Adventure, amazing views, and a good workout are all things gained from time spent outdoors. The state parks in Indiana are a wonderful place to start! Discover outstanding views, amazing hidden lakes, fascinating wildlife, and much more when you travel the forested parts of the Hoosier state.

1. Whitewater Memorial State Park

Created in 1949, this is the third largest state park in Indiana. It is situated east of Indianapolis near our border with Ohio. Within its 1,700 acres, there is a 200-acre lake, hiking trails, and horse trails, and guests may hunt, fish, or swim. Explore the best of the great outdoors! Read more on the park's official DNR page.

2. Versailles State Park

This is a fun recreational area located along Laughery Creek, which is southeast of Indianapolis, closer to Cincinnati, Ohio. It is a great place to camp, hike, fish, and boat. The second largest state park in Indiana, it features a 230-acre lake and a swimming pool. Discover the most amazing activities and views Learn more on Indiana.gov.

3. Prophetstown State Park

This is Indiana's newest state park, though it opened in 2004. Named for a leader of the Shawnee, this place is full of biking and walking trails, camping spots, picnic shelters, and some of the most amazing views you'll ever see. Catch it all at this amazing state park.

4. Ouabache State Park

Pronounced the same as Wabash, this little-known place is 30 miles south of Fort Wayne on the north side of the state. The Wabash River runs through it, and locals love to stop by in the summer for beach access. See it for yourself at this underappreciated gem of a park.

5. O'Bannon Woods State Park

Spanning 2,000 acres, this marvelous place features underground caves and mountains. It is part of the Harrison-Crawford State Forest, and the Blue River runs through the park. You can even rent cabins!

6. White River State Park

Spanning 250 acres of Indianapolis, this is one of those state parks you don't even realize is there. It is home to museums, a zoo, gardens, and many more amazing attractions you just have to see. There's so much to do!

7. Brown County State Park

With 16,000 acres, this is actually Indiana's largest state park, still many do not know about it. Some say it resembles the Smoky Mountains, and guests will find ample opportunity for hiking, biking, camping, and more. Brown County State Park is wonderful for hiking.

8. Hardy Lake State Park

Stretching more than 2,000 acres, this gorgeous patch of green is a great place for fishing, camping, boating, hiking, and viewing wildlife. Surrounded by limestone bluffs and caves is a 741-acre lake. Read more in this article!

If you need more than just a quick visit to nature, check out 15 awesome cabins in Indiana you'll want to move into permanently.

What other little-known state parks do you love visiting? Share your favorites with us in the comments below.