Numerous Outdoor Adventures Await
From the hills of Hoosier National Forest to the banks of the Ohio River, the great outdoors is calling. Whether it’s hiking, biking, camping, fishing, boating, or all of the above; Perry County offers numerous outdoor adventures. From beginners to experts in outdoor recreation, Perry County offers an outdoor adventure for all. With smiling faces and visitor-friendly amenities, the people of Perry County welcome you to explore nature at your pace.
Camping
The area of Hoosier National Forest found in Perry County offers several camping locations featuring lakes with sandy beaches, boat launches and recreation areas.
Glenn Wood Hills Camp & Retreat Center also offers a beautiful, private camping location with several lodging and recreation options.
Fishing
With access to over 18,000 acres of water, Perry County is an angler’s year-round fishing paradise. Try your luck for bass, crappie, bluegill, sauger, catfish, or striped bass.
Some of Perry County’s best fishing embayments are: Oil Creek, Poison Creek, Bear Creek and Deer Creek. Oil, Poison and Deer all can be accessed from the Ohio River, and anglers can make their way a number of miles up the meandering streams for fishing in areas with excellent structure.
The Hoosier National Forest also has plenty of fishing opportunities. This includes four good fishing lakes – Tipsaw, Indian-Celina, and Saddle. All four are stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, redear and catfish, and are rarely crowded. All four lakes have boat ramps and no gasoline motors are permitted, but electric trolling motors can be used.
Parks and Greenways
With a commitment to providing residents and visitors with opportunities to connect with nature, these outdoor spaces offer a wealth of recreational activities and natural beauty. From the tranquil banks of the Ohio River to the lush forests and rolling hills, Perry County’s parks invite visitors to explore and unwind amidst stunning landscapes. With a focus on conservation and community engagement, the Perry County Parks & Recreation Department ensures that these cherished spaces remain accessible and preserved for generations to come. Some amenities available at these parks consist of scenic overlook or the Ohio River and Cannelton Locks & Dam, public boat launches, walking trails, shelter houses, and restroom facilities
Nestled within the heart of Tell City, Indiana, lies a collection of inviting parks and scenic greenways meticulously managed by the Tell City Parks & Recreation Department. These green spaces offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing residents and visitors alike with opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and community connection. From the expansive Hagedorn Park, offering sprawling fields for sports and picnics, to the serene riverside trails of Sunset Park, where walkers and joggers can enjoy tranquil views of the Ohio River, Tell City’s parks cater to a diverse range of outdoor interests. With well-maintained amenities such as playgrounds, pavilions, and sports courts, these parks serve as hubs of activity and enjoyment for individuals and families year-round. The Tell City Parks & Recreation Department’s dedication to maintaining and enhancing these green spaces ensures that they remain cherished assets within the community for all who visit.
Hiking and Horseback Riding
With 84 miles trails to explore, hiking is one of the most popular activities at the Hoosier National Forest throughout the year. Group hikes are frequently scheduled by the Perry County Parks & Recreation and are open to visitors.
50 miles of the Hoosier National Forest trails are open to horseback riding. Most notably, the German Ridge, Mogan Ridge, and Oriole trails wind through tall pines and include stream crossings and scenic views.
Hunting
Perry County offers great hunting experiences any time of the year. Whether it is deer in the fall, ducks in the winter, or turkeys in the spring, you are sure to find excitement. With more acres of the Hoosier National forest than any other county in the state, Perry County has several hunting sites to choose from. The Ohio River, and many public lakes, offer some great waterfowl spots.
Swimming
Sand beaches welcome swimmers at Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area and German Ridge Recreation Area within the Hoosier National Forest. Also, the Tell City Municipal Pool is a great way to cool off in the hot summer months.
Biking
The rolling hills of Perry County are a bicyclist’s dream because the landscape is both challenging and picturesque. Perry County offers eight different biking routes which wind through the county. Routes range from 2o miles to 85 miles in distance.
Boating
You’ll never find the Ohio River crowded. Boaters have thousands of acres of water on which to boat, ski, canoe, fish, and swim. Plus, there are plenty of places to pull up a boat for a picnic or camping.
There are boat ramps both above and below the Cannelton Locks and Dam. You can put in a boat at one of the ramps at Troy, Tell City, Cannelton, Rocky Point, Rome, Magnet, Mano Point, or Derby. You can also enjoy the five lakes at the Hoosier National Forest which are Tipsaw, Celina, Indian, Rainbow, and Saddle.
Paddle Perry
Paddle Perry is a local group of adventure seekers who explore Indiana’s waterways and lay witness to the extraordinary beauty that the region has to offer. Paddle Perry often schedules half and full-day events, as well as overnight trips, safety courses and SUP Yoga classes January through October. All levels are welcome to join in the fun!
Don’t miss out on their annual Pack A Dam Lock event! Guiding 100 paddlers down the Ohio River and locking through the Dam provide many people the chance to do something new in a safe environment. This event is held on the last Saturday in July.
Mission Statement: We strive to improve quality of life and appreciation for nature’s beauty by providing activities on local waterways, environmental awareness, conservation, and safety education. We strive to make our waterways healthy and enrich our environment for our community.
Shubael Little Pioneer Village
Shubael Little Pioneer Village is a quaint village that offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its meticulously preserved pioneer-era buildings and artifacts. From log cabins to a one-room schoolhouse, each structure tells a story of resilience and community spirit. Visitors can immerse themselves in hands-on activities, workshops, and events that bring the pioneer experience to life, making it a cherished destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.
