RV Camping Near Clifty Falls State Park
ShareWhen it comes to attractions, Indiana has something for everyone. For racing enthusiasts, there is the Indianapolis 500 — one of the greatest spectacles in all of motorsports. For basketball fans, the Hoosier state has a special significance. And for RV travelers, Indiana has no shortage of potential road trip stops to keep individuals and families busy when they visit.
One particular road trip destination that shouldn’t be missed is Clifty Falls State Park, located near Madison, Indiana. Have a look at what a visit there holds in store for you, and you’ll see why RV camping near Clifty Falls State Park should definitely be on your to-do list.
Clifty Falls State Park Facts
If you’re considering a Clifty Falls State Park RV camping trip, then you should know a bit about it before you go. Here are a few fast Clifty Falls State Park facts to help introduce you to the area.
- Clifty Falls State Park was founded in 1920, after a gift of land to the state of Indiana from the citizens of the town of Madison.
- The size of the park is about 1,519 acres, or just under two and a half square miles.
- Clifty Falls State Park was named for the numerous waterfalls of Clifty Creek, four of which are named: Big Clifty Falls, Little Clifty Falls, Hoffman Falls, and Tunnel Falls.
- There is a 600-foot railroad tunnel in Clifty Falls State Park that dates back to 1852, though it was never actually used.
- Ten different trails of varying difficulty are available for hikers who visit Clifty Falls State Park.
Now that you’re equipped with the park’s rich history, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay!
Best Clifty Falls State Park RV Parks and Campgrounds
If you’re going to visit with an RV rental, Clifty Falls State Park has many camping options for RV travelers. Whether you want to go RV camping near Clifty Falls State Park, or prefer RV campgrounds in Clifty Falls State Park itself, read on to learn about the different camping sites available to you.
Tandy’s River View Parks
Amenities: Full hookups, a shower house, and a nearby public boat ramp await campers at this RV campsite on the banks of the Ohio River. One major advantage of staying here is how close you will be to restaurants and shopping in Madison, Indiana, and with an RV rental, Clifty Falls State Park is just a short drive away!
Capacity: 74 RV sites
More Information: Tandy’s River View Parks
Clifty Falls State Park Campground
Amenities: For RV travelers who want to be right where the action is, then RV camping in Clifty Falls State Park is the way to go. And when it comes to your stay at Clifty Falls State Park RV campgrounds, you will have nature’s beauty awaiting you whenever you look out your window or step out your door. There is a mix of electric and non-electric sites, so be careful when making a reservation — or plan accordingly!
Capacity: 162 RV sites
More Information: Clifty Falls State Park Campground
2 Rivers Campground
Amenities: This is one of the newer options for RV camping near Clifty Falls State Park, located in Kentucky with a mix of back-in and pull-through sites. They’re open year-round and offer river access, full hookups, and even have a playground for the kids! You can stay here on a daily or weekly basis. From April 1 to October 31, there is a 15-day maximum stay.
Capacity: 33 RV sites
More Information: 2 Rivers Campground
General Butler State Resort Park
Amenities: Located across the state line in Kentucky, this RV campground has full hookups, grills, a restaurant, and even meeting rooms if you need them. While it is open year-round, you will need to call them in the winter months to reserve a space.
Capacity: 104 RV sites
More Information: General Butler State Resort Park
Coopers Creek Campground
Amenities: For travelers who like to be near water, this is one of the RV parks near Clifty Falls State Park they would be wise to consider. In addition to a boat launch for those eager to get on the water, their sites have Ohio River views, full hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, a shelter house available for reservations, and more.
Capacity: 29 RV sites
More Information: Coopers Creek Campground
Best Time To Visit Clifty Falls State Park for RV Camping
Choosing the best time to visit Clifty Falls State Park depends quite a bit on weather conditions since the strength of the waterfalls for which the park is named are at the mercy of Mother Nature. Here’s a quick primer on what may await you on visits to Clifty Falls State Park in different seasons.
Winter
In winter, high temperatures range from the high 30s to the low 40s Fahrenheit. And while it can seem dreary, you can still have an enjoyable visit to Clifty Falls State Park in even this coldest of seasons. Photogs will be particularly pleased with the icicles that can form on and around frozen (or near-frozen) waterfalls.
It can snow, but it also may rain in winter at Clifty Falls State Park. While nature hikes won’t be as green, they also won’t be as busy in winter — and neither will any of the RV parks near Clifty Falls State Park this time of year.
Spring
Spring brings Clifty Falls State Park back to life with March’s average high temperatures in the low 50s making way for May’s highs in the low 70s. By the end of spring, the rainy season will have arrived. May sees an average of 23 days of precipitation each year, compared to 17 days of precipitation in April.
The waterfalls will likely be strong, and trees and wildflowers will be in full bloom, making your hikes so much more lively and beautiful. Many regulars consider April the best time to visit Clifty Falls State Park.
Summer
Visit Clifty Falls State Park in summer for the second best chance of seeing the many waterfalls of the park at their strongest; the summer months rival spring in terms of average monthly rain. Highs will stay in the mid-80s for most of the summer, but humidity will also be quite high.
You can’t duck under the waterfalls to cool off, but summertime is when Clifty Falls State Park’s swimming pool is usually open (depending on weather cooperation and staff availability). In general, summer is quite busy, so reserve a spot at one of Clifty Falls State Park RV sites ahead of time!
Fall
While spring is the time to see the trees and flowers bloom, autumn is the time at Clifty Falls State Park to check out the trees at their seasonal boldest. Bursting into a mix of bright oranges, yellows, and subtle browns, the colors provide a gorgeous canopy for hikers out enjoying the 12 miles of trails at Clifty Falls State Park.
Temperatures fall from September’s highs in the high 70s to November’s significantly cooler highs in the low 50s. The waterfalls won’t be as strong, but their relative calmness is perfect for those who prefer the milder temperatures and atmosphere of fall.
Things To Do in Clifty Falls State Park
Compared to other state parks it can seem quite small, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t many things to do in Clifty Falls State Park. Here is a list of some of the activities you can engage in at Clifty Falls State Park to help you with planning your visit.
- Hike. There are ten trails within Clifty Falls State Park, adding up to a total of 12 miles of trails available; the shortest is half a mile long, while the longest trail is a 4.5-mile trek.
- See waterfalls. There are four named waterfalls that get the most attention, but depending on water levels and where you hike, there is the chance to possibly see 18 more!
- Swim. Since the waterfalls are effectively off-limits, an outdoor pool instead provides visitors with opportunities to cool off in the summer months.
- Learn history. While bankruptcy led to the abandonment of the 600-foot tunnel located in the park in 1852, you can learn about how it might have factored into operations of the Madison and Indianapolis Railroad.
- Participate in nature-centric events. Get to know the plant and animal life of Clifty Falls State Park by going to special events like the Owl Prowl, Much Ado About Mosses, and more!
There’s so much to see and do around Clifty Falls State Park, so make sure to book enough time to partake in the activities your heart desires!
Tips for Visiting Clifty Falls State Park
While you were introduced to Clifty Falls State Park facts earlier that were more general, what follows here are more specific facts and tips. You need to know what things to do in Clifty Falls State Park, but also should know what not to do!
- For your safety, no one is allowed directly above or below the waterfalls of Clifty Falls State Park at any time.
- The use of metal detectors is prohibited.
- If camping, you are not permitted to gather limbs, brush, or trees (whether dead or alive) for firewood, in order to protect the natural environment.
- Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet.
- You may not remove any fossils you find from Clifty Falls State Park.
- If hiking, stay on designated trails and don’t take any shortcuts, as they can cause erosion or lead to dangerous areas.
Feeling ready to hit the road yet? Let’s go!
RV Rental for Clifty Falls State Park
For travelers with an RV rental, Clifty Falls State Park is a solid chance to see one of the Hoosier State’s most beautiful natural attractions. If you haven’t yet secured an RV rental, you need to contact Cruise America.
With a wide selection of RVs suitable for any road trip and families big and small, Cruise America knows what you need. You’ll even have the option to pick up your RV at one of our convenient locations near you.
Get in touch with Cruise America today to get your show on the road!