LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Vermillion Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Vermillion Falls
Vermillion Falls is a picturesque waterfall in Indiana tucked into a small creek valley and framed by lush, wooded banks—an appealing stop for photographers and anyone looking for a peaceful, natural outing. The falls themselves are modest but photogenic, with the surrounding greenery creating pleasant reflections and seasonal color through spring and fall. Visitors often enjoy the quiet setting and the sense of being away from busier park areas. If you plan to make a day of it, note that the nearest campground is Raccoon State Recreation Area, about 14.8 km (roughly 9.2 miles) from the falls, so overnight options require a short drive. Bring good shoes and camera gear—this is a relaxed, rewarding destination for a half-day hike and creekside exploration.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The path can include uneven footing and natural tread; hikers should expect typical woodland trail conditions and wear sturdy footwear. No USFS trail name or number is provided for this route in the available data, so plan using the listed distance, gain, and moderate difficulty when preparing for the hike.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by forested areas. The falls may be more impressive during or after rainfall.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Vermillion Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Vermillion Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is higher due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and uneven terrain. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become muddy or hazardous after rain.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Big Raccoon Creek, 8.1 miles away, not on Vermillion Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
19 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
2.09 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BIG RACCOON CREEK NEAR FINCASTLE, IN (13 km away).
Today
Moderate
19 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
24 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
26 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
27 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
21 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
27 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
28 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to late April, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Van Bibber Lake hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Vermillion Falls Frozen?
Updated about 23 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Vermillion Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 44°F to 34°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 19 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Indiana.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 58 feet through Vermillion Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 808 feet.
The ground changes about 41 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 38 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 808 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 58 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Vermillion Falls is located in Vermillion County, Indiana. Access to the falls may require navigating local roads and potentially a short hike, depending on the specific route taken.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated areas if available.
Hours
Elevation
807 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.700944° N, -86.907084° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check local conditions before visiting, as access may vary depending on weather and trail maintenance. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes.
Where to Stay
Terre Haute Casino Resort
Sleep Inn Terre Haute University Area
Inn at DePauw
Comfort Suites Terre Haute University Area
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Raccoon State Recreation Area
9.2 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Cecil M. Harden Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other natural areas and small towns in Vermillion County, Indiana.
Wildlife
The area may feature local wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Vermillion Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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