25 per pet per night at State Park Inns' pet-friendly rooms/cabins
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- At eight reservoir properties (including Patoka, Brookville and Monroe) dogs may be off leash in lawful pursuit of wild animals or in licensed field trials
Are dogs allowed at Falls of the Ohio State Park?
Pets are allowed throughout Indiana state park properties, including trails, but must be on a 6-foot leash or in a cage at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via in.gov. More: Indiana state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Falls of the Ohio State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
