Shades State Park Tours

Photo by Allison Thayer


You'll want to have your camera close at hand when you visit this protected natural landscape. It draws many tourists who come to Central Indiana. Also deserving of a few photos is Lake Waveland. Not far from Shades State Park, it's another of this area's big drawcards.

Plan a trip to see Shades State Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago
Pendry Chicago

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Shades State Park

Sugar Creek Cabin w/ Nordic spa bordering 2 state parks!

Sugar Creek Cabin w/ Nordic spa bordering 2 state parks!

Waveland
Sugar Creek Cabin w/ Nordic spa bordering 2 state parks!
Quaint Apartment - 10 Min from Turkey Run and Shades, Pet Friendly

Quaint Apartment - 10 Min from Turkey Run and Shades, Pet Friendly

Waveland
Quaint Apartment - 10 Min from Turkey Run and Shades, Pet Friendly
Cozy lakefront cabin with kayaks

Cozy lakefront cabin with kayaks

Crawfordsville
Cozy lakefront cabin with kayaks
Quaint century-old home just minutes from Turkey Run & Shades State Park w Sauna

Quaint century-old home just minutes from Turkey Run & Shades State Park w Sauna

Marshall
Quaint century-old home just minutes from Turkey Run & Shades State Park w Sauna
Luxury Amish Built Barn Home at Turkey Run

Luxury Amish Built Barn Home at Turkey Run

Marshall
Luxury Amish Built Barn Home at Turkey Run
Hampton Inn & Suites Crawfordsville

Hampton Inn & Suites Crawfordsville

2.5 out of 5
2895 Gandhi Drive, Crawfordsville, IN
Hampton Inn & Suites Crawfordsville
Best Western Plus Crawfordsville Hotel

Best Western Plus Crawfordsville Hotel

2.5 out of 5
2600 Industrial Blvd, Crawfordsville, IN
Best Western Plus Crawfordsville Hotel
Comfort Inn

Comfort Inn

2.5 out of 5
2991 N. Gandhi St., Crawfordsville, IN
Comfort Inn
Charming historic home centrally located in Crawfordsville, near Wabash

Charming historic home centrally located in Crawfordsville, near Wabash

Crawfordsville
Charming historic home centrally located in Crawfordsville, near Wabash
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Shades State Park

At Shades State Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking along scenic trails, relaxing in a peaceful campground, and taking nice walks through the park. The area features small waterfalls and recreational spots perfect for family outings. Whether you're interested in sports or simply soaking in nature, Shades State Park offers a delightful experience for everyone.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is the small town shops in Waveland, offering unique gifts and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to the Crawfordsville Plaza, where you'll find a variety of retail stores and dining options for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

At the Crawfordsville Aquatic Center, enjoy family-friendly swimming and sports activities just 10 miles from Shades State Park. Experience wellness and relaxation at the Badlands Off Road Park, located 25 miles away. For a leisurely day, tee off at the Harrison Hills Golf & Country Club, 26 miles from the park.

Adventure

Explore DePauw Nature Park, a scenic hiking trail located 23 miles from Shades State Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy outdoor adventures. For adrenaline seekers, head to Lincoln Park Speedway, 27 miles away, for thrilling motor racing experiences amidst a vibrant sports atmosphere.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Shades State Park with venues like Robe Ann Park Ampitheater, Judson and Joyce Green Center for the Performing Arts, and McAnally Center, all offering culture and entertainment within 24 miles. Enjoy family-friendly shows and romantic performances in a lively atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Shades State Park

At Shades State Park in Indiana, outdoor enthusiasts and families can explore stunning sandstone cliffs and enjoy camping within the park. The area also features nearby attractions like lakes and modern colleges, offering a blend of culture and adventure. Whether you're looking for a serene nature getaway or a fun-filled family trip, Shades State Park provides a perfect backdrop for memorable experiences.

  • Wabash College: Located 11 miles from Shades State Park, Wabash College offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with a strong focus on liberal arts education. Its historic buildings and active student life create an engaging environment for visitors interested in academic excellence and community events.
  • Ironman Raceway: A mere 9 miles away, Ironman Raceway is a thrilling destination for motorsports enthusiasts. Experience the excitement of live racing events and the electrifying atmosphere of this stadium, where speed and competition come to life.
  • Turkey Run State Park: Just 7 miles from Shades State Park, Turkey Run State Park is a haven for outdoor lovers. With its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for adventure, this national park promises scenic beauty and recreational activities amidst nature.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shades State Park

To save money on your visit to Shades State Park, plan your trip during the cheaper months of January, February, or November, and aim for a Tuesday stay. Use Expedia to find affordable accommodations by sorting prices and filtering for eco-friendly options. Consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Don't forget to explore free activities in the park and utilize public transport where possible to further cut costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shades State Park are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May, August and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Shades State Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Shades State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Shades State Park with flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia