Indiana, known fondly to residents and folks around the United States as 'The Hoosier State' (for no particular reason that anyone knows of), is chock-full of gems, be they well-known or hidden. In some places, finding lesser-known natural beauty is a little tougher, but thankfully, here we don't have that problem. Scattered throughout our lovely state are plenty of places where we can reconnect with nature, many of which aren't even usually very crowded! If you play your cards right, these beautiful little slices of heaven could be your next away-from-it-all destinations, sans the crowds of more highly-trafficked spots.
Jug Rock is a fascinating and odd little wonder of geology thought to be anywhere from 286 to 365 million years old. At 42 feet high, it's the tallest object in the area (save for the trees), and it kind of sticks out like... well, a random, super-tall table rock in the woods.
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And, indeed, it is- the sandstone monolith is the only free-standing table rock formation east of the Mississippi River.
This beautiful and seldom-appreciated little hunk-o-heaven is actually Indiana's newest state park! It's situated where the Wabash and Tippecanoe rivers meet, and there are tons of ways to kill an afternoon here. There are shelters available for reservations for campers, and of course, you can't miss the other fun stuff like fishing, hiking and even an aquatic center.
Address: 5545 Swisher Road, West Lafayette, Indiana, 47906
Oh, wow. Where do we even begin when it comes to this piece of paradise that nobody ever talks about? Situated right on beautiful Lake Monroe, there's enough things to do that a long weekend here might be more appropriate than just a day trip.
Activities include hiking, camping, swimming, and so much more.
This spot is so well-hidden that oftentimes, should you visit at just the right time (which isn't difficult- try the middle of a day in the middle of the week!), you'll be made to feel like you're on a private beach. It feels as luxurious as it is!
"Ouabache", though it looks complicated, is pronounced exactly the same way as "Wabash," as in the Wabash River, is. Coincidentally (or perhaps not), that's the very river that runs through this little sweet spot. 30 miles south of Fort Wayne, this state park is also home to Kunkel Lake, where visitors are encouraged to go fishing and boating. There's also hiking, a beautiful swim-friendly beach, and a bison exhibit!
Address: 4930 E State Road, Bluffton, Indiana, 46714
What's this? A natural wonder that runs right through the heart (or should we say basement?) of Indiana's capital city. This is an actual stream that ran (and still runs) right through the planned Indianapolis city streets. So, what did developers do? They boxed the stream in with concrete and built over it. It's 2.5 miles long, completely walkable, and varies in size and strength depending on natural runoff, just like a stream that isn't entombed in concrete- just exercise extreme caution, because due to the tunnel built around Pogue's Run, a flash flood can be particularly disastrous for explorers.
Address: It's tough to say, but you're likely best off starting at 2300 North Dequincy St, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46218
How many of these not-so-legendary little gems have you heard of? Have you visited any of them? Do you have any favorites that didn't make this list? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments section below!
Fun fact: the sun is constantly abuzz with activity of all sorts, and every 11 years, we here on Earth get to witness what's called the solar maximum. During this time, the 11-year solar cycle peaks, and the North and South poles essentially "switch" places - and something incredibly magical happens. The Aurora borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights, becomes visible significantly further south than usual - and this year, Indiana might just be in for the show of a lifetime. It's almost time for Northern Lights 2024 in Indiana: get all the details!
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It's worth mentioning first and foremost that lights seen in Indiana won't likely be as dramatic as the ones visible in, say, Norway, but part of the aurora's mystique is its ever-changing, ever-shifting face.
In 2024, the sun will reach its 11-year maximum, enhancing aurora chances for places much further south than usual. Officially, the "lowest visible" point of the aurora will reach as low as the 40th parallel, which, lucky for us, cuts right through Indianapolis.
Therefore, anywhere north of Indy is fair game for Northern Lights action - just find a nice, dark sky, and look north.
We've already been blessed with incredible Northern Lights shows earlier this year. Parts of the country were able to see this bucket list sight from much further south than ever before--like northern Mississippi!
Auroras can be tough to time, so keeping an eye on social media and news outlets is helpful for determining the best time to go out. As a rule of thumb, though, the best viewing is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., local time, intensifying after 11 p.m. when they're there.
Jackie Sutherlin/Only in your State
There are several Aurora apps that are free to download, and I'd recommend downloading one if the conditions are right. I use an app called My Aurora, which gives you up-to-date weather conditions, a forecast by the hour, and a map you can pull up to show where the Northern Lights have been spotted across the globe. This isn't sponsored; I genuinely like and use this app whenever I'm in an Aurora range.
Luckily for us, Indiana's nice and mostly rural, making it pretty easy to seek out dark-sky destinations for this incredibly special space-weather event.
Some of my recommendations for awesome spots include places like Beverly Shores and Indiana Dunes National Park. Campgrounds are also excellent ideas - just make sure you're north of Indy.
The further north, the better - and the more brilliant.
Another incredibly helpful resource is the Space Weather Prediction Center, which offers an awesome 30-minute forecast EVERY 30 minutes, so you have the most up-to-date data.
Once you've settled on your preferred dark sky, here are a few tips to see the Northern Lights:
Use a camera to scan the sky. Our cameras (both professional and phone cameras) can see a greater spectrum of light than we can. If you see a dull grey/white wispy cloud, that's them! Aim your camera at it and it should pop through your viewfinder.
Use a tripod. Regardless of what camera you use, you'll need a longer shutter speed to capture the moment. If you don't have a tripod, prop your camera/phone on something to keep it steady while it's taking the photo.
Find clear skies. Clouds will be your biggest enemy. There could be a vibrant aurora happening in the sky, but if it's cloudy, it's going to block your view. Watch where the clouds are moving and try to drive away from them.
If you're south of Indy, don't fret - you might still be able to see something, especially if you're far away from city lights and/or you have a camera capable of shooting long exposures. Sometimes, the northern lights are visible as far south as northern Arizona to a camera's eye.
As for the big when, the solar max will max out, so to speak, in the fall - but leading up to that, keep your eye on the space weather and stay alert. Hopefully, there will be many chances to see the lights this winter.
Need more dark sky ideas? Check out Tippecanoe River State Park. Need a place to stay while you're here chasing auroras? No worries - our friends at Booking.com have an amazing array of choices! Have you ever seen the aurora borealis? Share this article with someone you'd want to go on a Northern Lights hunt with.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
