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Shades State Park Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels

state park in Indiana, United States

About Shades State Park

Shades is the smaller quieter cousin ofTurkey Run State Park. Just 10 minutes down the road from Turkey Run, Shades boasts many of the same types of sandstone features as Turkey Run on a smaller scale but in a more natural, secluded location. Shades used to be home to Native Americans, specifically offshoots of the Miami tribe. In the late 1820s settlers arrived after the area was ceded to the US government by the Miami's. Due to the poor soil and distinct land topography the area was not used for farming, maintaining its beautiful environment. Many tales of Indian battles and ghostly creatures called "shades" haunting the area are legendary tales of the park. The title of "The Shades of Death" for these little ghostly shades gave the park its name. Since the park name "The Shades of Deat

Where to Eat in Shades State Park

Must-try local food and restaurants:

  • 🍴A Country A-Fair
  • 🍴Susie's Kitchen
  • 🍴Turkey Run Inn Restaurant

Where to Stay in Shades State Park

  • 🏨Clements Canoes Outdoor Center
  • 🏨Lake Waveland

Shades State Park Travel Guide Sections

Our comprehensive guide covers 11 sections including:

UnderstandGet inFees and permitsGet aroundSeeDoBuyEatSleepStay safeGo next