Rambling Thursdays

Summer is fast approaching and I’m sure some of you are planning vacations or long weekends. So I’ll be giving you some ideas on my Rambling Thursdays. Today I’m talking about Parke County Indiana. 

Parke County is one of my favorite places to visit here in Indiana. It’s a beautiful rural area; wooded and hilly. Great for a country drive, antiquing, hiking, photography, food, river activities and just getting away from it all. Click here for any detailed information. 

Of course Parke county is known for Turky Run State Park. This is an awesome state park. Sugar Creek runs through the middle of the park. A suspension bridge adjoining each side. Awesome hiking, some of it rugged. It has a beautiful inn, horseback riding, campground, swimming pool, and nature center. You can easily spend a few days in the park, if you so desire.  But there’s much more to do in Parke County. 

Shades state park is also close by. In my opinion, it’s just as beautiful as Turkey run. Some of it more so. It’s also more quieter than Turkey Run. I’ve hiked there on occasions without meeting a soul. Pine Hills Nature Preserve which is inside the park is probably the best hike I have ever done in Indiana. Bar none! Highly recommend it. 

Canoeing and kayaking on Sugar Creek is an awesome way to spend the day. Sugar Valley Creek Canoes is a great way to start. These people will get you started. They also have tubes for floating the river. They do all the work shuttling you around. 

If you love antiques, there’s plenty of shops for you. Click here for a list. Of course Parke county is the epicenter for the Covered Bridge festival every October. 

Yes, Parke County is known for their covered bridges. Here's a list, and also a link to a map. They are all unique and quite beautiful. It makes for an enjoyable country drive to visit them.

Rockville is the county seat. It is a very small town, but there are a few nice restaurants and plenty of antique shops. The county is full of tiny towns, but Bridgeton is probably my favorite town to visit. There’s a beautiful covered bridge and a grist mill on the creek. 

Parke county has plenty of options for lodging. Motels, cabins, camping and bed n breakfasts. Here's a list of what is available.

Lastly, if you desire to drive a little further out, Saint Mary of the Woods, just north of Terre Haute, Saint Mary of the Woods is a beautiful place to visit. The grounds are so peaceful and beautiful. And the Sunday brunch is to die for! I highly recommend it. 

If you love pottery, drive south to Clay City Pottery They make beautiful pottery and sell them in a store there in Clay City. 

You will love Parke County as a getaway. I’ll have another vacation idea in my next Rambling Thursday.