Hikers and anglers looking to access the Ohio River will find Buzzard Roost Campground tucked into the Hoosier National Forest near Leopold, Indiana. This small Forest Service campground provides five drive-in sites arranged along paved spurs, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. The facility operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted.
The campground sits deep in forested terrain with sites positioned relatively close together. Joe F. notes that "one could probably fit a small pickup and trailer" at most sites, though the Forest Service lists no maximum RV length. Sites 1 and 2 offer the most privacy, allowing campers to position vehicles as natural barriers between neighboring spots.
A short trail leads down to the Ohio River through steep, rocky terrain that requires careful footing. The river access point provides fishing opportunities and water views from a cleared overlook with a bench. Campers report the trail can be challenging, particularly when wet, but the river proximity makes it worthwhile for those seeking water-based recreation.
The facility includes a pit toilet that receives regular maintenance and cleaning. Cell coverage varies by carrier, with AT&T providing one bar of service in most areas. Pat stayed for a week and found the area "very relaxing" when generators aren't running constantly. The paved access road remains in good condition most of the way, with only a short unpaved section at the campground entrance.
For campers seeking more amenities or hookups, Horseshoe Bend RV Campground offers full services about eight miles northeast.
Description
Overview
A scenic location for hiking and camping. Parking areas are available at the first trailhead access and at the picnic/camping spur. Tables, grills, garbage can, info board and a vault toilet are available at the camping area. A scenic overlook and benches are located on the bluffs overlooking the Ohio River. Water is not available on site.
Recreation
This site offers rustic camping, scenic views and wildlife viewing. An ardous 0.5 mile trail from the bluff to the banks of the Ohio River is available.
Facilities
A vault toilet and garbage can is available. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table.
Natural Features
Sandstone rock outcrops, bluffs, hardwood forest, and a scenic overlook platform with views of the Ohio River and Kentucky.
Fee Info
__Camping is free of charge.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBuzzard Roost Campground — Hoosier National Forest is located in Indiana
Coordinates
38.120102 N
86.465578 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/25/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/25/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/25/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/25/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 6 min from Louisville, KY
- 1 hr 13 min from Owensboro, KY
- 1 hr 23 min from Evansville, IN
- 1 hr 29 min from Elizabethtown, KY

















