Charlestown State Park

About

Charlestown State Park is Indiana's third largest state park, encompassing over 5,100 acres of rugged hills, deep ravines, and scenic river bluffs in Clark County along the Ohio River. Once a largely undeveloped section of the massive Indiana Army Ammunition Plant, the park is easily accessible from I-65 and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. The landscape features dramatic elevation changes of over 200 feet, with scenic vistas of the Fourteenmile Creek valley and the mighty Ohio River. The park's trail system includes over 15 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to rugged. Hikers can explore dense floodplain forests, mixed deciduous hardwoods, and rock outcrops with Devonian fossil deposits. The terrain showcases karst topography with large sinkholes, cascading waterfalls, and rock-bottom streams. Spring wildflowers provide stunning displays along many trails. The historic Portersville Bridge provides access to Rose Island, the remnants of a 1920s-era amusement park that was destroyed by the 1937 flood. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting over 70 species including bluebirds, black vultures, and occasional bald eagles. The park is a designated stop on the Indiana Birding Trail. The large campground features 192 sites including 60 full hookup sites with water, sewer, and electricity, and 132 electric-only sites. Modern comfort stations serve the campground. A boat ramp provides access to the Ohio River for boating, water skiing, and fishing. The park offers naturalist programs, picnic areas with reservable shelters, and playgrounds.

Directions

From I-65, take exit to I-265 East toward Jeffersonville. Take exit 10 from I-265 East to access State Road 62 East/Ohio River Scenic Byway. Continue on SR 62 East for approximately 8 miles. Park entrance will be on the right at 12500 State Road 62, Charlestown.