Harrison County: History, Caves, and State Parks
Accommodation in Harrison County
Harrison County combines American history with caves, river landscapes, and diverse trails. The Blue River forms a large part of the western border and serves as a recreational area for residents and visitors alike. The Ohio River at O’Bannon Woods State Park, historic sites in and around Corydon, and nature experiences that can be combined into different types of travel days round out the area.
Discover History Around Corydon
Those interested in Indiana’s history will find several notable destinations in Harrison County. The Corydon Capitol State Historic Site commemorates the fact that Corydon was Indiana’s first state capital. The original capitol building was constructed between 1814 and 1816 and served as the state capitol from 1816 to 1825. The historic site also includes tours of Governor Hendricks’ Headquarters, a two-story Federal-style brick house dating from 1817.
Another historical trail leads to the Constitution Elm. Under its spreading branches, delegates drafted Indiana’s state constitution in 1816. Battle of Corydon Memorial Park contains a restored log cabin. The park commemorates the battle of July 9, 1863, in which General John Hunt Morgan’s 2,440-man Confederate cavalry division overwhelmed the Harrison County Home Guard. An easy, unpaved trail through the woods adds outdoor activity to the historical visit.
Caves, Water, and Distinctive Landscapes
Indiana Caverns offers a 25-minute boat ride on an underground river. Squire Boone Caverns also showcases the character of the karst landscape: Sinter pools open to the public are fed daily by thousands of gallons of water. At Squire Boone Caverns, Boone’s Mill still grinds grain using water from the caves, just as it did two centuries ago.
At O’Bannon Woods State Park, the landscape borders the Ohio River. The park is home to a restored, working hay press barn and a pioneer farmstead. Those planning a day by the water will find a 30-acre lake at Buffalo Trace Park for swimming, boating, and fishing. An easy, paved, well-lit, and accessible walking path offers another way to enjoy a more leisurely stay.
Trails for Longer and Shorter Outings
For a multi-day itinerary, the Adventure Trail runs through Harrison-Crawford State Forest and O’Bannon Woods State Park. The loop is approximately 25 miles long, and about three days are allotted for it. Along the route are four shelters and two basic campsites. The shelters are assigned exclusively to hikers on this trail on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Rocky Ridge Bike and Hike Trail in O’Bannon Woods State Park is a 2-mile loop near campsite 35 and leads through deep ravines and over scenic, rocky slopes. In Hayswood Nature Reserve, a trail follows Indian Creek and eventually crosses it. There is also an easy, paved, accessible walking path with a gentle incline.
Choose the Right Starting Point
When searching for a vacation rental or holiday home in Harrison County, the type of trip you want may determine your choice of starting point. For culture and regional history, Corydon, the Capitol State Historic Site, the Constitution Elm, and Battle of Corydon Memorial Park are the main attractions. Those who prefer caves and distinctive landscapes can include Indiana Caverns, Squire Boone Caverns, and O’Bannon Woods State Park in their plans. For longer days in nature, the Adventure Trail and its approximately three-day loop are good options, while the trails in Hayswood Nature Reserve and Buffalo Trace Park allow for shorter walks.
The Harrison County Popcorn Festival is also part of the county’s tradition, combining a parade, live music, vendors, and food. A free local visitor guide with discount offers is available for Harrison County.
To the broader travel overview: Indiana.
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