Hiking enthusiasts will find multiple trail options at Charlestown State Park Campground, including the notable Rose Island trail that leads to ruins of a historic theme park. The campground sits on 196 paved sites within Indiana's state park system, offering both electric-only and full-hookup options for RVs up to 40 feet.
The campground operates year-round with concrete pads and minimal shade coverage across most sites. Greg S. notes the facility is "very large and very well kept" with good spacing between sites. Several reviewers mention the Paw Paw Loop area, particularly sites 143-154, as more private and shaded options. Bath houses receive consistent praise for cleanliness, though some campers report brief cold water bursts in the shower systems.
Trail access proves convenient, with some sites offering direct trailhead connections. The Rose Island trail requires navigating a steep paved hill but rewards hikers with bridge crossings and historical ruins exploration. Multiple hiking routes can be combined for longer outings, and the park's road network accommodates cycling. Ohio River access includes a boat ramp for water activities and fishing opportunities in connected creek systems.
Road conditions within the campground show some wear, with a few sections requiring slower speeds. The park's large size means driving distances to various amenities and trailheads. Staff presence can be limited, though facilities maintain good condition overall. Sites outside Charlestown provide additional camping alternatives for the region.
Reservations are recommended, especially for full-hookup sites and shaded locations. The campground's quieter atmosphere compared to pools-equipped parks attracts campers seeking fewer crowds and more trail-focused stays.
Description
Once a largely undeveloped portion of the Indiana Army Ammunition plant, Charlestown State Park is located in Clark County along the Ohio River in southern Indiana. With over 5100 acres it is Indiana’s 3rd largest state park providing plenty of room for making memories naturally. The park is easily accessible; located 8 miles east of I-65, on State Road 62. With scenic vistas of the Fourteen Mile Creek valley and the Ohio River and elevation changes of over 200 feet, Charlestown has so much to offer its visitors. Its rugged hills, deep ravines, and remnants of a 1920’s era amusement park provide a glimpse into both the natural and cultural history of the area. Over 15 miles of trails ranging from easy to rugged, take you into the forest where you will see wildflowers, fossil outcroppings, and areas of karst topography which include large sinkholes. Bird watchers will enjoy over 70 species of birds, including bluebirds, black vultures and the occasional bald eagle that will make an appearance. The park’s large campground features AA sites (water, sewer, and electricity) as well as Class A sites (electricity only) and modern comfort stations. A large boat ramp provides access for boaters who wish to spend their days on the mighty Ohio.
ONLY ONE VEHICLE PERMITTED AT EACH CAMPSITE! ALL ADDITIONAL VEHICLES MUST USE THE OVERFLOW PARKING LOT.
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FALLS OF THE OHIO STATE PARK – 15 MILES
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CLIFTY FALLS STATE PARK - 32 MILES
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HARDY LAKE - 30 MILES
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DEAM LAKE - 25 MILES
GPS/Mapping Address:
12500 State Road 62
Charlestown, IN 47111
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
From Nov. 7, 2025, until March 1, 2026, the campground will be closed for drainage and asphalt repairs. There will be no camping available during this closure. In addition, the Ohio River boat ramp and portions of the main park road will be closed for drainage and asphalt repairs. The main park road will be closed just past the Rose Island intersection, and no traffic will be allowed to the river during this time. The park is still open for day visits. You can find nearby camping at Deam Lake SRA or Clifty Falls State Park.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCharlestown State Park Campground is located in Indiana near Charlestown
Directions
Follow I-65 to I-265E to IN-62 E/E 10th St/Ohio River Scenic Byway in Jeffersonville. Take exit 10 from IN-265 E to access IN-62 E. At the traffic circle, take the exit onto IN-62 E/E 10th St/Ohio River Scenic Byway. Continue to follow IN-62 E/Ohio River Scenic Byway for roughly 8 miles. Destination will be on the right.
Address
3000 State Park Drive Charlestown, IN
Charlestown, IN 47111
Coordinates
38.44818319 N
85.64405275 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/29/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/2/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/29/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/2/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 25 min from Louisville, KY
- 1 hr from Elizabethtown, KY
- 1 hr 1 min from Columbus, IN
- 1 hr 39 min from Bloomington, IN


















































