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.

2,750
Acres Protected
20+
Miles of Trails
400,000+
Annual Visitors
1949
Year Established

About Whitewater Memorial State Park

 

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.

Highlights

Highlight

Brookville Lake - a large reservoir with excellent fishing and boating

Highlight

Forest Loop Trail - a scenic multi-use hiking and biking route

Highlight

Park's marina offering boat rentals and lakeside facilities

Highlight

Seasonal bald eagle sightings during winter months

Notable Natural Features

Brookville Lake

An expansive reservoir offering fishing, boating, and waterside picnicking, created by Brookville Dam on the East Fork of the Whitewater River.

Memorial Shelter

A central picnic shelter and meeting area built to commemorate veterans, frequently used for group events and educational programs.

Forest Loop Trail

A marked multi-use trail circling diverse forest ecosystems, popular for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing.