About Indiana State Sanatorium
The Indiana State Sanatorium in Rockville, Indiana, is a sprawling historic complex originally built as Indiana’s main tuberculosis hospital in the early 1900s . It sits on over 200 acres and includes dozens of buildings (former TB wards, a nursing home wing, psychiatric wards, support shops and a coal-power plant), totaling well over 120,000 square feet . The site was self-sustaining: doctors and nurses actually lived on the grounds, and it even had a dairy, greenhouse and other farms . Patients and staff used a private covered bridge (built in 1913) to haul coal across Little Raccoon Creek . After successful TB treatment and advances in medicine there was no longer a need for such a facility, so it closed as a sanatorium in 1968 (reopened briefly in 1976 as a nursing home and psychiatric center, then shut down for good in 2011) . Today it is privately owned and run as a specialty event venue focused on paranormal tours and historical exploration. Its mix of vintage architecture and wilderness setting gives it a one-of-a-kind character that draws both history buffs and ghost-hunting enthusiasts.
Events and Programming
Daily Tours: The Sanatorium is open for self-guided daytime visits almost every day from around 10am to 5pm . Visitors can roam through the old hospital halls, refreshments lobby and even parts of the old nurse’s quarters at their own pace. The basic daytime tour is just walking around on marked routes (for example, a recent article noted that visitors could “roam free daily” for $25 per person) .Paranormal Hunts: Nighttime ghost-hunting events run regularly, especially in spring and fall. Organized groups like Haunted Nights and Eerie Excursions hold overnight investigations here. For example, a Haunted Nights event on May 24–25, 2025, offered an 8pm–4am paranormal investigation of three buildings and the steam tunnels . The Sanatorium also offers private “investigation” packages (up to 10 guests) for $700–$1,000 (weekdays vs weekends) with exclusive access after hours . One notable one-night “flashlight tour” in April 2022 ran 5 hours (7pm–12am) for $40 per person, with a 16+ age requirement .Conventions & Festivals: The venue hosts special multi-day events. In summer 2023 and 2024 it ran “ISS Con” paranormal conventions (mid-August), featuring tours, ghost hunts and guest speakers. For the 2024 event they even used nearby Billie Creek Village for daytime activities ($20 admission plus free entry for ticket-holders) . Locals also tie tours into Parke County’s famous Covered Bridge Festival in October – the owners have noted that they expect to welcome festival campers and merchants on-site, and they schedule special day and flashlight tours during the festival . Beyond spooky events, the owners envision all kinds of uses: everything from music nights to mountain-bike races, destination weddings, camping, and equine competitions .
Tickets and Booking
Standard day-tour tickets can be bought online through the Sanatorium’s site or in person at the gate house . Prices are very reasonable (currently about $25 per person for daytime roaming) . For full details and schedules, check the official booking page. Special events require separate tickets: for example, the April 2022 flashlight tour was $40 at the door . Advanced reservation is highly recommended, especially for popular events, since tours and hunts often sell out. Many paranormal events also sell tickets via affiliated organizers or social media pages. Private overnight hunts (limited groups, typically up to 10 people) run about $700 on a weekday and $1,000 on a weekend . Keep in mind that larger conventions and hunts may have tiered pricing or child discounts (a recent con charged $20/person for day access with kids under 10 admitted free ). Always confirm refund or rain-check policies on the event information, as weather or other changes can affect schedules.
Seating and Layout
The Sanatorium has no fixed seating areas or concert stage – it’s an open complex of old buildings. Tours are entirely “walking tours,” not performances. Visitors move through wide hallways, day rooms, staircases and wards at will. Because the buildings have no lights at night except flashlights, imagine a very large living museum rather than a theater. The layout is multi-level: several wings of the hospital are two or three stories tall. There are also miles of steam-heating tunnels under the floors. Acoustics-wise, empty concrete corridors echo easily, and any held events rely on portable lighting and PA systems provided by the organizers. In practice, people say the best “views” depend on your goal – photographers love the grand entry staircase and afternoon light in the old nurse’s lounge, while ghost investigators often hang out in quieter corners or basement areas. If you visit, standing and walking are the primary way to experience the site – there are no auditorium chairs, VIP booths or standing-room sections, just the open atmosphere of a deserted hospital.
Getting There and Parking
The Sanatorium sits at 3838 East Old State Road 36, Rockville, IN . This is about 3 miles east of Rockville’s tiny downtown along U.S. 36 (Main Street). To reach it, take Interstate 70 to the Rockville exit (Ind. 59) and head into town, then east on State Road 36 past Rockville. The area is rural, so riding or walking long distances is not practical. The nearest large cities are Terre Haute (about 25 miles west via I-70) and Indianapolis (roughly 75 miles east via I-74/I-70). There is no public bus or train to the site – driving is by far the easiest option. Amtrak’s closest stop is in Crawfordsville, about 45 minutes away. On arrival, you’ll find plenty of free parking on-site. Vehicles can park in the lots around the main buildings and along the access road. If using a rideshare or taxi, have them drop you at the main entrance (look for a Sanatorium sign) and pick up there later. Keep in mind the roads are narrow county roads; avoid large buses unless authorized. The site is well-signposted as visitor parking, so simply follow the marked driveways. (Just note: at night, the remote location means lighting is minimal – plan ahead for safe driving on these country roads.)
Inside the Venue
Once you arrive and check in, you’ll explore the old hospital buildings at your own risk. Expect squeezed elevator shafts, dim corners and lots of echo. The original equipment and furniture mostly remain – as one travel report put it, the sanatorium is a true “time capsule” complete with dusty hospital beds, wheelchairs and lamps . During day tours, many areas are safely accessible, but after dark it’s very creepy (staff generally recommend flashlights and close footwear). There are virtually no amenities in the historic wings: no concession stands, no gift shops, and no Wi-Fi or cell signal inside. For overnight events, organizers often open a “common room” in one building (currently set up in an old superintendent’s residence) with running water, a kitchenette and restrooms . Otherwise, restrooms in this area are limited – visitors should use facilities on the way in or be prepared. You can bring your own snacks and water (and even a picnic), but you’ll eat outdoors or in the common area, not in a restaurant. Note that guided tours sometimes prohibit “wired” electronics: for example, a Facebook event page warned no wired video systems would be allowed , meaning battery-powered cameras and equipment only. On the plus side, photography is generally allowed and even welcomed – the owners explicitly encourage guests to take photos around the grounds (and even to go truffle or mushroom foraging on the land) . Leashed pets are also permitted outdoors (an unusual perk noted on the official site) , but be sure to keep them quiet as they explore any old buildings.
Nearby Amenities
The immediate area has only a few eateries and lodging options. In Rockville itself (2–3 miles west) you’ll find some casual American diners and bars. A popular spot is the Thirty-Six Saloon (108 E. Ohio St), a rustic country-style bar & grill with daily specials, a game room (pool tables, darts) and awards decorating the walls . For coffee or quick breakfast/lunch, try Bloom & Birdie Coffeehouse (in the Kirby Foods plaza, 1330 N. Lincoln Rd) or the 1880 Mustard Seed cafe in town square—it serves craft coffee, baked goods and light fare with a local vibe . The nearest full-service restaurants or fast-food chains are a short drive away in Covington or Terre Haute. If you need groceries or fuel, there is a convenience store at Rockville’s edge by IN-36. As for lodging, there are very few motels in tiny Rockville. Some visitors stay in the historic cabins and cottages at Billie Creek Village Park (7 minutes away) or camp in Parke County parks. Otherwise the closest motels are in Terre Haute or Crawfordsville (25–40 miles by car). It’s wise to book accommodations in advance, especially during busy seasons like the Covered Bridge Festival. Finally, keep in mind that Rockville is a small town: shops and diners often close by 8pm, and late-night options are very limited. If you have an early morning or late evening tour, plan accordingly (maybe bring snacks or plan to stay nearby).
What Makes This Venue Special
Indiana State Sanatorium’s one-of-a-kind character comes from its rich history and eerie charm. Architecturally, it was a full self-contained early-20th-century campus: original constructions include long rows of patient wards, a grand multi-level administration wing, and even support buildings (a power plant and water tower are still visible) . Its remote ridge-top setting adds drama – as the owner quipped, the site is “one part nature preserve, one part historic buildings and one part zombie apocalypse” due to the forested bluffs and abandoned structures . In fact, the adjacent sandstone cliffs rival those of nearby Turkey Run State Park, giving hikers scenic overlook spots. The property’s own covered bridge (over Little Raccoon Creek) and lingering farm infrastructure connect it deeply to Parke County’s heritage . Culturally, it has become a magnet for both tourists and locals. Tens of thousands have come for ghost hunts, photography tours and Halloween specials. It’s one of Indiana’s most-talked-about haunted sites – featured in paranormal TV shows and travel blogs – and even the annual Covered Bridge Festival now includes on-site tours, drawing extra interest to this “eerie treasure” . Organizers have big plans to boost the local economy: they explicitly aim to host everything from wedding receptions to cycling races here . The mix of true historical legacy and spine-tingling rumors (disembodied voices and shadowy apparitions are frequently reported ) makes the Sanatorium uniquely fascinating to both history buffs and adventure seekers.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan ahead: Tours usually fill the 10am–5pm daytime window each day, but special events have different start times (check the calendar). Arrive early to sign in, load up on insect repellent for outdoor areas, and park before your tour time.
Dress and gear: Wear sturdy shoes and warm layers (indoor hallways can be cool). Always bring your own flashlight or headlamp for any tour – there is no building power or lighting in the old wings. The Sanatorium is an old building, so watch your step; some floors are weak or uneven.
Health & safety: This is not a fully renovated site: some ceilings and walls may show decay. Never touch railings or walls you see warning tags on. Visitors with mobility issues should note that there are many stairs and no elevators, so wheelchair access is very limited. If you have respiratory issues, dust can sometimes be a concern in unventilated rooms.
Entry rules: Follow all staff instructions. You may be asked to sign a liability waiver before touring. Do not wander alone at night – the owners explicitly warn against trespassing. As their own policy states, if the gate is open during the day you may drive around but you must stay in your vehicle and not enter any building . At night, any unbooked entry triggers immediate law-enforcement response . Keep roadways clear and do not block the entrance gate; traffic on the access road should move slowly.
Children and pets: Children are welcome for most day tours under adult supervision, but note that some special hunts have age limits (for example, a recent after-dark flashlight tour required everyone to be at least 16 years old ). If bringing kids, always accompany them in dim areas. Leashed dogs are actually allowed in outdoor areas – the owners promote pet-friendly exploration – but keep pets quiet and never let them enter dark buildings.
Food and amenities: There is no on-site cafeteria or bar. Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are fine; you may want to bring snacks or water for longer events. (Overnight investigators are asked to bring bedding and personal supplies.) During some late-night events, the staff may provide a simple break room with coffee and cookies, but don’t count on full meals being available. The summer parking lot can get muddy after rain – consider bringing a towel to clean mud off shoes.
Photography and equipment: Photography is generally allowed and even encouraged (the grounds are very photogenic) . You may bring your own camera, tripod, or even inexpensive paranormal tech (EMF meters, voice recorders, etc.). Just note that many organized hunts ban “wired” multi-camera rigs , so anything that plugs in should be voice-activated or battery-powered. If you’re attending a private investigation or con, they often supply some basic gear to share, but it’s safest to bring your own working lights and batteries. Also, keep extra batteries and memory cards handy – there’s no place to buy gear on site.
Weather: Almost all of the Sanatorium is indoors or under cover, but dress for local weather if you plan to walk the grounds. Even in rain the interior tours usually proceed as planned. In winter, the off-road drive to the site may be slippery; chains or 4WD are a good idea if snow is forecast. (It’s also closed on Christmas Day each year, so check holiday schedules.)
What is the address of the Indiana State Sanatorium?
The sanatorium is at 3838 East Old State Road 36, Rockville, IN 47872 . This puts it about 3 miles east of downtown Rockville, along the east–west route of U.S. 36. It’s well-marked by signs. Plug the address into your GPS; if you head into Rockville from I-70 (Exit 52/US 36) and then go east, you’ll reach it quickly.
How much do tours cost and where can I buy tickets?
Daytime roaming tours typically cost around $25 per person . This includes self-guided entry to the site during open hours. You can purchase daily-tour tickets online through the official website or (when staff are present) in person at the Sanatorium office. Special event tickets (night hunts, flashlight tours, conventions) are sold separately. For example, a recent flashlight tour was $40 on the door . We strongly recommend buying online ahead of time, as popular nights and conventions often sell out.
What are the opening hours for tours?
According to the official website, the Sanatorium is generally open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm for self-guided tours . (Currently it operates every day except Christmas Day.) Specialized events have different hours – for instance, evening flashlight tours might start after dark and run for several hours. Always check the schedule online before you go, because hours can vary for holidays or private events.
Is there parking at the venue and is it free?
Yes – there is an on-site parking area and it is free for visitors. You can park next to the old hospital complex on the designated lots. Since the grounds are large and mostly level, you’ll usually find plenty of space. If you arrive during a big event, staff will direct traffic into overflow areas. Just be sure to park in marked spaces and don’t block any roads or gates.
Is the Sanatorium wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, accessibility is very limited. The historic buildings have many stairs and uneven floors, and there are no ramps or elevators in the old wings. Anyone using a wheelchair or scooter would have difficulty exploring much of the interior. The main lobby area may have some flat access, but most corridors do not. Visitors with mobility issues should be aware of this limitation; some paths around the outside of the main building may be accessible, but check in advance.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed during tours?
Photography and filming are generally allowed during tours, and guests are encouraged to take pictures . For ghost-hunting events, just note that any equipment must be battery-powered. One event page specifically warned that “no wired camera systems” would be permitted . In other words, bring your own flashlights, handheld cameras or digital recorders (with batteries) – just no tethered, plug-in setups. Also be respectful: don’t touch or move anything to get a shot. Overall, feel free to document your visit but carry extra batteries and cards since there’s no charging station on site.
Can I bring my children to the Sanatorium tours?
Children can participate, but age rules vary. Young kids are welcome on daytime self-guided tours (with a paying adult), though parents should gauge if the creepy atmosphere is suitable. For special ghost-hunting or overnight events, there is often a minimum age. For example, a 2022 after-dark flashlight tour required all attendees to be at least 16 years old . If you plan to bring children, check the event details for any age restrictions first. Always supervise youngsters closely in the dark areas.
Are pets allowed at the Sanatorium?
Yes – on-site rules actually say well-behaved pets on a short leash are permitted in outdoor areas . Dogs can accompany you on the grounds, but owners must keep them under control at all times. Pets are not allowed inside restricted buildings, both for their safety and to respect other visitors. If you do bring a pet, remember to clean up after it and don’t let it run loose. Note that this policy refers to normal daytime tours; any specific event (especially at night) may have its own pet rules, so double-check for those as well.
Are restrooms available on site?
Restroom facilities are very limited. The main tour office and overnight common area (in the commercial building) have basic restrooms available during organized events . However, during self-guided day tours the historic wings themselves have no public restrooms. It’s a good idea to use the bathroom before you arrive in Rockville. (Some water fountains may be active near the front office, but don’t count on more than that.) In short: plan ahead because you’ll mostly need to rely on facilities in town or the staff area for restrooms.
What should I bring with me for a visit?
Be prepared for a rustic, exploratory experience. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for climbing debris and stairs. Dress in layers – inside is dark and cool, regardless of outside weather. Bring a reliable flashlight or headlamp (fresh batteries) for viewing dim corners and tunnels. Pack bottled water and snacks if you might get hungry (especially for longer events; don’t expect on-site food). You may also want a notebook, camera, or any normal urban-exploration gear. Most importantly, bring patience and an adventurous spirit – cell reception is weak, so detach from your phone and focus on the site itself.
Is photography allowed? Can I use flash?
Yes, taking photos is allowed and often encouraged . Feel free to bring your camera or smartphone. You may use non-intrusive flash photography on daytime or flashlight tours, but during some ghost-hunting events organizers discourage blinding flashes (they usually rely on redite flash to preserve night vision). Always check each tour’s rules. Tripods and video cameras are fine for personal use, but as noted earlier, don’t use any wired or line-powered lighting rigs . And of course, don’t touch anything in the buildings just for a photo — stay respectful of the historical artifacts.
What happens if I arrive after hours?
You should never attempt to visit after hours without a reservation. The gates are locked when no tours are running, and staff expressly forbid unauthorized nighttime trespassing . Visitors who tried it have been escorted off or even reported to police. If you find the gate open at night, do not enter the property (you’re only allowed to drive through and turn around). Instead, call the event organizer to confirm next-day plans. In short: stick to booked tours and do not arrive outside official hours.
Is the visit suitable for people with mobility issues?
Not really. The old buildings have many steps, narrow halls and uneven floors, with few accommodations for wheelchairs or walkers. There are no elevators, ramps or lifts in the historic areas. Only a short stretch near the entrance might be level. Visitors with significant mobility limitations may find it very difficult or unsafe to navigate. If you have a scooter or wheelchair, it would be best to enjoy the experience from outside or in very limited areas. Always ask staff about accessible paths – they are limited.
Is the Sanatorium actually haunted?
That’s a matter of belief. The Sanatorium has a strong reputation as a “haunted” place – many visitors report strange sights or sounds. In fact, paranormal investigators claim it’s “a prime location for hearing disembodied voices and apparitions” . While there’s no scientific proof, these stories help fuel the venue’s aura. If you’re curious about ghosts, rest assured that the site actively plays up its spooky lore (with flashlight tours and ghost hunts). If you’re more skeptical, the Sanatorium still makes for a fascinating historical tour dressed in an eerie atmosphere.
Is there a gift shop or food stand on site?
No. The Sanatorium itself has no cafeteria, souvenir shop or snack bar. The experience is very much outdoors/old building – any food or drink you want should be brought along or obtained in town beforehand. The only “amenities” are minimal: during some tours you might find a table with coffee or packaged snacks set up by the guides, but don’t count on it. Similarly, the only merchandise you’ll see is at special events (some vendors bring occult or Sanatorium-themed items). If you want a meal or a souvenir, best to go to Rockville or prepare your own.
