As I was taking a drive through several counties in southern Indiana, I happened to stop at a small store along the way. As I was there I saw a sign directing travelers to Sycamore Springs Park. Upon inquiring of the locals about the park I were told that the park was a great place to visit so off I went.
I followed the signs winding my way through the countryside until I came to the park itself.
I discovered that this wonderful park was privately owned by The Clayton Robinson Family Foundation. It is also privately funded. The park is open to individuals, social, civic, and religious groups as well as for "educational and recreational purposes".
The park sits on about 250 acres on a farm just outside English Indiana.
The boundaries of Sycamore Springs Park are formed on three sides by The Little Blue River. The park has picnic tables, benches, camping areas (with electricity and running water), and 3 shelter houses (which can be reserved for groups).
The park is very well mowed and manicured with one of the picnic areas sitting among the over 13,000 white pines planted there. There are several ponds on the land which are fed by natural spring water.
The park is open seasonally and has security gates with codes for overnight campers. For reservations and more information check out the website for Sycamore Springs Park
Here are some of the sites we saw while there:
I enjoyed our drive through the park. It was full of people having fun, nature living wild, and scenic vistas along the winding road throughout the site. A great place for a day trip and a picnic.
Until next time: Let your spirit soar as you go BackRoads Exploring!!
On one of my day trips I saw a sign for Spring Mills Sate Park and decided to check it out.
This park is located in the town of Mitchell, Indiana off Hwy 60. This is not your run of the mill state park. There was so many things to do and explore that one would have to take a weekend at least, to fully appreciate the experience this park has to offer.
When you first go in the gate, immediately to your right is a museum honoring astronaut Virgil Grissom. Grissom was a native of Mitchell, In.
After a tour of the museum, I ventured on into the park.
Spring Mills Park boasts several caves which you can explore on your own. Make sure you take a flashlight with you as these caves are still in their natural state. For the less adventurous caver, there is a spectacular boat cave tour which I took. Caves are usually a natural 69 degrees all year round.
Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, it did. As I drove through the park I happened upon a park where people were splashing in a creek there and also a small musical group playing in the park.
Continuing on this lovely scenic drive, I came upon a pioneer village. An honest to goodness full scale pioneer village. Check it out:
It was very interesting to watch tasks being done the "olde timey" way, and people in period clothing. I spent some time walking some of the many trails available throughout the park., taking pictures of nature and special things that caught my interest.
As What a wonderful way to spend the day!!!!
Until next time: Let your spirit soar as you go BackRoads Exploring!!
