Calling all outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers! Looking for some summer activities to get you out into nature so you can appreciate all the beauty Indiana has to offer? We got you covered. Here is a guide to 5 wonderful waterfalls in the Hoosier state.
1. Cataract Falls (Cataract, IN)
Location: Lieber State Recreation Area, Owen County
Why Go: Indiana’s largest waterfall by volume
Best For: Families, photographers, picnic lovers
Cataract Falls features two major drops—Upper and Lower Falls—connected by a short scenic trail. The Upper Falls plunges nearly 45 feet, while the Lower Falls drops about 30 feet across a broad limestone ledge. With easy access, covered picnic shelters, and a charming 19th-century red covered bridge nearby, it's a picture-perfect stop.
Tips:
Visit after a heavy rain for the most dramatic flow.
The area is dog-friendly and has accessible trails for most skill levels.
Bring water shoes if you want to wade near the edges in summer.
2. Clifty Falls (Madison, IN)
Location: Clifty Falls State Park, Jefferson County
Why Go: Four major waterfalls in one scenic park
Best For: Serious hikers, geology buffs, fall foliage seekers
Clifty Falls State Park is home to Big Clifty, Little Clifty, Tunnel Falls, and Hoffman Falls—each uniquely shaped by the ancient Clifty Creek canyon. The trails here range from moderate to rugged, and the dramatic rock formations give you a glimpse into Indiana’s prehistoric past.
Tips:
Trail 2 and Trail 5 offer the best views of the major falls.
Winter and early spring offer peak waterfall flow, but fall is stunning too.
Check out the historic railroad tunnel for a bonus adventure.
3. McCormick Creek Falls (Spencer, IN)
Location: McCormick’s Creek State Park
Why Go: A peaceful, shaded waterfall in Indiana’s oldest state park
Best For: Day hikers, families with kids, nature lovers
Tucked in a limestone canyon, this charming waterfall is small but serene. It's a short walk from the trailhead and surrounded by lush forest, perfect for a quiet nature retreat. The park also offers cabins and a nature center for extended stays.
Tips:
Try Trail 3 for the quickest access.
Visit in spring for wildflowers along the creek.
The park has a lodge if you want a weekend getaway.
4. France Park Falls (Logansport, IN)
Location: France Park, near Logansport
Why Go: A surprising waterfall in a reclaimed quarry
Best For: Casual hikers, scuba divers, off-the-beaten-path explorers
France Park’s waterfall flows into an old quarry, creating a unique blue-green pool below. The park is known for its scuba diving and mountain biking, making this a great spot for adventurous travelers who want to mix waterfall views with other activities.
Tips:
There’s a small entrance fee, but it’s worth it.
Bring a picnic—there are scenic overlooks perfect for lunch.
The falls are seasonal, so spring and early summer are ideal.
5. Salamonie River Falls (Lagro, IN)
Location: Salamonie River State Forest
Why Go: A quiet, rustic falls in a deeply wooded area
Best For: Solitude seekers, rustic campers, bird watchers
This hidden gem flows beneath a rugged bluff into the Salamonie River. While not the tallest or widest, it's prized for its peaceful setting and natural beauty. The surrounding forest offers miles of hiking and primitive camping.
Tips:
Wear sturdy shoes—trails can be muddy and narrow.
Bring binoculars: this area is great for spotting hawks and herons.
Plan ahead—cell service is limited and signage is minimal.
Indiana may be known for its rolling farmland and Midwestern charm, but tucked among its hills and forests are some truly breathtaking waterfalls. Indiana’s scenic routes and hidden cascades offer a refreshing way to experience the Hoosier State's wild side.
