Just outside of Historic Downtown Madison, Indiana, Clifty Falls State Park showcases the region’s unique canyons, bluffs, and streams. Home to several waterfalls, countless trails, picnic areas, and even an inn, this state park is a nature-lover’s dream.
Dive into the post to learn more about this southern Indiana state park and the outdoor recreation opportunities it offers.
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Where is Clifty Falls State Park Located?
Clifty Falls State Park is located near Madison, Indiana and can be accessed from state roads 56 and 62.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Clifty Falls State Park?
Visit this state park anytime of year – it’s always picturesque. However, venture to the park during the spring and winter seasons for the best chance at seeing ferociously flowing waterfalls, and during the summer and fall months for beautiful weather and full foliage.
Where to Stay at Clifty Falls State Park?
Park-goers have three main options for overnight accommodations: camping in the park, reserving a room at the Clifty Inn, or staying down the road in Madison.
Camping
Camping is the most budget- and time-friendly option if you’re spending one or more nights in the area and exploring the state park. Clifty Falls State Park has 106 electric sites and 63 non-electric sites.
Clifty Inn
If you want to stay within the state park but don’t want to camp, consider a stay at the Clifty Inn. I stayed here during my visit and absolutely loved it. It was my first time staying at an inn or hotel within a state park and I’m already looking for more options just like it.
The inn overlooks the Ohio River and offers several room options from queen doubles to suites that accommodate larger families.
The inn also houses a restaurant and several cozy lounges. Open year-round, the inn is especially cozy during the snowy winter months.
Lodging Options in Madison
Head a few minutes down the road to Madison for a wider range of lodging options such as popular chain hotels, bed and breakfasts, and Airbnb options.
- The Chandler Hotel (Boutique hotel with roof-top terrace)
- Eagle Cotton Mill | Fairfield Inn by Marriott (Historic 1884 Cotton Mill transformed into a hotel, situated along the Ohio River)
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites (Budget-friendly hotel option with free breakfast and indoor pool)
Admission Fee to Clifty Falls State Park
Visitors to Clifty Falls State Park must have an annual Indiana State Parks Pass or purchase a day pass.
Day passes are $7 for Indiana residents and $9 for out-of-state residents, while annual entrance passes are $50 for Indiana residents and $70 for out-of-state residents. Annual passes are good from January 1st through December 31st of the year issued.
Things to Do in Clifty Falls State Park
Hike
Clifty Falls State Park features 10 hiking trails, ranging in length from .5 miles to 4.5 miles. Explore the trails that lead into Clifty Canyon for impressive views of the rocky cliffside and Clifty Creek.
The park has four main waterfalls: Clifty Falls, Little Clifty Falls, Tunnel Falls (open seasonally due to bat hibernation) and Hoffman Falls). Several of the paths guide you to closer views of the falls than you can see from the main overlooks.
Most of the trails are rugged to moderately rugged and require going up and down steep staircases and/or traversing terrain with rocky footing or steep grades.
Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes, especially during the winter months and after it rains when the ground and steps can be particularly slippery.
Observation Tower
Take Trail #1 which starts at the Nature Center to reach the Clifty Falls Observation Tower. The .75 mile trail meanders into the canyon, along the Ohio River.
I’ll admit, I was a bit hesitant to climb the rickety-looking steps to the top. The observation tower is a bit dated, but I never say no to a good lookout and the tower held up well.
From the top you’ll see vast views of the Ohio River, the Clifty Inn, and state park land.
Swim
Clifty Falls State Park is home to an outdoor olympic-size swimming pool, complete with waterslides.
The swimming area also has bathhouses and a concession stand.
Nature Center
Visitors can stop by the Nature Center, open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am until 3pm.
Enjoy Clifty Falls State Park
Lace up your hiking boots and head to Clifty Falls State Park for your next outdoor adventure. Spend a few hours, or a couple days, and enjoy the beauty surrounding Madison, Indiana.
