The first parcel of Turkey Run State Park's 2,382 acres was purchased during the State's centennial in 1916 when the State Park system was first established. Turkey Run is Indiana's second state park. There are many stories about how Turkey Run State Park got its name. Pioneer hunters would herd the turkeys through these natural funnels into a central location for an easy harvest.
Historic accounts do suggest that a large number of turkeys once inhabited the area.
Facilities are well kept. Also featured is the Lusk Home , built in 1841 by the Lusks, who owned the property at the time. Just up the road lies the Shades State Park, which is the origin of many canoe, raft and tube trips which pass through Turkey Run.