A Budget-Friendly 3-Day Summer Getaway in Parke County
A Budget-Friendly 3-Day Summer Getaway in Parke County
Looking for a family vacation that’s full of adventure without a high price tag? Parke County, Indiana delivers with affordable lodging, free attractions, and optional low-cost outdoor fun you can mix and match based on your budget.
This three-day itinerary breaks your trip into simple, stress-free days that balance exploring, hiking, and getting out on the water.
Day One: Rockville, Antiques & Covered Bridges (Mostly FREE)
Morning or Early Afternoon: Arrive & Check In
Parke County, Indiana lodging is known for being budget-friendly, allowing many families to stay two or three nights for the cost of a single night elsewhere. Choose a stay near Rockville for walkability or a short drive to bridges and parks.
Covered Bridge Sightseeing (FREE)
Start your trip with one of Parke County’s most iconic and completely free activities.
With 31 covered bridges spread across the county, families can:
Walk across historic bridges
Take photos
Let kids explore safely
Turn it into a fun bridge-counting challenge
Cost: Free
Time: As long as you want
Explore Downtown Rockville (FREE to Browse)
Spend the afternoon around the Rockville Square.
Browse antique stores and boutiques
Window shop and explore local makers
Enjoy a slow-paced, walkable downtown
Browsing is free, and families can choose whether to splurge on a souvenir or just enjoy the experience.
Dinner in Rockville
Enjoy a casual, family-friendly dinner at one of Rockville’s local restaurants. Expect comfort food, reasonable prices, and welcoming atmospheres.
Budget tip: Local diners and cafés often offer generous portions that are easy to share.
Day Two: Hiking & Exploring Turkey Run State Park (Low Cost, Big Payoff)
Morning: Breakfast
Grab breakfast in town or eat at your lodging before heading out.
Turkey Run State Park
Turkey Run State Park is one of Indiana’s most famous parks and one of the best outdoor values in the state.
Entrance Fees
Indiana residents: $7 per vehicle
Out-of-state visitors: $9 per vehicle
Annual Indiana State Park Pass: $50
Once inside, nearly everything is included.
Lunch Inside Turkey Run State Park (Budget-Friendly & Convenient)
After a morning of hiking and exploring in Parke County, Indiana, it’s easiest and most affordable to stay inside the park for lunch rather than leaving and re-entering.
Families have two great options:
Option 1: Eat at the Narrows Restaurant
Located inside the Turkey Run Inn, the Narrows Restaurant offers casual, family-friendly meals featuring Indiana favorites. It’s a convenient choice for those who want a sit-down meal without packing food along.
Option 2: Pack a Picnic
For families traveling on a tighter budget, packing a picnic is a great option. Turkey Run State Park has picnic tables and shaded areas throughout the park, making it easy to enjoy lunch without spending extra money.
Budget tip:
Packing lunch can save $40–$60 for a family of four and keeps your day flexible if kids need a break.
Staying inside the park for lunch also means:
No extra driving
No re-entry lines
More time enjoying the park
Day Three: Canoeing, Kayaking or Tubing on Sugar Creek
Choose Your Water Adventure
Spend your final day enjoying Sugar Creek, one of Indiana’s most scenic waterways. Trips typically last 2–3 hours, making them ideal for families.
Tubing
$15 per tube
3-mile trip only
Hourly departures between 9 AM and 2 PM
Relaxed float perfect for kids
Canoe & Kayak Trips
$25 per canoe (add an extra person for $5)
$20 single kayak
$25 tandem kayak
Covered bridge sightseeing included along the route
Book your canoeing adventure through Turkey Run Canoe & Camping or Sugar Valley Canoeing.
Late Lunch & Ice Cream
After your time on the water, grab a late lunch near Turkey Run or Rockville, then end the trip with ice cream at a local shop. It’s an affordable, memorable way to wrap up the weekend.
There are no shortage of ice-cream shops in Parke County! Visit Gobbler's Knob Sweet Shop & Mercantile (near Turkey Run State Park), Up the Creek Boat-ique (near Turkey Run State Park), or The Tasty Freeze (near Montezuma Railroad Bridge).
Ready to Plan Your Parke County Getaway?
Affordable stays, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm make Parke County, Indiana an easy choice for families looking to stretch their travel budget.
Start planning your three-day getaway today:
Find budget-friendly lodging
Build your itinerary
Discover free and low-cost things to do