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https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-...
Located in Charlestown, Indiana, just across the Kentucky state line, Charlestown State Park is the best place to stay if you want to be immersed in nature while still being only a short drive from downtown Louisville. Churchill Downs is just 30 minutes away. The town itself, Charlestown, is charming and offers plenty of nearby amenities.
This beautiful state park is home to the birthplace of the Ohio River, formed during the ice age. The river itself offers a wide range of recreational activities, from water skiing and rafting to catfishing and swimming. Other outdoor activities abound, and include bicycling, boating, and ample hiking. The park is filled with wildflowers, stunning views, and even a waterfall. Park rangers offer educational programs such as archeology lessons. Meanwhile, you’re less than a mile from town and about 20 miles from the center of Louisville.