Tipsaw Lake
Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jun. 7, 2018

Come one come all

Tipsaw Recreation Area Hoosier National Forest is the place to visit if you have a large group or family event planned.

We had a good time doing basic camping activities while here, nothing flashy just fun water sports, campfire activities and hiking. ( no signal so appreciate the quiet :)

5 camping areas which are mostly group based and reservable. Catbrier Loop is the more wide open campground with large RV sites, a pit toilet, pavilion and small field for group events and a path to the beach. Goldenrod (camping side by side) and Primrose (camping around the loop)offer more shade and area to spread out with pit toilets, picnic tables and fire rings. Dogwood has double RV sites and some singles, and you feel more “in the woods” with full canopy coverage. A showerhouse and pit toilet, picnic tables and fire pits. The largest area is Jackpine Loop, good shade, showerhouse and more privacy. 

The beach area on Tipsaw Lake is very family oriented, nice bathhouse facility, small picnic pavilions on cement walkways and a nice beach with play area for the kids. We did not visit the beach because dogs are not allowed. Adjacent is the boat ramp which is ramp, dock, pit toilet and parking. The dogs had fun here playing in the water along the ramp, not much shore to speak of. 

The Tipsaw Lake Trail is 5.9 miles of technical rolling hills with complete tree coverage. We hiked it and I noticed that it is a little overgrown but overall a nice trail. With all the rain the trail was muddy and several of the small streams still had water in them. Ticks are bad with the rain and overgrowth so apply your bug spray liberally! 

In addition to the recreation area there is the Mogan Trailhead in the area which is shared with horses. A zip line Eagles Wing and Citgo gas station. Tell City to the south has the usual stores and fast food for any needed amenities, the ranger station is also located there but closed on the weekends.

I spoke with several of the camp hosts and they were very informative about the area and took good care of their areas. They also have the firewood if you need some.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Mogan Ridge
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  • Tipsaw Lake Trail
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  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018
  • Me, lost as usual ;)
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  • Review photo of Tipsaw Lake by Shelly S., June 7, 2018