Whitewater Memorial State Park wilderness guide
State Park · IN

Whitewater Memorial State Park

Whitewater Memorial State Park offers diverse outdoor recreation across forested hills and a large reservoir, attracting visitors for hiking, camping, fishing, and water activities in southeastern Indiana.

State Park2,7504+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

2,750

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Whitewater Memorial State Park

Whitewater Memorial State Park offers diverse outdoor recreation across forested hills and a large reservoir, attracting visitors for hiking, camping, fishing, and water activities in southeastern Indiana.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in southeastern Indiana near the Ohio border, Whitewater Memorial State Park protects over 2,600 acres of mixed hardwood forests, rolling hills, and open water on Brookville Lake, one of the largest reservoirs in the state. Created in the 1940s alongside the construction of Brookville Dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the park serves as both a recreational hub and a habitat for native wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, and bald eagles during winter months. Visitors enjoy a variety of year-round activities including hiking more than 20 miles of trails that wind through forests and along the lake shore, multiple campgrounds offering tent and RV sites, and a large marina providing access for boating and fishing. The park is notable for its scenic overlooks of the lake and forested valleys, as well as its historical ties to the Miami and Delaware tribes who inhabited the region before European settlement. Anglers target species like bass, crappie, and catfish, while bird watchers appreciate the diverse species especially during spring and fall migrations. Winter offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities on maintained trails. Its proximity to the nearby towns of Brookville and Liberty makes it accessible for day trips as well as extended stays. The combination of lake-based recreation, forested trails, and developed campgrounds make Whitewater Memorial State Park a popular destination for families, anglers, hikers, and paddlers alike.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Whitewater Memorial State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Brookville Lake - a large reservoir with excellent fishing and boating✦ Forest Loop Trail - a scenic multi-use hiking and biking route✦ Park's marina offering boat rentals and lakeside facilities✦ Seasonal bald eagle sightings during winter months
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Whitewater Memorial State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Whitewater Memorial State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Whitewater Memorial State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily vehicle entrance fees apply; Indiana state park passes accepted; no special permits required for day use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Whitewater Memorial State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Brookville Lake Campground

Largest campground within the park, offering full hook-up sites, access to the lake shore, and modern amenities.

Raccoon Ridge Campground

Wooded campsites near hiking trails with picnic tables and fire rings, suitable for tents and RVs.

Old Road Campground

A quieter, more rustic campground tucked away from the main areas, ideal for visitors seeking solitude.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Whitewater Memorial State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Brookville, Indiana
⌖ 2.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brookville, Indiana

Brookville, Indiana, is a peaceful town known for Brookville Lake and surrounding parks, perfect for hiking, paddling, fishing, and camping. It offers a relaxing outdoor setting with gentle trails and scenic water recreation.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Metamora, Indiana
⌖ 4.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Metamora, Indiana

Metamora, Indiana, is a quaint canal town perfect for paddling historic waterways, hiking gentle trails, and exploring Indiana’s 19th-century heritage. Its relaxed outdoor vibe and scenic surroundings offer a peaceful getaway from city life.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Batesville, Indiana
⌖ 12.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Batesville, Indiana

Batesville, Indiana, offers outdoor lovers peaceful hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing opportunities in and around quiet parks and forest preserves. Ideal for travelers wanting a low-key nature escape in the Midwest.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Connersville, Indiana
⌖ 15.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Connersville, Indiana

Connersville offers a quiet outdoor escape with hiking, biking, and paddling along the Whitewater River. Surrounded by scenic state parks, it’s ideal for adventurers seeking peaceful nature and Midwest charm.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Liberty, Indiana
⌖ 16.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Liberty, Indiana

Liberty, Indiana offers a peaceful small-town base for outdoor lovers seeking gentle hikes, calm paddling, and rural biking routes. Visit nearby protected parks for wildlife watching, fishing, and camping adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
College Corner, Ohio
⌖ 16.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

College Corner, Ohio

College Corner, Ohio offers a quiet gateway to low-key outdoor fun with easy hiking, paddling, and bird watching nearby. Ideal for travelers looking for peaceful nature days amid rural landscapes.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Whitewater Memorial State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Riverside Primitive Pitch: Camp Site #21 at Brookville
ADVEXPEDITION
Brookville, Indiana
LodgingADV Bookable

Riverside Primitive Pitch: Camp Site #21 at Brookville

A primitive, riverside campsite operated by Morgans Canoe and Outdoor Adventures — base rate $40/night, site rules and capacities apply; this guide outlines what to expect and what to bring.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip