Charlestown State Park
Located in southern Indiana, Charlestown State Park is one of the best places for hikers and wildflower enthusiasts to go in the spring. The topography and trails in this relatively new 5,100-acre state park provide some rugged challenges, but a visit in May to see wild geranium, trillium, and other spring wildflowers is worth the walk. Bird watchers will enjoy the 72 species of birds, including bluebirds, black vultures and an occasional bald eagle. The park includes 60 full hookup campsites and 132 modern sites with electricity, water and modern restrooms available for overnight visitors. Campers can take day trips to nearby Clifty Falls and Falls of the Ohio state parks to enjoy some of Indiana's geology. For further information, call 812-256-5600.
Monroe Lake
Although it is known for its avian diversity year round, Monroe Lake is a birder's paradise in the spring. It is a great place to watch migrating waterfowl and to hear returning warblers and other woodland nesting birds. This 13,952-acre property includes a 3,000-plus acre lake and several marshes. Campers will find 226 sites with electricity and access to water, modern restrooms and 95 non-electric sites. Hotel lodging is available in the Fairfax Recreation Area at Inn of the Four Winds. Brown County State Park and McCormick's Creek State Park are located nearby. For further information, call 812-837-9546.
Chain O'Lakes State Park
An early spring paddle is a great way to watch wildlife, and Chain O'Lakes State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors from the seat of a canoe. Named for the chain of seven lakes that are linked by channels, the 2,718-acre park features camping, hiking, a seasonal interpretive center in a historic schoolhouse and, of course, great places for quiet canoe trips. Canoe rentals are available or you can launch your own. An Indiana non-motorized lake permit, which can be purchased at the park office, is required for personal canoes. For further information, call 260-636-2654.
A schedule of interpreter-led walks, talks and other events for Indiana state parks and reservoirs is available online.