Tucked into the limestone gorges and thick forests of southern Indiana lies a stretch of land that doesn’t raise its voice. The Hemlock Cliffs region—named for the stands of Canadian hemlocks clinging to sandstone ledges—doesn’t rush you, either. It’s not the Indiana most people picture. That’s precisely the point.
Here, past Patoka Lake and down roads that turn to gravel without warning, you’ll find places like Celestine and Eckerty, where the closest thing to traffic is a tractor. The towns are small. The trees are tall. The quiet isn’t performative—it’s practical. These are places built on timber, limestone, and habit, and they’ve kept their distance from big-city sprawl without apology.
This isn’t seclusion for spectacle’s sake. It’s where space is not just respected, it’s required. In towns like Siberia, Magnet, and Leopold, solitude is stitched into the terrain, buffered by Hoosier National Forest and shaped by rivers that have outlasted industries.
If you’re seeking 10 towns that didn’t ask to be found—just to be left alone in peace—you’ve come to the right cliffs.
10. The Secluded Enclave of Celestine
Celestine, with an approximate population of just over 250 residents, is a quiet area characterized by rolling hills and vast stretches of farmland. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby Patoka Lake, one of Indiana’s largest reservoirs.
Agriculture is the main industry here, with family-owned farms dotting the landscape and contributing to the town’s rural charm. What makes Celestine particularly secluded is its low population density and the expansive spaces between properties, offering residents plenty of privacy and a peaceful countryside retreat.
Where is Celestine?
Located in Dubois County in southern Indiana, Celestine is tucked away northeast of Jasper, surrounded by lush forests and gentle rolling hills. Its seclusion is enhanced by its distance from major highways and urban centers, making it a quiet haven away from the hustle and bustle.
To get there, travelers can take State Road 164 east from Jasper, winding through scenic landscapes before arriving in this tranquil enclave. The remote setting provides a sense of escape and immersion in the natural beauty of the Hemlock Cliffs region.
9. Eckerty’s Countryside Escape
Eckerty is a rural community with an estimated population of around 100 residents, offering a peaceful lifestyle amidst Indiana’s serene countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Hoosier National Forest, enjoy boating and fishing on Patoka Lake, or hike the trails of the Hemlock Cliffs.
The primary industries include agriculture and small local businesses that cater to the needs of the community. Eckerty’s seclusion stems from its large land parcels and natural barriers, providing residents with ample space and privacy nestled within the expansive woodland areas.
Where is Eckerty?
Situated in Crawford County, Eckerty lies just off State Road 64, west of English. Its location amidst dense forests and its distance from larger towns contribute to its quiet ambiance. The town is accessible via winding country roads that meander through the scenic Hoosier National Forest, enhancing the feeling of remoteness.
Visitors seeking a countryside escape can reach Eckerty by driving west from Louisville, Kentucky, or east from Evansville, Indiana, enjoying the peaceful journey through Indiana’s picturesque landscapes.
8. Milltown’s Natural Retreat
With a population of approximately 800 people, Milltown offers a small-town charm that’s deeply connected to nature. The town sits along the banks of the Blue River, making it a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Local industries revolve around outdoor recreation and small enterprises that serve both residents and visitors. Milltown’s seclusion is attributed to its surrounding dense forests and its position away from major urban areas, creating a tranquil atmosphere ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in natural beauty.
Where is Milltown?
Located at the intersection of Crawford and Harrison counties, Milltown is nestled in southern Indiana’s hilly terrain. Its secluded nature is due in part to the encompassing woodlands of the Hoosier National Forest and the meandering Blue River.
To get to Milltown, travelers can take State Road 66 south from Interstate 64, enjoying a scenic drive through rolling hills and forested areas. The town’s remote location provides a serene retreat and a gateway to the outdoor adventures of the Hemlock Cliffs region.
7. Peaceful Living in Siberia
Siberia is an unincorporated area with a sparse population, offering an untouched landscape that’s perfect for those seeking solitude. Outdoor activities dominate the area, with nearby hiking trails, wildlife watching, and the scenic beauty of the Hemlock Cliffs attracting nature lovers.
There are few industries, maintaining the area’s pristine condition, and most residents are involved in agriculture or commute to neighboring towns for work. Siberia’s low-traffic environment and lack of commercial development make it one of the most secluded spots in the region.
Where is Siberia?
Siberia is located in Perry County, deep within southern Indiana’s rural expanse. Its remoteness is magnified by its position away from major roads and its surrounding national forests.
Access to Siberia is primarily via small county roads, enhancing the feeling of entering a hidden part of the state. The area’s isolation offers residents and visitors a peaceful environment far removed from the noise and stresses of city life, making it an ideal place for a quiet getaway.
6. Magnet: A Secluded Gem
Magnet is a tiny riverside community with a population of fewer than 100 people, offering expansive natural surroundings and a serene atmosphere. Situated along the Ohio River, residents enjoy fishing, boating, and absorbing the tranquil river views.
There are minimal industries, with a focus on agriculture and tourism related to the river and nearby natural attractions. Magnet’s low population density and limited development contribute to its status as a secluded gem, providing a quiet lifestyle immersed in nature.
Where is Magnet?
Located in Perry County, Magnet sits along a remote stretch of the Ohio River, enhancing its sense of isolation. The town is accessible via winding river roads that offer stunning views but see little traffic.
To reach Magnet, travelers can take State Road 66 east from Tell City, journeying through forested landscapes before arriving at this hidden riverside retreat. The town’s out-of-the-way location makes it a perfect spot for those seeking peace and an intimate connection with the river environment.
5. The Quiet Charm of English
English is a small town with around 600 residents, enveloped by natural beauty and offering a serene environment away from urban hustle. Recreational activities include exploring the nearby Hemlock Cliffs, hiking in the Hoosier National Forest, and visiting local historical sites.
The town’s economy is modest, centered on local services, small businesses, and tourism. English’s seclusion is attributed to its location amid vast forests and its spacious properties, giving residents a peaceful setting with plenty of room to breathe.
Where is English?
Situated in Crawford County, English is nestled along State Road 37, surrounded by the lush greenery of southern Indiana. Its secluded nature comes from its distance from major cities and the encompassing natural landscapes that buffer it from outside noise.
Travelers can reach English by heading south from Bloomington or north from Tell City, enjoying scenic drives through rolling hills and wooded areas. The town’s remote setting offers a quiet retreat and a chance to experience the charm of small-town Indiana.
4. Derby’s Riverside Solitude
Derby is a peaceful riverside enclave with a population of approximately 300 people, offering serene views of the Ohio River and a tranquil lifestyle. Activities in Derby revolve around the river, including boating, fishing, and enjoying the scenic riverfront parks.
There are minimal industries, preserving the town’s quiet atmosphere, with some residents involved in tourism and hospitality. Derby’s seclusion is enhanced by its limited development and natural barriers, providing an ultimate getaway for those seeking solitude along the water.
Where is Derby?
Located in Perry County, Derby sits along the northern bank of the Ohio River, nestled within Indiana’s southern hills. Its remote location is accentuated by the winding roads and forested areas that surround it, keeping it tucked away from the main thorough fares.
To get to Derby, visitors can take State Road 70 east from Tell City, enjoying a scenic drive through the countryside. The town’s riverside position and isolation make it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those longing for quietude.
3. The Quaint Village of Leopold
Leopold is a small rural community with an estimated population of around 75 residents, offering a peaceful haven amidst lush landscapes. The town is known for its rich Belgian heritage, with St. Augustine Church being a notable landmark.
Outdoor activities include hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the serene countryside. Agriculture is the main industry, with family farms contributing to the local economy. Leopold’s seclusion is due to its large acreages and the vast natural surroundings that create a tranquil environment perfect for those seeking tranquility.
Where is Leopold?
Nestled in Perry County, Leopold is situated southeast of Interstate 64, accessible via State Road 66. Its secluded nature is a result of its distance from urban centers and the dense forests that envelop the area.
Travelers can reach Leopold by taking rural routes that wind through rolling hills and farmland, enhancing the feeling of entering a hidden gem. The town’s remote location and rich natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a peaceful countryside experience.
2. Serenity in Sulphur
Sulphur is a quiet town with a population of just over 100 residents, surrounded by dense woodlands and natural barriers. The area offers an intimate connection to nature, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the nearby Hemlock Cliffs.
The main industries include agriculture and small-scale forestry, reflecting the town’s deep roots in the natural environment. Sulphur’s seclusion is heightened by its minimal commercial development and the enveloping forests that provide residents with unparalleled privacy and serenity.
Where is Sulphur?
Located in Crawford County, Sulphur lies south of English, accessible via State Road 37 and County Road 237. The town’s secluded atmosphere is a result of its setting amidst the expansive Hoosier National Forest and the lack of major highways nearby.
To get there, visitors can enjoy a scenic drive through forested backroads, further enhancing the sense of seclusion. Sulphur’s remote location offers a peaceful escape for those looking to immerse themselves in Indiana’s natural beauty.
1. The Hidden Hamlet of Taswell
Taswell is a secluded community with an approximate population of around 200 residents, nestled near the Hemlock Cliffs. The town is surrounded by expansive forests and rolling hills, providing a peaceful retreat far from urban life. Activities include hiking the trails of the Hoosier National Forest, fishing in the nearby Patoka Lake, and exploring the natural wonders of the Hemlock Cliffs.
The main industries are centered around agriculture and outdoor recreation, supporting a lifestyle that is closely connected to the land. Taswell’s seclusion is underscored by its remote location and the vast natural landscapes that separate it from larger towns.
Where is Taswell?
Situated in Crawford County, Taswell is located off State Road 64, east of Eckerty. Its hidden nature comes from the surrounding dense forests and its position away from major transportation routes. To reach Taswell, travelers can take State Road 64, enjoying scenic views of southern Indiana’s rolling terrain.
The town’s seclusion provides residents and visitors with a sense of escape and a close connection to the tranquility of the Hemlock Cliffs region, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
