Established Camping
Indian-Celina Recreation Area
Indian-Celina Recreation Area, near Bristow, Indiana, is a peaceful spot tucked away in the Hoosier National Forest, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. With a mix of tent, RV, and glamping options, it caters to various camping styles while providing a laid-back atmosphere.
The campground is known for its spacious, private sites surrounded by tall trees, offering a serene environment for relaxation. Visitors rave about the clean facilities, including modern restrooms and well-maintained vault toilets. One camper noted, “The bathrooms were very clean, even the vault toilets, and had the best TP in them.”
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of trails to explore nearby, and while swimming isn't allowed in the lakes, fishing is a popular activity. Campers have enjoyed catching bass and bluegill in the area, with one reviewer highlighting the “great fishing” available at the nearby lakes.
If you're looking for a quiet getaway with friendly hosts and a chance to connect with nature, Indian-Celina is a solid choice. Just remember to bring your kayak or paddleboard for some fun on the water!
Description
USDA Forest Service
Hoosier National Forest
Overview
The Indian-Celina Lake Recreation Area is a tranquil getaway in the midst of the Hoosier National Forest. Both the Celina and Indian Lakes are within the area, offering camping, boating, fishing and hiking, as well as tours of a historic site.
Recreation
Indian and Celina lakes are two of four fishing lakes along Highway 37. The lakes offer many miles of shoreline and coves for fishing for pan fish. Boat ramps are open year-round, and an accessible fishing pier is available on Celina Lake. Anglers can expect a variety of catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. The sandstone block, historic Rickenbaugh House was built in 1874 and is open to visitors periodically throughout the year. The home and adjacent historic cemetery are popular among visitors. A variety of hiking trails exist within the area, including the relatively easy, 1 mile Rickenbaugh Interpretive Trail, which is located behind the historic Rickenbaugh House. The Two Lakes Loop National Recreation Trail encircles both Indian and Celina lakes and winds through many acres of natural and peaceful forests. The trail is 16 miles, but can encompass multiple, shorter day hikes.
Natural Features
The area is located in south-central Indiana, in a dense hardwood and pine forest, on 152-acre Indian and 164-acre Celina lakes. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area.
Nearby Attractions
Special Places on the Hoosier National Forest Brooks Cabin Buffalo Trace Carnes Mill Site Clover Lick Barrens Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower Initial Point Lick Creek African American Settlement The Jacob Rickenbaugh Homestead Wesley Chapel Gulf
Fee Info
Each campsite fee includes a camping unit (tent,camper) & one vehicle (single sites) and two vehicles (double sites). There is a $8.00 charge per day for the second vehicle, and $8.00 charge per day for any additional vehicle (must be paid at time of check-in). Maximum two vehicles per single site, and four vehicles per double site. There is a surcharge for the site with electric and water. Annual Boat/Day Use Pass: $50.00 each (sticker must be applied to the windshield of the registered vehicle) $30.00 each additional in the same household. May be used at Hardin Ridge, Indian-Celina and Tipsaw Recreation Areas.
Location
Indian-Celina Recreation Area is located in Indiana
Directions
From St. Crois, Indiana, travel south on State Route 37 about 2 miles to the Indian-Celina Recreation Area sign. Turn right and continue to the campground.
Address
Indian-Celina Lake Recreation Area
20230 St Croix Pl
Bristow, IN 47515
Coordinates
38.1991667 N
86.5983333 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
Drive Time
- 53 min from Louisville
- 56 min from Owensboro
- 59 min from Evansville
- 1 hr 16 min from Elizabethtown