Hiking in the great outdoors is good for the mind, body and soul, and Clark County, Indiana has a variety of hiking trails for everyone. Hiking is a great form of exercise, gets you outside in fresh air, and is a wonderful opportunity to talk or just listen to peacefulness of the outdoors.
Deam Lake State Recreation Area
With four hiking trails to choose from, and all under three miles, you can easily enjoy most in a day’s time. Deam Lake has a scenic, undeveloped shore which is the perfect setting to enjoy nature. Camping, horseback riding trails, playgrounds, fishing, and a beach are also available. Deam Lake has excellent camping facilities for people and horses, with some sites available extra close to the lake.
Clark State Forest
This scenic area has three hiking trails, the shortest being just under one mile with the longest being 32 miles covering thousand of acres. Horseback riders share the trails, with people also enjoying fishing, camping, a shooting range, and playgrounds. Clark State Forest has such beautiful scenery, and besides hiking I have enjoyed horseback riding and running in this park.
Charlestown State Park
Hiking trails lead you to scenic views overlooking the Ohio River, rock outcroppings and beautiful woodlands. There are six hiking trails with a variety of distances, all under three miles. Also enjoy fishing, camping and playgrounds. Next to the playground is a large, open field which is perfect for kite flying, having a picnic, playing group games or laying on a blanket for a nap.
Lapping Park
Nestled within a park that also has a golf course, softball fields, playgrounds, picnic areas and a beautiful lodge are hiking trails for those looking for a quick walk through the forest or a rugged outing. Hike through forest with squirrels and birds busy around you that lead to an open field of wildflowers and vegetation. This is one of my favorite park to take the family because of the playgrounds and easy hiking trails.
Sources:
Personal Experience
http://www.clarksvilleparks.com/parks.php
http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2986.htm
http://www.in.gov/dnr/forestry/4827.htm
http://www.in.gov/dnr/forestry/4825.htm