Unplug and Chill: Indiana's Hidden Picnic Gems

In the heartland of America lies a state that is often overlooked, but those in the know understand its true allure. Indiana, with its historic charm and welcoming nature, offers an abundance of hidden picnic spots where one can unplug, decompress, and simply chill. So pack your wicker basket and blanket as we embark on a journey to discover some of the best places to spend a lazy afternoon eating, drinking, napping, and immersing ourselves in all that this great state has to offer.

Our first stop takes us to Brown County State Park (1810 State Road 46 East Nashville), nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana. This picturesque park offers endless opportunities for picnicking amidst lush greenery and scenic vistas. Set up camp near Ogle Lake or find a cozy spot by Strahl Lake both serene locations that will transport you into a world of tranquility. As you savor your homemade sandwiches and local delights from nearby markets like Hobnob Corner Restaurant & Bakery (17 W Main St., Nashville), take in the sights around you; perhaps even channel John Mellencamp as you appreciate "Small Town" life at its finest.

For those seeking something offbeat yet charmingly authentic, head northwest towards Bloomington where we find Oliver Winery (200 E Winery Rd., Bloomington). Amidst rows of grapevines stretching out towards the horizon lies an idyllic setting for an unforgettable picnic experience. Choose from their selection of award-winning wines - be sure not to miss their signature Camelot Mead then settle down under towering oak trees while indulging in locally sourced cheeses from The Bloomingfoods Co-op Market (419 E Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington).

Continuing our voyage through undiscovered corners of Indiana brings us eastward to Pokagon State Park (450 Lane 100 Lake James, Angola). This hidden gem near the Michigan border offers a unique picnic opportunity on its own private beach. Sink your toes into the soft sand as you savor delicious treats from nearby Riegsecker Marketplace (255 E North Village Dr., Shipshewana), known for their delectable Amish baked goods. Embrace the serenity of Lake James while contemplating Kurt Vonnegut's words: "All moments, past and future, always have existed, always will exist."

Venturing further north to Indiana Dunes National Park (1215 N State Road 49 Porter) presents us with an awe-inspiring backdrop that combines pristine beaches and towering sand dunes. Find solace in nature's embrace as you create lasting memories over a delightful picnic spread. Grab some scrumptious sandwiches from Chesterton Sandwich Shoppe & Bakery (107 S Calumet Rd., Chesterton) before embarking on a hike along the shores of Lake Michigan.

To conclude our journey through Indiana's enchanting picnic spots, we head west to Turkey Run State Park (8121 E Park Rd., Marshall). Known for its stunning sandstone gorges and scenic trails, this park provides ample opportunities to escape from it all. Choose a spot by Sugar Creek and bask in the tranquility while enjoying homemade pies from Rockville General Store (304 Howard Ave., Rockville).

So there you have it - an exploration of comfortable corners within Indiana where one can unplug, decompress, relax...and chill. Let these hidden picnic gems transport you into a state of blissful contentment as only Indiana can.

Websites:

- Brown County State Park: www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2989.htm

- Hobnob Corner Restaurant & Bakery: www.hobnobcornerrestaurant.com

- Oliver Winery: www.oliverwinery.com

- The Bloomingfoods Co-op Market: www.bloomingfoods.coop

- Pokagon State Park: www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2973.htm

- Riegsecker Marketplace: www.riegseckers.com

- Indiana Dunes National Park: www.nps.gov/indu/index.htm

- Chesterton Sandwich Shoppe & Bakery: www.chestertonsandwichshoppe.com

- Turkey Run State Park: www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2964.htm

- Rockville General Store: No official website, but find them on Facebook at "Rockville General Store"