Indiana has set aside $25 million to rebuild the tornado-damaged campground at McCormick’s Creek State Park in Owen County, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
The State Budget Committee approved the funding package in September, with state and federal dollars allocated for the project.
The campground has been closed since March 31, 2023, when a tornado tore through the property and caused severe damage.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the EF-3 tornado struck at 11:01 p.m. with wind speeds of up to 140 mph. The storm cut a four-mile path across the park. The campground, located in the center of the tornado’s path, sustained the damage.
While most damaged sections of McCormick’s Creek have reopened, the campground remains closed. The campground previously offered 189 modern sites with electrical hookups and modern restrooms with showers, as well as 32 primitive campsites with pit toilets and no restrooms or showers
A park spokesperson told News 8 that the area is not in use while plans for rebuilding are being finalized.
According to information from the State Budget Committee, the project will involve a full reconstruction of all campground facilities, including buildings, utilities, campsites, roads, and recreational structures.
When complete, the new design will include 190 campsites, a campground gatehouse, three playgrounds, and additional visitor facilities.
The goal is to restore camping opportunities while updating the layout and infrastructure.
Of the total project funding, $18.8 million will come from the state and $6.2 million from the federal government. The combined funding is intended to cover the full scope of replacement and modernization.
Located northeast of Spencer, a community of about 2,500 residents, the park is approximately a 70-minute drive southwest of Indianapolis.
Its proximity to the metro area has made it a popular option for regional recreation and weekend getaways.