Charlestown State Park Travel Guide

Discover the natural attractions, outdoor adventures, historical places, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and safety and health tips of Charlestown State Park in Southern Indiana with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Charlestown State Park

Charlestown State Park is a 5,100-acre natural wonderland located 30 minutes northeast of Louisville, Kentucky, in Southern Indiana. The park’s unique landscape is characterized by cliff-lined ridges, deep ravines, and remnants of 19th-century homesteads that offer visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.

List of Places to Visit in Charlestown State Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rose Island Amusement Park Site: Take a walk through history and explore the remains of the once-thriving amusement park that operated on the banks of the Ohio River until it was destroyed by a flood in 1937. Visitors can see the remnants of the dance hall, swimming pool, and skating rink, and learn about the park’s history through interpretive panels located throughout the site.

  • St. Michael’s Catholic Church: Visit the picturesque ruins of the 19th-century church nestled in the park’s woods. The church was built by German immigrants in 1870 and abandoned in the early 20th century.

Natural Attractions of Charlestown State Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Devil’s Backbone: Hike the moderately challenging 3.8-mile trail that winds through the park’s rugged terrain and offers stunning panoramic views of the Ohio River valley.

  • Charlestown State Park Lake Trail: This easy 1.2-mile trail circles the park’s scenic lake, which is stocked with bass, catfish, and bluegill for fishing enthusiasts.

  • Fourteen Mile Creek: Paddle the scenic waterway that runs through the park and features diverse wildlife such as beavers, otters, and herons.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Charlestown State Park

  • Trail 3: This 4.5-mile trail features steep climbs, rocky terrain, and stunning views of the park’s cliff-lined ridges and Ohio River valley.

  • Trail 7: This 3.5-mile loop trail is one of the most popular in the park, offering hikers and bikers a challenging yet rewarding trek through the park’s rugged terrain and beautiful forests.

Best Things to Do in Charlestown State Park: Activities and Tours

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Rent a canoe or kayak and explore the park’s scenic waterways, including the Ohio River and Fourteen Mile Creek.

  • Fishing: Cast your line and try for largemouth bass, catfish, and bluegill in the park’s fishing pond or the Ohio River.

  • Horseback Riding: Bring your own horse or rent one and explore the park’s miles of horse trails, including the scenic River Trail.

  • Bird Watching: Bring your binoculars and spot some of the park’s 160 bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons.

Week-Long Itinerary for Charlestown State Park

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Rose Island Amusement Park Site
Day 2 Hike Devil’s Backbone Trail
Day 3 Canoe or kayak Fourteen Mile Creek
Day 4 Visit St. Michael’s Catholic Church ruins
Day 5 Horseback ride the River Trail
Day 6 Try your luck fishing in the park’s lake
Day 7 Hike Trail 7 and enjoy a picnic at the summit

Food and Drink Scene of Charlestown State Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hoosier tenderloin: A local favorite, this sandwich features a breaded pork tenderloin with lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayo, served on a bun. Try it at the park’s Brownie’s Family Restaurant, located just outside the park.

  • Fried catfish: A tasty and traditional Southern dish, served at Charlestown Pizza Company, located on the park’s outskirts.

Local Beverages

  • Bourbon: Visit the nearby Jim Beam Distillery and take a tour to learn about the distillation process and taste some of their world-famous bourbon.

  • Local Craft Beers: Try some of the delicious craft beers brewed in nearby Jeffersonville, including Red Yeti Brewing Company and Flat12 Bierwerks.

Where to Stay in Charlestown State Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Charlestown State Park Lodge: Stay in one of the park’s 60 rooms, each with a private balcony or patio overlooking the park or the Ohio River.

  • Campgrounds: The park offers various camping options, including primitive as well as RV camping.

What to Buy in Charlestown State Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Rose Island Amusement Park Site T-Shirt: A fun and unique souvenir to commemorate your visit.

  • Local Honey: Visit the nearby Coffee Crossing and try some of the delicious local honey, produced by bees in the park’s forests and fields.

Local Culture and Customs of Charlestown State Park

  • Southern Hospitality: Experience the warm and friendly hospitality of the region’s people, who are known for their welcoming and kind nature.

  • Hoosier Pride: Get a taste of the Midwest’s rich culture and traditions, including delicious comfort food, country music, and friendly neighbors.

Best Time to Visit Charlestown State Park

The best time to visit Charlestown State Park is from late spring through early fall, when the weather is mild and the park’s natural beauty is in full bloom. Fall is especially stunning, with the park’s tree-lined ridges turning gold and crimson, and the Ohio River forming a picturesque backdrop.

Do’s and Don’ts of Charlestown State Park

Do:

  • Do follow park regulations: Respect the park’s rules and regulations, including speed limits, wildlife protection measures, and campfire policies.

  • Do explore the park fully: Take time to explore all that the park has to offer, from historical sites to hiking trails and waterways.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Keep the park clean and healthy by disposing of trash properly.

  • Don’t disturb the wildlife: Respect the park’s diverse wildlife and avoid disturbing or harming them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Charlestown State Park

  • Beware of Poison Ivy: Watch out for this plant, which can cause itching, and skin irritation, especially on exposed skin.

  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions: The weather can change quickly in the park, so always pack extra layers and rain gear.

Health in Charlestown State Park

  • Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water and sports drinks to stay hydrated, especially during hot and humid months.

  • Watch out for ticks and mosquitoes: Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself against ticks and mosquitoes.

Getting to Charlestown State Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Charlestown State Park

  • Louisville International Airport (25 miles)
  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (106 miles)
  • Indianapolis International Airport (116 miles)

Bus Stations Near Charlestown State Park

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Louisville, Kentucky (16 miles)

Other Options

  • Rental car
  • Taxi
  • Uber/Lyft

How to Get Around in Charlestown State Park

  • Hiking trails
  • Horse riding trails
  • Canoeing and kayaking

Where to Go Next from Charlestown State Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Falls of the Ohio State Park: Just across the Ohio River in Clarksville, Indiana. Visitors can explore the fossil beds and learn about the region’s geological history.

  • Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: Just a 30-minute drive from the park, this museum and factory tour celebrates the history of baseball and the famous Louisville Slugger bat.

Conclusion

Charlestown State Park offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience, filled with natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich culture and history. From hiking and kayaking to cultural attractions and delicious local food, this park has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Charlestown State Park is the perfect destination for you!