Clifty Falls State Park
00 review1501 Green Rd., MADISON, Indiana, 47250, United States
Clifty Falls State Park
$7.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A one-time $7 entrance fee is charged per vehicle upon arrival. Pool access requires an additional fee.
About this campground
Discover your perfect basecamp at Clifty Falls State Park, where peaceful nights under the stars give way to adventurous days exploring thundering waterfalls and rugged canyon trails. Recently renovated facilities and welcoming park staff ensure your comfort, while the seasonal swimming pool provides a refreshing retreat after a day of hiking through this dramatic landscape.
Clifty Falls State Park accommodates different types of campers, including primitive, RV, and tent camping. Group and cabin lodging options are also available.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the park's fascinating historical features, including the mysterious bat tunnel that once served local communities. Just minutes away, the charming river town of Madison beckons with its beautifully preserved downtown, where 19th-century architecture lines streets filled with antique shops, local eateries, and stories of Indiana's rich past.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons that transform the park's character throughout the year. Winter brings a crystalline beauty with frozen waterfalls and frost-covered cliffs, while summer invites you to cool off beneath the forest canopy during warm, humid days. Autumn steals the show as the hardwood forests explode in brilliant golds and ambers, creating a photographer's paradise.
ElevationChallenge yourself on trails that climb dramatically through the park's varied terrain, offering heart-pumping ascents rewarded with spectacular overlooks. While the campground itself provides a comfortable starting point, the surrounding trails feature significant elevation changes that lead to breathtaking vistas and hidden waterfalls.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape carved by ancient waters, where dramatic cliffs tower above boulder-strewn creeks and multiple waterfalls cascade through deep ravines. Spring wildflowers carpet the forest floor, while summer brings lush green canopies alive with wildlife. The park's seasonal bat caves offer glimpses into a hidden ecosystem, adding another layer of natural wonder to your camping experience.
Geological RegionPerched in Indiana's scenic southeastern corner along the mighty Ohio River, Clifty Falls showcases millions of years of geological history written in stone. Ancient limestone cliffs, carved by persistent streams, create a rugged wonderland of canyons, waterfalls, and fossil-rich rock formations. The park's unique bat caves provide shelter for these nocturnal creatures, highlighting the area's remarkable biodiversity and geological complexity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park is described as accommodating for physically disabled individuals. One reviewer noted that there is an area where physically disabled folks can access one of the main viewing points to enjoy the waterfall.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some described as small, particularly in the non-electric tent areas. 'Some of the camping (tent) non-electric sites are very small if you have anything bigger than a 2-3 person tent,' wrote one user.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites are mixed. Sites on the outer road around the campground tend to have better sun and shade, whereas the center sites offer less tree coverage. One user mentioned that sites are 'a bit too dense.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose center sites for full sun or outer road sites for mixed sun/shade conditions.
Best CampsitesOuter road campsites offer varying sun/shade exposure; center loop sites have more sun and fewer trees.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
2PM
Stay Limit
Check-in/out is 2 PM as per user reviews. No maximum stay limits mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Only one vehicle permitted per campsite. Additional vehicles must use overflow parking.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites described as densely packed with a mix of electric and non-electric options. Layout includes center loops for full sun and outer loops for varied shade.
Open and Closed SeasonPool and some amenities are seasonal (e.g., indoor pool available in winter at the Inn). Park trails are accessible year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservation details are not provided in official sources.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not described in authoritative materials, but users mention dense campsites and a requirement to check site layout when reserving.
Cancellation PolicySpecific rules regarding cancellation policies are not available.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Clifty Falls State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, swimming, nature programs, and wildlife viewing. The hiking trails are a standout feature, with options ranging from moderate to rugged difficulty levels. Seasonal activities such as guided hikes and exploring the bat tunnel are also available.
Hiking
The park features 10 hiking trails catering to different skill levels. Trails range from 'boardwalks through the woods' to rugged paths with significant elevation changes. Highlights include cliffs, waterfalls, and a bat cave/tunnel, accessible seasonally. One reviewer noted, 'Most trails here are rugged, some even a little dangerous.' Another stated, 'Well-kept trails, beautiful waterfalls,' and recommended a map due to confusing trail connections.Swimming
The park has a swimming pool with a slide and diving board. However, the pool has received mixed reviews from users, with one describing it as 'a disaster' due to slippery patchwork and safety concerns.Biking
A 2-mile paved hike/bike trail is available, offering a more even terrain for visitors. One reviewer described it as 'a gorgeous walk even along the road.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include bird watching and observing local flora and fauna. Specific species are not mentioned, but the park's natural setting supports diverse wildlife.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers interpretive trails and nature programs. One reviewer mentioned guided hikes with times and descriptions available on the park's website.Winter Activities
The park is open year-round, and some reviewers noted enjoying the trails during colder months. One user mentioned visiting during January after a big rain, which made the waterfalls more active.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Rules about campfires are not provided.
- Quiet hours are Quiet campground ambiance noted; specific quiet hours not given.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rugged trails, steep inclines, cliffsides, seasonal flooding in trails, low cell phone coverage (especially for Verizon users), and slippery pool surfaces.
Active alertsNone noted.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station: 8122738885; Emergency services: null; Nearest hospital or police station: null.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing periods not specified.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about locations and schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresIncludes multiple waterfalls, streams, and rugged riverbeds. Trail 2 runs along the river but is seasonally inaccessible during flooding.
Common complaintsDense campsites with limited privacy, slippery pool entry, inconsistent trail markers, and minor park neglect (e.g., playground maintenance).
HostCampsite hosts are available, described as attentive and helpful.
Campground Map
1501 Green Rd., MADISON, Indiana, 47250, United States
Driving directionsFROM THE NORTH: TAKE US 421 S. TO SR 62 W. ENTRANCE IS APPROXIMATELY 4 MILES FROM THE INTERSECTION OF US 421 & SR 62. FROM THE SOUTH: TAKE US 421 N. TO SR 62 W. CONTINUE ABOUT 4 MILES FROM INTERSECTION OF US 421 & SR 62 TO PARK ENTRANCE. FROM THE EAST: ONE MILE W. OF MADISON, IN ON SR 56. FROM THE WEST: ONE MILE W. OF MADISON, IN ON SR 56 OR SR 62.
Accessible via paved roads, with clear directions provided from major routes (US 421 and SR 56). Seasonal accessibility is not noted in source materials.Nearby places
Madison (approximately 1 mile), Louisville (distance not provided but described as a 'nice east drive'), Cincinnati (distance not provided but described as 'close').
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials available in Madison, Indiana, approximately 1 mile from the park entrance.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Clifty Falls State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's rugged hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and quiet campground atmosphere. However, some complaints include dense campsites and pool safety issues.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Cleanliness of facilities, challenging and scenic hiking trails, quiet atmosphere, and friendly staff.
Common Concerns
Issues with campsite density, safety concerns at the pool, and limited cell service.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a map for hiking trails due to confusing connections. Verizon users should prepare for limited cell service. Choose outer campsites for better shade and privacy.
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews mention less crowded trails but potentially dry waterfalls. Summer reviews highlight pool use but note higher campsite density.
Camper Quotes
- 'Check in/out time is 2pm. There is a one-time $7 entrance fee.' - 'Trails vary from along the top of the cliff to fields and down into the river bed.' - 'Cleanest campground bathroom I’ve ever...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Outer loop sites have better sun and shade variations, while central loop sites are less shaded and more exposed.
Accessibility Features
A user noted an area designed for physically disabled visitors to enjoy waterfall views.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the trails are described as dog-friendly.
Last updated August 10, 2025