Exploring the Natural Wonders of Turkey Run State Park in Indiana

 Welcome to Turkey Run State Park, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Indiana. With its breathtaking landscapes, meandering trails, and diverse wildlife, this enchanting park offers a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Join me as we delve into the wonders of Turkey Run State Park and discover why it is a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers.

Step into a world of natural beauty as you enter Turkey Run State Park. The park boasts stunning sandstone gorges, scenic canyons, and picturesque forests that will leave you in awe. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance as you explore its tranquil trails and experience the serenity of nature at its finest.

Turkey Run State Park offers an extensive network of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there is a trail for everyone. Traverse the rugged canyons, cross suspension bridges, and navigate through towering cliffs as you embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure. Don't miss the iconic Trail 3, known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views.

For the adventurous souls, Turkey Run State Park offers a plethora of outdoor activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Test your rock-climbing skills on the park's towering cliffs or rent a canoe and paddle along the scenic Sugar Creek. Indulge in a thrilling horseback ride through the park's trails or go fishing in the tranquil waters. The possibilities for outdoor adventure are endless.

Calling all photography enthusiasts! Turkey Run State Park provides a picturesque backdrop for capturing stunning shots. From the golden hues of autumn foliage to the vibrant wildflowers in spring, every season brings a unique charm to the park. Don't forget to bring your camera and capture the beauty of the park's landscapes, wildlife, and serene waterways.

Turkey Run State Park is an ideal destination for a family outing. Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature's beauty. The park features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a Nature Center where kids can learn about the park's flora and fauna through interactive exhibits. Create lasting memories as you bond with your loved ones in this outdoor playground.

Turkey Run State Park in Indiana offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, thrilling adventures, and serene beauty. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a peaceful retreat in nature, or an exhilarating outdoor experience, this park has something for everyone. Plan your visit to Turkey Run State Park and prepare to be enchanted by its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless opportunities for exploration. Discover the magic of this hidden gem and embrace the wonders of nature in the heart of Indiana.

Address: 8121 Park Rd, Marshall, IN 47859

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri

Exploring the Beauty and History of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park in Minnesota

Located about 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors on Highway 61, this park gets it's name from the  beautiful historic lighthouse perched atop a rock cliff on the north shore of Lake Superior.

The Split Rock lighthouse is one of the most visited lighthouses in the nation and serves as backdrop for many popular photos. The lighthouse was completed in 1910 and was in service until 1969. Tours of the lighthouse and surrounding buildings are available daily throughout the summer season. Find more info here.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park has around 4 miles of rocky shoreline and beaches. 

A beautiful black sand beach (Pebble Beach) is located just a short walk from the parking area. Several picnic areas are nestled in the trees along the beach.

A little further down the main trail will lead you to a beach area that is made of of beautiful colored  stones. This is a fun place to explore the coastline.

The vegetation in this area is mainly birch, spruce, fir, and ash trees.

The park contains 14.5 miles of trails for hiking, bicycling, and cross-country skiing.

Camping

Cart-in Sites

Twenty secluded sites approximately 2000 feet from the parking area.. Campers leave their vehicles in the lot and use two-wheeled carts provided by the park to carry their equipment  to their site. There are two wheelchair accessible sites in this area. Modern toilets and showers are available from early May until early October.

Backpack Sites

Four sites ranging from 1/2 to 2 miles from the campground parking lot. Two of the sites are accessible from Lake Superior for use by kayaks.

Reservations for campsites are required. Make them here.

Water recreation includes boating, sea kayaking, fishing, and scuba diving. Access to the Madeira wreck, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is available through the park. 

Address: 

3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road

Two Harbors, MN 55616

telephone: 

218-595-ROCK (7625)

email: 

SplitRockLthouse.StatePark@state.mn.us

Happy Travels! 

Honeymoon Island State Park: A Hidden Gem in Florida

Formally known as Hog Island, Honeymoon Island acquired its current name when a New Yorker purchased the island in 1939 and built bungalows for honeymooners.

The island is a barrier island on the gulf coast of Florida and is home to Honeymoon Island State Park. The beautiful undeveloped beaches make it a favorite place for both visitors and locals.

My favorite shells to collect are the turban shells. I have never seen them on any other beach in Florida, or any beach anywhere. I'm sure they other places, I just haven't seen them.

The main beach area is great for swimming and beach activities. The sand is soft with very few rocks in that area. That is also where the restrooms are located.

The pet beach is on the south end of the island. It is a good distance from the parking area to the beach and we had to walk around several puddles of water to get there. The beach is nothing spectacular to look at, but the fur babies will love it. Unfortunately, I do not have the photos that I took of the pet beach. They were on my brand new phone that I dropped in a pool right after we left the park....😭

A fun thing to do is to catch the ferry to Caladesi Island. You can read about our trip here.

Address:

#1 Causeway Blvd.

Dunedin, FL 34698

Hours:

The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.

Admission Fee:

$8.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.

$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.

$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

$4.00 per vehicle: sunset fee, starting one hour prior to sunset.


Happy Travels! 

Unveiling the Charm of Lovers Key State Park in Fort Myers Beach, Florida

 One of the most beautiful beaches in Southern Florida is located within Loves Key Sates Park. 

 The 2.5 miles of sugar white sand and beautiful turquoise water are simply a paradise. The park is located about 18 miles south of Sanibel Island and just 7 miles from Fort Myers Beach.

The south end is about a quarter of a mile walk to the sand or you can take the tram if you wish. I would recommend taking the tram if you have a lot of beach gear.

The north beach is accessible through the gate at Big Carlos Pass. I would advise getting a map as you go into the park. We were still kind of lost with the map. Lol

 

It’s a great place for finding sand dollars, shelling, and bird watching.

Hours:

The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.

Admission:

$8.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.

$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle and Motorcycles.

$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

Hope you enjoy this beach as much as we did!

Happy Travels! 

Tallulah Gorge State Park (Tallulah Falls, Georgia)

Tallulah Gorge State Park is a beautiful place with amazing views of the gorge, waterfalls, and beautiful scenery.

Tallulah Gorge is one of the largest canyons in the eastern part of the United States.

 A fairly easy hike to the rim allows spectacular views of the gorge’s waterfalls. The gorge is around 1000 feet deep and runs for 2 miles.

If you are up for the hike, there is a suspension bridge that is 80 feet above the canyon floor. We did not make it to the bridge, but you can view it from the rim.

Location:

338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive

Tallulah Falls, GA 30573

Happy Travels!