Shades State Park is a peaceful and beautiful state park located southwest of Crawfordsville. It is a favorite for hikers, canoeists, and campers, offering a nature lover's paradise with its stunning scenery. The park features beautiful sandstone cliffs overlooking Sugar Creek, numerous shady ravines, hills, creeks, and spectacular overlooks. The incredible hiking trails provide a fun and rugged adventure, ranging from short, enjoyable paths to fairly long hikes through areas like the Pine Hills Nature Preserve. The park is known for its quiet, untouched beauty and feels less crowded, allowing for a tranquil retreat. Visitors can experience breathtaking seasonal changes, like vibrant fall colors creating a breathtaking canopy. While the trails are highly recommended, some could use maintenance, adding to the rugged feel. The campground is available, though it could use some updates. Overall, it is an underrated and awesome place for a scenic stroll or an adventurous hike, providing an unforgettable and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Lived near here for years. One of my all time favorite parks.
December 2025
Great camp ground. Wonderful rugged short hiking trails that you can combine for longer hikes. Also near Turkey run.
December 2025
Just as good as Turkey Run... minus all the people. We felt like we were the only ones here. Absolutely beautiful!! This does not have all the amenities as Turkey Run, but totally worth it.
