Caves, Historic Treasures, and Outdoor Adventures Await in Southern, Indiana, By Melody Schubert: Home to one of Indiana’s largest state parks, underground river boat rides, and unique hand-made goods, Lawrence County, Indiana is ideal for outdoor adventures and weekend getaways.

Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell, Indiana

When we think of Lawrence County the first picture that comes to mind is our trips with our children to Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell, Indiana. Spring Mill State Park has plenty of great activities for a wide variety of experiences including camping, hiking, mountain biking, and swimming. One of the offers a truly unique experiences at Spring Mill State Park is a visit to the restored 1800s Pioneer Village, set with a working grist mill as the centerpiece.

Here you can explore pioneer log houses, a village store, a meeting house and other structures in the Pioneer Village. Interpreters such as a weaver, carpenter, and blacksmith demonstrate Indiana pioneer life and trades. You can also tour the working grist mill and purchase the ground corn meal through the month of October. Did I mention there are also caves in the area? Yes, Southern Indiana has many caves to explore, and there are a number of tours available as well. Set off on one of the many of the Hiking trails weave through the Spring Mill State Park and explore those that led to the Donaldson Cave, Bronson Caves, and Twin Caves.

Did You Know?

Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom was the second American to fly into space in 1961.

Out Of This World With Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom

While the Spring Mill State Park's historic past comes to life in the pioneer village, guests can explore the out of this world history of a hero who called Mitchell, Indiana his hometown. At the Grissom Memorial, located inside the park entrance we found the Gemini III space capsule, an astronaut suit, and NASA memorabilia highlighting Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom's voyage into space.

Guest Can Camp Out or Relax At The Spring Mill State Park Inn

Enjoy camping, then pack the car with your gear and head to Spring Mill State Park where you'll find 200 campsites to accommodate RVs and tent camping. For a relaxing weekend away stay overnight in the state park at the Spring Mill State Park Inn. This comfortable and modern lodging facility has plenty of modern amenities to enjoy, including an indoor pool, fireplace great rooms, and a full-service dining room, and is located in the heart of the park. 

The Annual Persimmon Festival

Autumn is a beautiful season in any state park, but at Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell, the fall activities go beyond viewing fall color. This state park offers a range of unmatched experiences and colorful leaves, too. In Late September we joined the annual Persimmon Festival held in Mitchell. It is just a short drive from Spring Mill State Park to Mitchell where for over 60 years, this fall festival has commemorated the unique fruit that grows in this area. The festival features midway rides, food booths, entertainment, and a parade. Yet what draws guests from all over are the samples persimmon baked goods and puddings.

The Annual Limestone Heritage Festival

Tucked within southern Indiana’s rolling hills is Bedford, the county seat, located just 30 minutes south of Bloomington, Indiana. I can recall tales of my parents heading down south to swim in the limestone quarries in and around Bedford. Among the festive events we've enjoy is the annual Limestone Heritage Festival held in Early July in Bedford, Indiana. There's a little bit of everything to share with family and friends, including great food, activities, a parade, historical displays that demonstrate Bedford’s limestone heritage, and more fun over this Fourth of July weekend.

The Gardens Bed & Breakfast

When looking for a cozy bed and breakfast in Bedford we recommend the Gardens Bed & Breakfast that provides relaxing accommodations and goodies such as warm chocolate chip cookies in the evening and a full breakfast with hot coffee served in your room. Here, guest are welcomed by friendly smiles, enjoy great food, and can explore all that Lawrence County has to offer.

Boat Rides on an Underground River at Bluespring Caverns Park

One of our favorite activities are the Boat Rides on an Underground River at Bluespring Caverns Park in Bedford. This casual boat ride takes you through the nation’s longest navigable underground waterway is located within the depths of the limestone landscape. Guided boat rides take visitors on a tour through water carved passages where blind fish can be found. It is a rare experience and one that everyone is sure to enjoy.

We hope you have a memorable trip exploring Lawrence County, Indiana's beautiful country side and attractions!

Go Spelunking In Southern, Indiana: Best known for its heritage of limestone quarries and carvings, Lawrence Crawford Counties in Indiana have many exciting outdoor adventures to enjoy. A favorite outdoor adventure is Spelunking. The best way to discover more about the areas caves and Limestone history is to take one of the guided tours. Of course, you can also get a few tips from the locals on caving and great attractions to explore and head out on your own adventure.