Mccormicks Creek State Park

4.37

35 reviews

250 McCormicks Creek Park Rd, Spencer, Indiana, 47460, United States

Scenic Views

Featured in:Forest Camping Indiana Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Indiana Swimming Camping Indiana

Quick Facts

814 ft

Price

$2 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

814 ft

Price

$2 - $9/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Mccormicks Creek State Park

$2.00 - $9.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The entrance fee is $7 per vehicle for in-state plates and $9 per vehicle for out-of-state plates, charged seven days a week. Pedestrians, bicycles,...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

8128292235

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.37

Recommended

Based on 35 reviews

3827 Google reviews

Most mentioned

hikingstafffriendlywell-maintained

"Reviews of McCormicks Creek State Park highlight its natural beauty, family-friendly atmosphere, and variety of recreational opportunities. Some users expressed concerns about the impact of tornado damage and closures, while others praised the cabins and amenities like the Canyon Inn."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

250 McCormicks Creek Park Rd, Spencer, Indiana, 47460, United States

Mccormicks Creek State Park

250 McCormicks Creek Park Rd, Spencer, Indiana, 47460, United States

Driving directionsFROM THE NORTH: I-70 OR SR 67 S. TO U.S. 231, S. TO SPENCER, INDIANA. AT INTERSECTION OF U.S. 231 & SR 46, TAKE SR 46 E. ABOUT 2 MILES TO ENTRANCE. FROM THE SOUTH: SR 37 N. TO SR 46 W., ABOUT 7 MILES W. OF ELLETTSVILLE TO THE ENTRANCE. FROM THE EAST: SR 46 W. THROUGH ELLETTSVILLE, ABOUT 7 MILES TO ENTRANCE. FROM THE WEST: SR 46 E. THROUGH SPENCER AND CONTINUING ON SR 46 TO THE ENTRANCE.

Road access to the campground is paved and accessible year-round. However, SR 46 is a major route, and traffic conditions may vary. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.

Nearby places

Spencer (approx. 2 miles), Bloomington (approx. 17 miles), Ellettsville (approx. 7 miles), Indianapolis (approx. 50 miles).

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be obtained less than 1 mile from the park for bait and tackle. Grocery stores, fuel stations, and a medical clinic are greater than 1 mile from the park. Additional amenities such as malls and shopping centers are greater than 10 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Mccormicks Creek State Park

Each season paints McCormick's Creek in distinctive colors and moods. Winter transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland, with icicles adorning canyon walls and peaceful snow-covered trails perfect for quiet contemplation. Spring awakens the forest floor with wildflowers and rushing waters from seasonal rains. Summer invites long days of exploration under the cooling canopy, though warm temperatures and Indiana humidity make creek-side picnics especially refreshing. Autumn steals the show with a spectacular display of crimson and gold foliage that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer popular; pool open seasonally and trails accessible for warm-weather recreation.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 17% in IN

Autumn foliage and clear-weather reviews mark fall as a peak scenic season.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring scenic renewal but tornado damage and seasonal closures have impacted access recently.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Top 8% in IN

Winter offers peaceful, snowy canyon scenery and icicles, but some closures and limited services.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: The park is open year-round, but seasonal amenities such as pools and specific trails may have limited availability.
Current Alerts: The campground and several trails are closed due to tornado damage. Cleanup efforts are ongoing.

About Mccormicks Creek State Park

Discover Indiana's oldest state park, where ancient limestone canyons carve through verdant forests and cascading waterfalls create a natural symphony. McCormick's Creek State Park beckons adventurers with miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through dramatic ravines and over historic stone bridges. Beloved by generations of Hoosiers as one of the state's crown jewels, this natural sanctuary offers an enchanting escape where families gather to explore hidden grottos, splash in creek beds, and create memories beneath towering sycamores.

The campground offers accommodation options like group camping, cabins, and traditional campsites. However, the campground has been impacted by tornado damage, with extended closures noted.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the historic Canyon Inn, where wellness seekers once journeyed in the early 1900s to 'take the waters' at this pioneering spa and sanitarium. This beautifully preserved landmark now welcomes modern travelers with rustic charm and stories etched into every timber beam. The inn stands as a testament to Indiana's early tourism heritage and the enduring appeal of nature's restorative powers.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints McCormick's Creek in distinctive colors and moods. Winter transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland, with icicles adorning canyon walls and peaceful snow-covered trails perfect for quiet contemplation. Spring awakens the forest floor with wildflowers and rushing waters from seasonal rains. Summer invites long days of exploration under the cooling canopy, though warm temperatures and Indiana humidity make creek-side picnics especially refreshing. Autumn steals the show with a spectacular display of crimson and gold foliage that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region.

Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry unfolds at every turn, from the dramatic limestone cliffs that frame McCormick's Creek to the gentle waterfalls that tumble into emerald pools below. Ancient trees arch overhead, creating cathedral-like groves where sunlight filters through leaves in dancing patterns. The park's signature canyons reveal millions of years of geological history in their stratified walls, while moss-covered boulders and fern-filled hollows create intimate natural sanctuaries perfect for quiet reflection.

Geological RegionCarved into southern Indiana's distinctive karst landscape, McCormick's Creek showcases nature's patient sculpting over millennia. Here, water has worked its magic on ancient limestone bedrock, creating a wonderland of sinkholes, caves, and box canyons unique to this geological region. The park's dramatic gorges and disappearing streams tell the story of an underground world where water continues to shape and reshape the land, offering visitors a glimpse into the powerful forces that created this remarkable terrain.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the park's direct contact line or online platforms.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability details are not provided.

AccessibilityThe park offers some accessible features, but the steep trails and stairs to the waterfall may pose difficulties for those with mobility issues.

Site Size+

PrivacyMixed-level privacy depending on location; cabins and campsites vary in seclusion.

Recommended SitesUser reviews suggest viewing the waterfalls and hiking trails such as Trail 3. Cabins are recommended for families.

Amenities available

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

A variety of recreational opportunities are available at McCormicks Creek State Park. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, swimming, horseback riding, and cultural programs. Seasonal and storm-related closures have impacted certain trails and facilities.

HikingHiking trails range from easy to rugged, with scenic areas like the canyon and waterfall. Trail 3 is a popular choice due to its challenging terrain and creek access. Tornado damage has affected some trails.

FishingFishing is available in the park’s streams and rivers. Specific types of fish are not identified.

SwimmingThe pool is open on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with varied weekday hours. Details on safety measures are not provided.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include spotting river otters, fish, and various bird species. Locations and seasons are not detailed.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park hosts cultural programs, history exhibitions, and guided walks. Specific schedules are not mentioned.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTornado damage has affected trails and campgrounds since March 2023. Rocks near waterfalls are slick and pose safety risks.

Active AlertsThe campground and several trails are closed due to tornado damage. Cleanup efforts are ongoing.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available in Spencer, Indiana, including a hospital and police station. The nearest ranger station is within the park.

Trash & RecyclingThe park provides trash disposal services, but specifics on recycling facilities and pickup schedules are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe park has rivers, streams, and waterfalls that are accessible via trails.

Camp HostCampground hosts are available within the facility.

Weather at Mccormicks Creek State Park

Reviews

4.4

35 reviews

Recommended

Mccormicks Creek State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews of McCormicks Creek State Park highlight its natural beauty, family-friendly atmosphere, and variety of recreational opportunities. Some users expressed concerns about the impact of tornado damage and closures, while others praised the cabins and amenities like the Canyon Inn.

Review Summaries

Based on 35 reviews

What Campers Love

"Beautiful park," "great hiking trails," "friendly staff," "well-maintained cabins," and "fantastic restaurant" are commonly mentioned. Families appreciate the board games available in cabins and the...

Based on 35 reviews

Common Concerns

Tornado damage has caused extended closures of the campground and trails. Some users noted inconvenient restroom closures and disappointing food experiences at the Easter Buffet.

Based on 35 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring proper footwear for slippery rocks near waterfalls and your own bedding for cabins. Check trail and facility availability due to ongoing tornado recovery efforts.

Based on 35 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer and autumn are popular for their clear weather and scenic foliage. Tornado season (spring) has had a significant impact on access and usability.

Based on 35 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This is one of my favorite Indiana state parks.' - Angelo Constantine 2. 'The cabins are top-notch with kitchens but require guests to bring their own essentials.' - Susan Ruggles 3. 'Trail 3...

Based on 35 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Cabins are highly praised for their amenities, though some lack modern conveniences like garbage disposals. Group sites are well-equipped for gatherings.

Based on 35 reviews

Accessibility Features

Steep trails and stairs to waterfalls challenge users with mobility issues. Cabins require guests to bring their own essentials, which could be cumbersome.

Based on 35 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Some users recommend making old cabins pet-friendly.

Based on 35 reviews

0 review

Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

Been to Mccormicks Creek State Park? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.

Last updated January 13, 2026

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in Indiana

Campgrounds

Mccormicks Creek State Park