Improvements Made at Clifty Falls, Versailles State Parks

Big improvements made just as summer begins.

File Photo

(Madison, Ind.) – The Indiana DNR park staff has made many improvements to campgrounds around the area just in time for summer.

The Indiana DNR says staff complements many of the improvements, such as enhancing campgrounds, trails, restrooms, and other facilities. Partners and volunteers helped with many of the projects and non-profit “friends” groups contributed thousands of dollars and hours.

“Creative and dedicated employees stretch the dollars that you pay when you enter the gate, rent a campsite, launch a boat or attend a special workshop or program,” said Ginger Murphy, deputy director of Indiana State Parks.

Examples of system-wide improvements include:

• Fish habitat improvements at several reservoirs.
• Various small campground improvements in different locations, ranging from leveling and adding gravel to sites to new fixtures, sinks, and dividers in comfort stations, and upgrades from 30- to 50-amp service.
• New, efficient LED lighting in various buildings, from offices to comfort stations.
• Invasive plant removal, prescribed fire, and habitat improvements totaling several thousand acres.

On a local level, Clifty Falls State Park and Versailles State Park received upgrades as well.

Clifty Falls State Park

• New trail staircases, boardwalks, platforms, and/or overlook decks were installed near waterfalls, and the Lilly Memorial viewing area was restored with new pavers.
• The pool house floor was refinished and painted, new base molding was installed, and new shower curtains and benches were added.
• The nature center has a new roof and a new pollinator habitat area.
• Big Clifty Falls, Lookout Point, and the Lilly Memorial have newly cleared vistas and great views.
• The Clifty Inn pool was repainted, caulked and sealed, and new heaters and filtration systems have been installed for the pool and spa.
• All Clifty Inn parking lot lights were replaced with new light poles and energy-efficient LED lights, and all parking lot lines have been repainted.
• Clifty Inn’s family area ceilings and fireplaces were repainted, and the floors were refinished.

Versailles State Park

• Some campsites were raised and leveled to improve drainage.
• Hiking trails and equestrian trails have new directional markings.
• The campground comfort stations have new paint and shower fixtures.
• The Brandt Natural Ara on the southeastern edge of the park is open, with a new parking lot, trails, and interpretive signage.

In total, Indiana State Park properties manage more than 2,000 buildings, 700 miles of trails, 636 hotel/ lodge rooms, 17 marinas, 17 swimming pools, 75 launching ramps, 7,701 campsites, and much more.

If you would like to view a complete list of park improvements, including park-specific improvements, you can visit the Indiana State Parks website.