Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Clifty Falls
Overview
Clifty Falls State Park offers a rugged escape along the Ohio River in Southern Indiana. Known for its dramatic limestone canyons and four major waterfalls—Big Clifty, Little Clifty, Hoffman, and Tunnel Falls—the park provides a scenic backdrop for RVers. The seasonal waterfalls are most impressive in winter and spring, though the geological formations remain a year-round draw for those seeking a tranquil, nature-focused stay in the heart of the Midwest.
Location & Surroundings
Perched on a bluff overlooking the historic town of Madison, the park sits within a deeply carved canyon. The surrounding landscape features steep cliffs, diverse flora, and fossils dating back millions of years. Its position near the Indiana-Kentucky border makes it a convenient stop for those traveling through the Ohio River Valley, providing a secluded sanctuary that feels far removed from the surrounding agricultural plains while remaining accessible from major highways.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground at Clifty Falls is designed to provide a comfortable base for exploring the outdoors. The park features over 100 sites that accommodate various RV sizes. Key features include:
- Electric hookups are available at most sites to power your rig.
- Access to modern comfort stations with hot showers and clean restrooms.
- An on-site dump station and fresh water fill-up points for convenience.
- A large swimming pool and a nature center with seasonal educational programming.
While the sites offer a more rustic feel compared to private luxury resorts, the well-maintained facilities and paved pads ensure a pleasant stay for self-contained travelers.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Visitors can explore over ten hiking trails that range from easy strolls to very rugged canyon scrambles. Just outside the park gates, the historic district of Madison offers well-preserved 19th-century architecture and the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site. The nearby Ohio River provides scenic overlooks and boating opportunities, while the park’s abandoned railroad tunnel adds a unique touch of local history for those exploring the wooded paths throughout the preserve.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is an ideal match for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers who prioritize scenic views and direct trail access over luxury amenities. It is perfect for families seeking an educational retreat and RVers who enjoy a classic state park experience. If you appreciate the sounds of nature, challenging hikes, and the charm of a historic river town, this park offers a memorable and authentic Indiana experience for your next road trip.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
emm dee
Excellent hiking trails, especially if you're looking for a challenge! We completed the Four Falls Challenge on the first day and as expected, encountered almost 1000 feet of elevation, rocky terrain, and a LOT of tree roots. Both of us are experienced hikers and fell in dry conditions. Saw a child wearing flip-flops fall down dangerously close to a cliff edge! Many of these trails require serious attention and in some areas, the trail is very narrow and close to a cliff, so know your limits and enjoy the falls from the many overlooks. We hiked Trail 2 (the creek bed) and Trail 8 the second day. Again, encountered challenging circumstances; so glad I had water shoes. This is a "hard rock scramble" for 3 miles. Trail 8 is designated as "challenging" or "very rugged" and did not fail to engage every muscle but what delightfully beautiful.
Kyle Morris
Super stunning park with rugged trails and plenty of elevation change. Not for the amateur hiker! Beautiful views of the waterfalls make this park one of a kind for sure. Been here many times, I'll never get bored of what this amazing Indiana State Park has to offer. Bonus Madison is a wonderful town to walk the river front!!
Lace Layman
Lodge is great. It's a park so lots of bugs. Sliding doors open on river side to see clearly or with a screen to enjoy the air. Lots of trails. Tennis courts. Sky view day and night. Low lighting at night. Elevators. Dinning room is good, staff is hit and miss. Some very good, some never come to the table. GOOD FOOD. No complementary breakfast on Sunday when we stayed. Pool was decent. Outdoors is amazing and Madison is very cool. ♡♡♡
B H
What a great place! We visited with the intention of stretching our legs for a moment on the drive home from vacation. That brief moment turned into over three hours of finding waterfalls, swimming in the creek, and exploring the trails. We did a loop and were able to see Clifty, Little Clifty, and Tunnel falls. Down in the bottom of the canyon we were able to wade in the creek to escape the 90+ temps. What a great experience plenty left for us to explore on our next visit! Also, great picnic area and clean restrooms!!
Kyle Mosier
My daughter Gloria and I camped and hiked here in 2023 and Ellie and I did the same in 2025. Both times were great experiences. Trails were well kept. The campground (non-electric tent campsite) was nice as well. There is a pretty new bathroom we were by that was great. Very thankful for the family restroom. Makes it easy with young kids.