PARKE COUNTY GUIDE - Parke County COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL - VISITORS GUIDE - Rockville Indiana

Peaceful Waters Campground and The Old Goat Trading Post near Bloomingdale IN

After a full day of covered bridge shopping, Peaceful Waters Campground offers a relaxing way to unwind. Whether you like boating, fishing, or just enjoying fellowship time around a crackling fire watching the sky fill with stars, this campground offers it all.

Turkey Hill Farm Antiques & Uniques

By Sharon Clark Earl, Freelance Writer

I didn’ t know my grandmothers, but I like to think they would have lived in a home just like Karen and John Stutler’s Turkey Hill Farm Antiques and Uniques. Located down a gravel lane surrounded by fields, 1⁄4 mile south off US 47 on Marshall Road, this gem is easy to find.

Visit Clements Canoes Outdoor Center

During the Wisconsinan glaciation period, glaciers were sitting right on Central Indiana. With the melting of the glaciers, very unique topography was created including large hills and sandstone bluffs. In the 1800’s settlers started their journey West. With this movement, towns and mills were created along what is now known as Sugar Creek.

Swarey’s Variety Store in Marshall Indiana

Among the backroads of beautiful Parke County you will spot a horse-drawn buggy or two and an Amish shop every now and then. One shop you especially won’t want to miss is sitting among a pristine farm and beautiful gardens in rural Marshall, Indiana called Swarey’s Variety Store.

Bloomin’ Barn Antiques in Bloomingdale IN

Just six miles North of Rockville, Indiana in Parke County, you will find the Bloomin’ Barn tucked away in wooded seclusion. You will notice the uniqueness of the Barn as you approach it down the winding lane just off US 41.

On your visit to the Barn you will meet the owner Greg Bryant. Greg has been in the antique business since 1969. He opened his first shop behind his parents house in Bloomingdale. This is how the name Bloomin’ Barn originated.

Sportsmen Visit Pearson Sports in Marshall

The Parke County area’s abundant wildlife makes it a popular spot for sportsmen of all types for fishing, deer and turkey hunting. Duane Pearson, a native of Marshall and graduate of Turkey Run High School is the owner of Pearson Sports.

Under The Arch Restaurant in Marshall IN

Located in historic Marshall, Indiana, home of the Marshall Arch, a family set out to transform a former Massey Harris tractor implement store, the Marshall Hardware and later a print shop into their dream of a family restaurant.

Wilkins Mill Guesthouse - Bloomingdale IN

The Main Cabin at Wilkins Mill Guesthouse in Bloomingdale

For a perfect getaway in Covered Bridge Country, Wilkins Mill Guesthouse is the answer! The Main Cabin at Wilkins Mill was built in 1828 and also included a livery stable and post office at the then thriving community. In 1853 George Wilkins purchased the mill and it operated until the 1920’s.

Welcome to Central Parke County (MAP)

Ready for a leisurely getaway? We invite you to come and spend some time in Central Parke County. You can tour covered bridges, stroll around quaint town squares, visit an art gallery, wonderful meals, delicious wines and inviting inns.

2019 Featured Artist: Malcolm Moore

The Covered Bridge Art Association conducts a raffle of art from various member artists each year to help fund an art scholarship for graduating local high school art students in Parke County. This year they have chosen a remarkable piece of photography printed on canvas. The piece is of lilacs in a vase against a pleasing background. Patrons have marveled at how so painterly the piece appears. It is hard to believe it is a photograph!

Covered Bridge Campground in Rockville

Brian Williams owns and operates the Covered Bridge Campground. He has 73 sites, a shower house and public restroom. Come join us for some fun during the festival or just for a family friendly weekend!

You can view their pictures on Facebook or at www. coveredbridgecampground.com

2020 Parke County Maple Fair Festival

February 29 & March 1, 2020 • March 7 & 8, 2020

(County Wide)

Headquarters at the
Parke County 4-H Fairgrounds

• Visit Maple Syrup Camps

• Tour our 31 Covered Bridges

• Dine on Sausage & Pancakes

• Browse through Unique Shops

• Stay in a local Inn, Motel or Bed & Breakfast

Call 765-569-5226 For Maple Fair Festival Information

Eagles in Flight Weekend at Turkey Run

Join us January 24th-26th, 2020 at Turkey Run State Park where the Eagles in Flight Weekend will occur at both the Inn and Nature Center. Discover nests, an overnight roost & hunting grounds as we explore the habitats of bald eagles. Enjoy live eagle, hawk, and owl programs! Admission for the weekend is $15 for ages 13 and up, and $10 for ages 4-12. Children under age 4 get in free. Regular park entrance fees will apply: $7 for in-state and $9 for out-of-state vehicles. Use group code EAG19 to make inn room reservations at 1-877-563-4371 or IndianaInns.com.

Old Jail Inn & Drunk Tank Winery

The Old Jail Inn Parke County started in 2009, with the purchase of an 1879 flat steel, riveted door and frame in the basement of the abandoned jail. The door leads to the original Drunk Tank. The jail was transformed by Debra Olson in four months. It was a labor of love once she conceived the idea. The old jail is a destination getaway, with nine private cells turned into suites and guest rooms.

Roll On Into Wheel House Donuts

Welcome to the Wheel House, home of custommade cake donuts! You pick the icing and the toppings, and we custom-make the donut just the way you want it.

Located in the heart of Covered Bridge country, what was once a home is now a charmingly renovated coffee shop, family-owned and operated.

Rockville's Oldest! Amoré Pizza King

Amoré Pizza King, Rockville’s oldest restaurant still in business, has been feeding Parke County residents and visitors delicious, special recipe Italian cuisine and pizza since 1972. You will find classic thin crust pizza prepared on cornmeal and baked in a slate oven with more toppings per square inch than other pizzas around.

Find Treasures at Antiques On York

You will find Antiques on York a great place to take some time off from hiking Turkey Run State Park trails, or fighting the crowds during Covered Bridge Festival time. You just might end up finding a few vintage or antique treasures to take home. This corner shop located behind the Thirty Six Saloon in downtown Rockville has a wide variety of small furniture, ceramics, jewelry, dish and glass ware, antiques, primitives, re-purposed items, signage, and much more all located in its one-level, 4500 square foot mall at 100 West York Street. Inventory changes constantly so you never know just what treasures you will find! Check them out on Facebook and on the web.

Food, Shopping & Music at Solomon’s Porch

Entertainment, shopping and savory food—all in one spot— it is now available right off the square in downtown Rockville. Solomon’s Porch, located in the former Lover’s Lane building, is now offering a cafe with sandwiches, locally sourced cookies from certified kitchens and drinks for the tired and hungry shopper. Many new items have been added to the store with more coming in daily. You will find a new ladies’ boutique, items made locally including jewelry, dish towels, art work, candles, and so much more!

Monarch Bed & Breakfast in Rockville

Owning a Bed and Breakfast had always been a dream of Janet Miller for as long as she can remember. Just months ago she brought that dream to her husband, Thomas who thought it was a great idea. While deciding on a name, 6 - 8 monarch butterflies fluttered around her on the deck of their home and thus the Monarch Bed and Breakfast was born!

Urban Farmchic in Downtown Rockville

Located at 102 South Market Street in downtown Rockville, Urban Farmchic offers a distinctive shopping experience. The design talents of Rachel Engel, a licensed designer, are highlighted throughout the county meets urban style shop. The shop features an awe-inspiring collection of vintage, salvage, handmades, and boutique clothing.

Neva’s Antiques & Collectibles in Rockville

If you are looking for something from the past, an unusual item of the modern day or an antique of unique style--the place to look is Neva’s Store on the north side of the square in Rockville. It’s the most complete compilation of eclectic wares around. From locally hand-crafted pottery, jewelry, clothing and needlework to handcrafted furniture in primitive, country and the fabulously popular shabby chic styles to antiques and collectibles and more, you will find the most distinct collection at Neva’s located at 120 W Ohio Street, on the north side of the square in Rockville.

Country Home Furniture & Crafts

There’s a new store in town that you won’t want to miss. Country Home Furniture & Crafts opened its doors in September just in time for the Covered Bridge Festival!

This Amish business, owned by Nathan and Mary Ditweiler, offers a wide selection of Amishmade, hand-crafted solid wood furniture, used furniture, crafts, soy candles and gifts.

Bubble Gum Bed & Breakfast in Rockville

Indulge in the Elegance and grace of this 1909 historic victorian bed and breakfast. It sits on the edge of downtown Rockville, in the heart of covered bridge country. In August of 2007 this bed and breakfast began with the rooms Hope, Faith and Love with fluffy queen beds, TV with free WIFI in every room and a large shared bath with all essentials provided.

Welcome to Southern Parke County (MAP)

Welcome to Southern Parke County, the home of fun and festivals! — there’s one for every season from Mushroom time to Christmastime. Come see this region decked out in the delicate blooms of redbud and dogwood in the spring, the vivid greens of summer, the vibrant hues the fall brings or in the soft, pristine snow cover of winter.

Historic Bridgeton 1878 House & Barn

A Country Love Affair

By Celia Case

There’s nothing more romantic than a wedding. It’s the perfect time of your life to express yourselves, personally and as a new couple, while welcoming family and friends to the ultimate celebration! Make your wedding unforgettable with the rustic elegance and lasting impression of a beautiful barn wedding in a country setting at the Bridgeton 1878 Barn.

Family’s Battle to Save a Historic Treasure

“14 Miracles - A Family’s Battle to 
Save a Historic Treasure”

You have heard the phrase “If only these walls could talk?” Well, with a slight twist, a new book titled “14 Miracles - A Family’s Battle to Save a Historic Treasure” could answer that very question about the old Bridgeton Mill.

“14 Miracles - A Family’s Battle to Save a Historic Treasure” tells the story of Mike and Karen Jean who purchased an old rundown building that stood in the creek with a covered bridge next to it. Under the bridge was the decayed ruins of an old dam. Mike realized this had been a mill dam and it created water power for the building. It was an historic treasure!

Ski’s Truck & RV Sales at Rockville

Visit Ski’s Truck & RV Sales at our new location, just west of Raccoon Lake, at 9272 E. U.S. Highway 36, Rockville, IN 47872. We have a wide selection of pre-owned vehicles for sale, including 4x4 trucks, SUVs, vans and cars, in just about every price range.

The Red Raccoon, A Unique Retail Store

The Red Raccoon is a unique, one of a kind retail store with TWO brick & mortar locations, plus a mobile boutique! Our main location is located on US HWY 36, just east of Raccoon Lake SRA, with our second location, Rubies, being located on the North side of the courthouse square in Rockville. Our mobile boutique, is just that, mobile!

Ditzler Orchard at Cherrywood Farm

Ditzler Orchard has been family owned and operated since 1970. Here you can pick your own strawberries, cherries, blueberries and apples in season. Rather not pick them yourself? Then come shop our market! We’re open daily May through December, so stop in to see us!

Visit The Historic Mansfield Roller Mill

Since 1819, the Mansfield Roller Mill has graced the banks of Big Raccoon Creek in the village that would become Mansfield, Indiana. The Mill was built of logs and used glacial stones quarried nearby to grind corn and wheat.

Be sure to visit the historic Mansfield Roller Mill in Mansfield Village during the Covered Bridge Festival in October.

New Look at Fox’s Overlook in Mansfield

Fox’s Overlook has a new look and a new owner. Stop by and check out the Mansfield Village Bar & Grill where you can grab a beer and rest while others are enjoying the festival. On the second floor you will still find the homemade fudge ready for those with a sweet tooth and you’ll find lots of shopping from various vendors. The Covered Bridge Welcome Center with information and maps is also located on the second floor.

Fisher’s Discount, Bellmore Country Store

The Fisher family has operated a successful dairy farm in northeast Parke County since 1997. In 2011, Joseph and Salome Fisher opened a small discount grocery store in their garage, three miles west of Lake Waveland.

The local demand was so strong for discount groceries that they opened a new, larger store on a separate drive from the dairy barn. This new store featured an eight door cooler and four door freezer. The store became so popular that it was again expanded in 2018 with much more shelf space, a twelve door cooler, eight door freezer and an additional walk-in cooler.

Hills & Bridges - Cycling Parke County

Photo: Wes Kendall

There’s no better way to enjoy the scenic beauty of Parke County than from the seat of your own bicycle. Rolling hills, rippling streams and our famous Covered Bridges make this the ideal place to explore on a bicycle.

The 1883 Railroad Depot and Tourist Center, (three blocks east of the Rockville Square on Highway 36) is the perfect place to begin your tour.

Grandmas Lakeside Café - Open All Year

Grandma’s Lakeside Café is new to the area, located at the corner of Walker Ramp road and 10585 E US HWY 36. Look for their Red Wagon on top of the hill! You will want to visit this peaceful Cafe for great home cooked meals with a full menu. You will find daily lunch and dinner specials and you can dine in or call ahead for carry out. Grandma’s Lakeside Cafe also serves pizza and hot, toasted sandwiches.

Quality and Versatility at Midwest Window

Along the Parke County byways and highways you will find numerous wonderful Amish businesses. One of those is Midwest Windows located right off of Highway 36 just west of the SR 59 and SR 36 Junction. Dave Kanagy, owner of Midwest Windows, has been in business for 20 years, after first locating and establishing his business in Ferndale, Indiana. He then moved to the huge location right off of Highway 36.

Tiki Hut - More Than A Convenience Store

You will find the Tiki Hut in Southern Parke County to be much more than just a convenience store! Located next to Raccoon Lake, this family owned store is loaded with camping and boating equipment galore. You won’t want to miss out on all their T-Shirts, many with a local flare to them. Or, have your own design screenprinted! Don’t lose track of your tribe at the Covered Bridge Festival with matching T-shirts, or show your sports or school favorites! They also have many sweatshirts and koozies from which to choose.

14th Annual Miami Indian Gathering

The 14th Annual Miami Indian Gathering (powwow) will be held June 6th & 7th, 2020.

The Gathering is located at 11515 East U.S. 36, Parke County, Indiana, just three miles east of Raccoon Lake. Known for its naturally beautiful pastoral landscapes, lakes, and rivers; Parke County is the ideal location to celebrate our place in the natural world.

Raccoon Lakeside Lodge - Open All Year!

Need a fishing get-away? A vacation? A peaceful hideaway? You’ll find Raccoon Lakeside Lodge in Parke County a relaxing place with lakeside furnished apartments and suites, a fishing dock, water-skiing, hiking, Jacuzzis, swimming, beaching, grilling, porch swinging and more!

Raccoon State Recreation Area

Providing access to wildlife and a fun environment for the whole family, Raccoon Lake Recreation Area offers opportunities to find the perfect fishing spot, go boating, ski and swim. While hiking the five scenic trails, you’ll experience a wide assortment of habitats including mature hardwood forests, open meadows, a beautiful shoreline and many small ponds.

Indiana Zipline Tours, Near Crawfordsville

For a thrill of a lifetime stop by Indiana Zipline Tours, nestled among a canopy of trees just outside of Crawfordsville and just minutes away from Turkey Run and Shades State Parks. We are Indiana’s longest zipline! Designed and built with nature in mind you’ll fly like a bird over a mile of zipline cable, ranging from 150’ to 2000’ and with no towers to climb! Our zipline tours consist of 8 ziplines, one swinging bridge, a few scenic walks and Indiana’s only suspended platforms in the trees!

2020 Mansfield Village Mushroom Festival

Mushrooms!
        &
   Car Show!

April 25—26 2020 

There's fun for everyone in the family at the Mansfield Village Annual Mushroom Festival the weekend of April 25th, 2020.

Mushrooms will be sold throughout the day at the Mushroom Auction both Saturday and Sunday, with thousands of dollars changing hands from bidders and sellers from near and far. The Auction will be held at the Red barn.

Country Folks Farmers Market

There’s a certain feeling that our area brings out in a person, It stems from a laid back, take-it-easy lifestyle that can’t be found just anywhere. It’s a warm, cozy, country feeling and, believe it or not, you can buy bits and pieces of it at one of our popular roadside markets. Country Folks market offers everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to jams-jellies and Gray Brothers Pies.

HowellSlabJacking Lifting Settled Concrete

If your concrete is sinking, there’s a good possibility that it can be lifted for a fraction of the cost of replacement. SlabJacking is the process of lifting a driveway, patio, walkway or any other section of concrete by pumping material underneath.

MANSFIELD VILLAGE — GPS MAP Directions

We've had requests for GPS mappable addresses for those planning to visit Mansfield Village during the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival. Many Mansfield locations actually display as "Carbon" or "Rockville" addresses, although mansfield is about ten miles southeast of Rockville (as the crow flies). If your GPS won't accept "Mansfield Indiana" as a destination, try one of the following addresses. These should get you within a few blocks of the Mansfield Covered Bridge. These addresses also work within Google Maps. Click HERE to find Fox's Overlook in Mansfield Village. Click "Continue reading" for Addresses.

Video Walkthrough: Festival at Mansfield

Video Walkthrough of Mansfield, Indiana on Opening Day of the 2017 Parke County Covered Bridge Festival. — We enter from the southeast on South Martin Road, travel west through the historic Mansfield Covered Bridge into Mansfield Village and then north to the Mansfield Roller Mill. Next, we head northwest on E 621 S and turn south onto IN 59 before turning west toward Bridgeton, Indiana on East Mansfield Road.

[17 minutes]

Mansfield Memories Cookbook ($14.00)

Mansfield Recipes & Memories

A Treasury of Recipes and Mansfield history from Ernestine Harmless, Lundsford Family and Friends.

176 Pages and 244 Recipes.

Order Online!

      

Get your copy at Greencastle Offset Printing & Graphics, 20 South Jackson Street, Greencastle, IN 46135

$14.00 (plus shipping)
   

Click here to Order Online!

Preview this cookbook by clicking HERE

Post Card Scenes of Parke County ($8.00)

Get an assortment of Parke County Postcards in this package of 30 cards.  Most of these cards feature covered bridge scenes from Parke County Indiana.

While supplies last!

 
Click HERE to purchase online

View Sample Cards Below...

Click on any card below for a FULL SIZE view
                                 Photos © 1990-2007 Pat McCarter

The History of Mansfield Village ($6.00)

Thousands of visitors to Parke County's Covered Bridge Festival veer off of the planned tour route to see the old grist mill on the banks of Big Raccoon Creek in Mansfield. Preview this book by clicking HERE

$6.00 (plus shipping)

You can read all of this and a lot more in "Mansfield: It's More Than a Mill" available at Greencastle Offset Printing, Fox's Overlook in Mansfield, and online through the Parke County Guide STORE. 24 Pages plus cover.  Cover features color photos.  It'll be the best $6.00 you've ever spent! (plus Shipping)

Click here to Order Online!

Preview this book by clicking HERE

Parke County's Covered Bridges (VIDEO)

The "Covered Bridge Capital of the World" is Parke County, Indiana. There are 30 historic covered bridges in the county, which are on the National Register of Historic Places. Every October, there is a festival celebrating the covered bridges of Parke County, starting on the second weekend of the month. Autumn is an especially beautiful time to visit the Midwestern countryside. Fall colors decorate the trees and the weather is mild. The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival is regarded as one of the "Top Fall Festivals in North America" by the Society of American Travel Writers.

2010 Covered Bridge Festival VIDEO

Parke County Covered Bridge Festival at Mansfield Village