State Parks and Caves
Family Fun
Family Fun
Looking for a great place to have some fun with the kids? Then come to Southern Indiana and turn them loose for the vacation of a lifetime.
With lots of wide open spaces for kids to be kids, we offer a variety of outdoor activities perfectly suited for active families.
Your kids are sure to enjoy Patoka Lake, two state parks, four show caves, a restored pioneer village, a 20 mile train ride, and the drama about Abe Lincoln's childhood.
Canoe the Blue, ski Paoli Peaks, picnic at Sycamore Springs, and go horseback riding at a working ranch. Make Southern Indiana your vacation destination and let the fun begin!
Family Fun
Cave Country Canoes
Vacation Ideas: Splashing Around, Family Fun
Flowing through the heart of Indiana's newest state park, Blue River is a great Class 1 stream (perfect for groups and families). Half-day, full day, and overnight trips are available from April through October. Come and experience the thrill of canoeing Indiana's first Designated Scenic Waterway.
toll-free:
888-702-2837
website:
Cave Country Canoes
Canoeing Blue River on a beautiful day
Dr. Ted's Musical Marvels
Dr. Ted's Musical Marvels is a colossal collection of the most amazing mechanical musical instruments you will ever hear. When those instruments start to play you'll walk away forever altered from the experience. Our giftshop offers unique gifts, collectibles, and antiques.
phone:
812-937-4250
website:
Dr. Ted's Musical Marvels
Instruments from the 1800's to mid-1900's.
Dubois County Museum
Settled by German immigrants, their heritage and history is showcased in the many exhibits at the Dubois County Museum. Visit an authentic 2-story German log house. Crawl inside a reproduction of an 1850s immigrant ship's bunk. Learn about Buffalo Trace. All this and more!
phone:
812-634-7733
additionally:
More Dubois County Museum Info
German history and heritage come alive
Hoosier Hills Marina
Vacation Ideas: Splashing Around
This full service marina is tucked away in a quiet cove of Patoka Lake. With slips and moorings for 170 boats, Hoosier Hills can accommodate everything from 20' pontoons and cruisers to 70' houseboats. A rental fleet and conveniently stocked store are also available.
toll-free:
866-678-3313
website:
Hoosier Hills Marina
Boats docked at the marina on Patoka Lake
Indiana Railway Museum
Vacation Ideas: Family Fun, History 2
The entire family will enjoy this 20 mile train ride through the scenic hills of the Hoosier National Forest. Lasting about 2 hours, the trip includes passage through one of the longest tunnels in the state. All Aboard!
toll-free:
800-748-7246
website:
Indiana Railway Museum
20 mile train ride through scenic woods
Patoka Lake Marina & Lodging
Vacation Ideas: Splashing Around
Water enthusiasts can choose from small fishing boats to party barges and large houseboats. Landlubbers can pick from a variety of fully-equipped rooms, suites, and cabins. Two convenient stores and a grill & laundrymat will help make your stay at Patoka Lake pleasurable and fun.
toll-free:
888-819-6916
website:
Patoka Lake Marina & Lodging
A family enjoying Patoka Lake at the marina
Patoka Lake Visitor Center
Vacation Ideas: Splashing Around
Providing year round interactive events, this educational facility helps visitors gain an appreciation for nature. Learn more about native plants, local geology, raptors, wetlands, local wildflowers, and more. Self-guided nature trails are also available.
phone:
812-685-2447
website:
Patoka Lake Visitor Center
Learn about Patoka Lake through many exhibits
Ski Paoli Peaks
Vacation Ideas: Winter Fun
Skiers and snowboarders of ALL AGES are welcome! A Kids' Snow Kamp provides all day supervision for ages 5-12. Fifteen slopes, equipment rentals, ski school, pro shop, certified instructors, food service, and ski lodge add up to winter fun at its best.
phone:
812-723-4696
website:
Ski Paoli Peaks
Friends enjoying the snowy slopes
Sycamore Springs
Vacation Ideas: Family Fun
This beautiful park, privately owned and funded by the Clayton Roberson family, consists of 250 scenic acres on Little Blue River. Facilities include a wooded picnic and play area, shelterhouses, hiking, and fishing---all free of charge. Overnight camping is available by reservation.
phone:
812-338-3846
website:
Sycamore Springs
Playground equipment at Sycamore Springs
The Fun Farm
Laser tag, go-kart, rock-climbing wall, paintball games and store, (1 indoor and 7 outdoor fields for paintball and laser tag), arcade, bean bag game, 22-hole championship disk (frisbee) golf course, corn maze, hayrides, karaoke, large pavilion for weddings / reunions / company outings / birthday parties, and hiking trails. 5$ admission charge. Open Jan-Dec. Hours: Wed-Sun 10am - 6pm. Other hours by reservation. (handicapped acc)
toll-free:
800-952-3580
website:
The Fun Farm
1 indoor and 7 outdoor fields for paintball and la
Wilstem Guest Ranch
Vacation Ideas: Family Fun
Situated on 1,100 acres of rolling hills and green pastures, this working ranch has 30 miles of riding trails, a swimming pool, volleyball, fishing, hiking, hayrides, and more. Accommodations include a lodge, ranch house, and cabins. Group events can be held in the Big Red Barn.
phone:
812-936-4484
website:
Wilstem Guest Ranch
Leisure activities abound at Wilstem Guest Ranch