Riverside park featuring ancient fossil beds, an immersive interpretive center, and scenic trails along the Ohio River.

General Information

Hours:

Park Grounds: Daily, 7am to 11pm
Interpretive Center: Monday–Saturday: 9am to 5pm; Sunday: 1pm to 5pm

Fees:

Interpretive Center (Ages 12+): $9
Ages 5–11: $7
Under 5: Free
Parking: $2 per vehicle
Indiana State Park Pass waives parking fee only

Pet Policy:

Pets are allowed on a 6-foot leash; not permitted inside buildings

Seasons:

All year; fossil beds most accessible August through October

Location:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/8Xz5Zz7XzZzq5z9A6

Website:

https://fallsoftheohio.org/

How to Get There

Take I-65 N from Louisville, cross the Ohio River, take exit 0 toward US-31/Clarksville, then follow signs to Riverside Drive and the park entrance.

Overview

The Falls of the Ohio State Park offers a rare window into prehistoric life with its 390-million-year-old Devonian fossil beds—the largest exposed beds of their kind in the world. Situated along the Ohio River, the park’s interpretive center provides a dynamic introduction to the region’s ancient marine ecosystem through immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and panoramic views of the fossil-laden riverbank. Visitors can walk directly on the fossil beds when river levels are low, discovering coral formations, crinoids, and other remnants of a tropical sea that once covered the area.

Beyond its geological wonders, the park is a hub for outdoor recreation and education. Hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and riverside picnic areas make it a favorite for families and nature lovers. The park also celebrates National Fossil Day each October with guided hikes and special programming. Whether you're a budding paleontologist or simply seeking a scenic riverside escape, the Falls of the Ohio offers a unique blend of natural history and modern amenities that make it a must-visit destination in the Midwest.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the https://fallsoftheohio.org/, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.