Plan an active vacation if you and your family like swimming, horseback riding, hiking or canoeing, by visiting any of Indiana's state parks. Visit the Indiana DNR (Department of Natural Resources) website for locations of a state park near you State parks allow for the cheapest nightly rates as their campgrounds range from a very low rate for a primitive campsite to a little more for one with water and a electrical hookup. Many of the Indiana state parks also have hotel lodges and/or cabins, though these will be more expensive to rent.
Visit Indiana's amusement parks, if those are your preference. Holiday World, though it is smaller than some parks, has all the fun and amusement rides you would need for one day. It is located in the far southwestern corner of the state, just north of the Kentucky border. Through its website access the Lake Rudolf Campground, book a stay in the Santa's Lodge or one of the other hotels listed. Spend the day riding, eating and swimming in style.
Go cave exploring at Marengo Cave in southern Indiana and learn the difference between stalactites and stalagmites. Here you can also try your hand at gemstone mining, go canoeing and do a little souvenir shopping. Camp with your own equipment or stay in one of their camping cabins for a night or two.
Relax river side at The Riverboat Inn in Madison. You will get a better hotel price if you stay in the Paddlewheel building and still get a wonderful view of the Ohio River from the covered terrace. You can also sit on the veranda of the main hotel for as long as you like. Madison is a quaint town with many antique stores and cafes. Tour a historic home or site such as the Madison Railroad Station, take a stroll along the river or visit Clifty Falls State Park about 5 miles out of town.
