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State Park · KY

Audubon State Park

Audubon State Park in Kentucky offers a peaceful natural retreat centered around birdwatching, hiking, and exploring historic grounds tied to famed naturalist John James Audubon.

State Park7004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

700

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Audubon State Park

Audubon State Park in Kentucky offers a peaceful natural retreat centered around birdwatching, hiking, and exploring historic grounds tied to famed naturalist John James Audubon.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Audubon State Park is located in Henderson County, Kentucky, along the Ohio River. The park encompasses approximately 700 acres of mixed hardwood forest, wetlands, and riverfront habitat ideal for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching. It honors John James Audubon, the renowned ornithologist and painter, who spent time in the region studying and illustrating native bird species. The park is home to the Audubon Museum, which displays Audubon’s works and chronicles his connection to Kentucky and the Ohio Valley. Visitors can enjoy over 7 miles of hiking and walking trails through mature forests and along wetlands that attract numerous migratory and resident bird species, making it a favored spot for birders. The park also features picnic areas, a playground, and a campground with tent and RV sites. Its location near the Ohio River provides opportunities for fishing and serene views. Audubon State Park is a serene destination for nature enthusiasts and families seeking quiet outdoor recreation, education, and history tied to one of America’s greatest naturalists. Seasonal events and interpretive programs further enhance visitor experiences. The calm environment, coupled with access to trails and water, ensures broad appeal for casual visitors and avid naturalists alike.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Audubon State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Cave-In-Rock: Nature's Ancient Hideaway★ 7.2⌖ 40 miExploration
Cave-In-Rock State Park

Cave-In-Rock: Nature's Ancient Hideaway

Explore the historic Cave-In-Rock at this quiet state park near Cave-In-Rock, IL. Known for its rich history, enjoy easy hikes with scenic views of the Ohio River. A perfect spot for fishing and wildlife watching, especially during spring and fall.

ExplorationView Details→
Garden of the Gods: Nature's Dramatic Display★ 7.8⌖ 46 miSightseeing
Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods: Nature's Dramatic Display

Explore the breathtaking Garden of the Gods in Herod, IL. This easy loop trail highlights stunning rock formations and wide views of the Shawnee National Forest. Perfect for family outings and photography, it's best visited in spring or fall when the weather is mild.

SightseeingView Details→
Discover Patoka Lake in Indiana★ 6.6⌖ 64 miBoating
Patoka Lake

Discover Patoka Lake in Indiana

Explore Patoka Lake, one of Indiana's largest reservoirs, perfect for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Enjoy scenic hikes and wildlife watching with family-friendly access and quiet solitude year-round. A fishing license is required.

Discover Hemlock Cliffs★ 7.2⌖ 65 miHiking
Hemlock Cliffs

Discover Hemlock Cliffs

Explore the 1.2-mile Hemlock Cliffs Trail in Hoosier National Forest near English, Indiana. Offering an easy hike with stunning sandstone formations and seasonal waterfalls, it's ideal for photographers and nature lovers. Best visited during spring or fall for optimal scenery and weather.

Hoosier National Forest: Indiana’s Hidden Gem★ 7.5⌖ 73 miHiking
Hoosier National Forest

Hoosier National Forest: Indiana’s Hidden Gem

Explore the scenic Hoosier National Forest, spanning over 200,000 acres near Bedford, IN. With ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing, this area is a retreat for nature lovers. Best visited in spring and fall for vibrant foliage and peaceful trails.

Discover Land Between the Lakes★ 7.8⌖ 73 miWildlife Viewing
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Discover Land Between the Lakes

Explore Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, offering over 500 miles of trails and a drive-through Elk and Bison Prairie. Ideal for wildlife viewing, hiking, and water adventures, this area is family-friendly with beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Audubon Museum showcasing original artwork and historical exhibits✦ Diverse birdwatching opportunities with over 150 recorded species✦ Trails winding through mature forests and wetland habitats✦ Ohio River views with fishing and scenic picnic spots
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Audubon State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Audubon State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Audubon State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Audubon State Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Audubon State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Audubon State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Audubon State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Audubon 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 Audubon State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use access fees apply; campground fees vary; Kentucky State Park pass accepted.

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 Audubon State Park

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

Audubon State Park Campground

Offers tent and RV sites with water and electric hook-ups, conveniently located near trails and the museum.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Audubon State Park

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

Henderson
⌖ 0.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Henderson, Kentucky

A riverside town offering peaceful water adventures, gentle trails, and easy access to natural parks along the Ohio River.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Evansville
⌖ 8.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Evansville, Indiana

A vibrant river city offering a mix of urban outdoor spaces, hiking trails, and water access for paddlers, with seasonal activities nearby in southern Indiana.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Newburgh
⌖ 12.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newburgh, Indiana

A charming riverfront town with easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and seasonal outdoor fun along the Ohio River Valley.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Mount Vernon
⌖ 17.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mount Vernon, Indiana

A riverside town known for its outdoor water activities and access to natural scenic areas along the Ohio River.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Uniontown
⌖ 19.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Uniontown, Kentucky

A quiet river town offering easy access to outdoor water activities and nearby natural areas, ideal for paddling, fishing, and casual hiking enthusiasts.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Morganfield
⌖ 20.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Morganfield, Kentucky

A quiet small town offering access to peaceful outdoor activities amidst Kentucky’s rural landscapes and lake environments.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Audubon State Park

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

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.