Indiana State Maps

These maps show Indiana States Counties, Cities, Federal Areas, Physiographic, and Ecoregion's.

Indiana State County Sizes Map

Smallest County in Indiana State

Ohio County: 87 sq miles

Largest County in Indiana State

Allen County: 658 sq miles

Mean and Median Area of Counties in Indiana State

Mean Area: 397.65 sq miles

Median Area: 406.00 sq miles

Major Cities of Indiana State and Their Locations

In Indiana State, most major cities are located near rivers, transport hubs, or strategic economic centers. Below are examples of each:

1. Cities Along the Ohio River

Evansville: A major city in southern Indiana, Evansville is located on the Ohio River, facilitating trade and commerce with neighboring states like Kentucky.

New Albany: Situated just across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky, New Albany plays an important role in regional trade and is known for its manufacturing and commercial activities.

Jeffersonville: Another Ohio River city, Jeffersonville has grown as a suburban extension of Louisville and plays a key role in transportation and industry.

2. Cities Along Key Transportation Routes

Indianapolis: As the state capital, Indianapolis is centrally located, serving as a major transportation hub with rail, air, and road networks that connect the Midwest.

Fort Wayne: Located in northeastern Indiana, Fort Wayne is a major city that grew along the confluence of three rivers and became an important transportation and manufacturing center in the state.

South Bend: South Bend lies near the Michigan border and is home to the University of Notre Dame. The city developed as an industrial hub, particularly in the automotive industry.

Gary: Located on the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Gary is known for its steel industry and proximity to the major transportation routes leading to Chicago.

3. Cities Near Strategic Economic Centers

Bloomington: Home to Indiana University, Bloomington is a major educational and cultural center in southern Indiana, with a thriving local economy driven by education, healthcare, and technology sectors.

Lafayette: Located along the Wabash River, Lafayette is closely tied to Purdue University in nearby West Lafayette. The city is a regional hub for education, manufacturing, and agriculture.

Muncie: Once an industrial powerhouse, Muncie has evolved into an educational and healthcare center, largely thanks to Ball State University and its contributions to the local economy.

Terre Haute: Located along the Wabash River, Terre Haute has a long history as an industrial and transportation center and is now home to Indiana State University, contributing to its educational and cultural influence.

Columbus: Known for its modern architecture and engineering industry, Columbus is a city that combines economic strength with cultural assets, particularly in automotive manufacturing.

Topographic Tour of Indiana

Indiana features a diverse range of landscapes, shaped by its geology and natural features. From rolling plains to low hills, the state offers a variety of terrains.

1. Central Lowlands

The central part of Indiana features rolling plains and fertile farmlands that support large-scale agriculture. This area is the heart of Indiana’s economy, thanks to its rich soils and mild climate.

2. Southern Hills and Lowlands

The southern portion of Indiana includes hills and ridges formed by ancient river systems. This region has more varied topography compared to the central and northern parts, with valleys, caves, and karst formations.

3. Ohio River Valley

Along the Ohio River in southern Indiana, the terrain becomes more rugged, with steep slopes and valleys. This area is historically important for trade and transportation.

Physiographic Regions of Indiana State

Central Lowland, Eastern Lake

This region includes the low plains near Lake Michigan, providing rich soils for agriculture and important waterways.

Central Lowland, Till Plains

The Till Plains region features flat to gently rolling land, which was formed by glacial deposits. The area supports extensive farming.

Interior Low Plateaus, Highland Rim

The Highland Rim region in southern Indiana is characterized by hills and valleys, with a mixture of farmland, forests, and small streams.

Interior Low Plateaus, Lexington Plain

The Lexington Plain is a lowland area known for its fertile soil and agricultural productivity. It includes a network of rivers and creeks that drain into the Ohio River.

Notable Federal Lands: Some of the Largest and Most Fascinating Destinations in Indiana

1. Hoosier National Forest

Located in southern Indiana, the Hoosier National Forest spans over 200,000 acres and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and horseback riding. The forest features rolling hills, caves, and diverse wildlife habitats.

2. Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park is located along Lake Michigan's southern shore and protects a unique ecosystem of sand dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. The park is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and beachgoers.

Ecoregions of Indiana

Central Loess Plains Section

This ecoregion features gently rolling plains covered with loess deposits, supporting a mixture of croplands and woodlands.

Central Till Plains, Beech-Maple Section

The Beech-Maple Section is characterized by hardwood forests, dominated by beech and maple trees. It includes some of the most fertile agricultural land in the state.

Central Till Plains, Oak-Hickory Section

This ecoregion features oak and hickory-dominated forests, along with patches of farmland. It supports diverse wildlife and a variety of tree species.

Erie and Ontario Lake Plain Section

Located near Lake Michigan, this region features sandy soils and supports a variety of plant communities, including dunes and wetlands.

Interior Low Plateau, Bluegrass Section

The Bluegrass Section of the Interior Low Plateau is a limestone plain characterized by sinkholes, caves, and rolling hills. It is known for its rich biodiversity and karst features.

Interior Low Plateau, Highland Rim Section

The Highland Rim Section features ridges and rolling hills, with a mixture of farmland, forest, and grasslands. It is a prominent agricultural region.

Interior Low Plateau, Shawnee Hills Section

The Shawnee Hills Section is marked by rugged terrain with steep slopes, rocky outcrops, and extensive forests. This region offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.

South Central Great Lakes Section

The South Central Great Lakes Section covers the southern shores of Lake Michigan and supports a unique mix of wetland, forest, and prairie ecosystems.

Southwestern Great Lakes Morainal Section

This section includes moraines left by retreating glaciers, creating a diverse landscape of rolling hills, wetlands, and forests. It is known for its rich soil and agricultural productivity.