Mounds State Park protects 10 Native American earthworks built by the Adena-Hopewell cultures over 2,000 years ago. The Great Mound—Indiana’s largest—dates to 160 BCE!
Camping
| Site Type | Count |
|---|---|
| ⚡ Electric | 75 sites |
| 📅 Season | Year-round (reduced amenities Nov-Apr) |
| 💵 Entry Fee | $7 in-state / $9 out-of-state |
Native American Earthworks
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏛️ Total Mounds | 10 earthworks |
| ⭕ Great Mound | ¼ mile circumference, 160 BCE |
| 🔭 Purpose | Ceremonies, astronomical alignments |
| 🏺 Artifacts Found | Copper beads, mica, obsidian, seashells |
FAQ
Can I walk on the mounds?
Stay on designated trails to protect these ancient earthworks! The Great Mound is easily accessible via Trail 1.
🏛️ Indiana’s Ancient History
Reserve at IN DNR.
Location & Getting There
Mounds State Park is located in Indiana. The park’s coordinates are 40.1003, -85.6207. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: Indiana
- Coordinates: 40.1003, -85.6207
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Nature & Wildlife
Mounds State Park is home to a diverse array of native flora and fauna. Visitors can observe songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl throughout the year, while white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and smaller mammals like fox and raccoon frequent the park”s woodlands. Wildflowers create colorful displays in spring and early summer, and the park”s forests transition through spectacular seasonal changes. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during spring and fall migration, when dozens of species pass through the area.
Things to Do
Indiana parks feature sandstone canyons, limestone caves, and hardwood forests. Activities include hiking gorge trails, swimming at lake beaches, fishing, exploring cave networks, mountain biking, horseback riding, and birdwatching. Brown County State Park is known for stunning fall color.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (October) is peak for foliage. Summer is ideal for lake swimming and camping. Spring brings waterfall flow and wildflowers. Winter offers peaceful trails and holiday events at park inns.
Visitor Tips
Gate fee $7 in-state, $9 out-of-state per vehicle. Annual pass $50. Indiana offers historic park inns with dining inside parks. Book fall weekends months in advance.
Explore More Indiana State Parks
Mounds 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.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Summit Lake State Park (a short drive away) and Fort Harrison State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Mounds 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 Mounds 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
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