Scales Lake Park offers a variety of glamping options near Boonville, Indiana, with surrounding forest areas situated at approximately 400 feet elevation. The area features small lakes ideal for fishing and non-motorized boating activities with electric motors permitted on certain waterways. Camping facilities range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots with separate loops designed for different camping preferences.
What to do
Hiking trails: Multiple trail networks wind through the Hoosier National Forest with varying difficulty levels. At Indian-Celina Recreation Area, "the Two Rivers Trail is a nice 15ish mile technical trail that goes around both lakes, with dispersed camping $5 a night, 300 ft off the trail and your good." Trails are well-maintained but can be challenging in places.
Fishing opportunities: Most lakes in the region permit fishing with proper licensing. According to visitors at Scales Lake Park, "peaceful and quiet with a small trolling only lake and swimming area." The small fishing piers are typically handicap accessible adjacent to designated parking areas.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. At Warrick County Park Scales Lake Park, you might encounter "a small petting zoo at the park and in the morning they let the animals out to feed on the grass. So expect to see them in the campground. Harmless and unique."
What campers like
Privacy options: Many campgrounds offer secluded sites away from busier areas. At Hoosier National Forest North Face Loop Campground, one camper noted, "We got that in #7 camp in north loop. We felt like we own the place!" The north loop provides more privacy than the busier south loop.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness consistently receives positive mentions. A camper at Miles Landing Campground reported "the bathrooms were probably the cleanest, nicest shower houses I've seen at a campground." Most campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules for all facilities.
Diverse camping layouts: Campgrounds feature various site configurations to suit different needs. One visitor to Scales Lake Park explained, "We had 3 RVs in our group and we camped in one of the 'wagon wheels'. It was a very cool experience." These wagon wheel layouts allow for communal camping while maintaining some privacy.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Proximity to neighbors depends on which campground and loop you select. At Scales Lake Park, "The sites are very close together, so when the campsites are full you don't feel like you have much privacy or personal space." Consider booking primitive sites for more seclusion.
Wildlife interactions: Beyond typical forest wildlife, some campgrounds have domestic animals. As one camper mentioned, "There is a small petting zoo which was great but the animals seemed very discontented." Prepare for potential encounters with both wild and domestic animals.
Seasonal considerations: The best times to visit are spring and fall for milder temperatures. At Harmonie State Park Campground, "I like camping there in early spring and late fall the best and for least amount of people." Summer brings higher humidity and increased insect activity.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Most parks offer dedicated play areas for children. A visitor noted, "My daughter enjoyed the playground and the petting zoo, and we'd probably like to come back, just maybe not on such a busy weekend." Weekdays typically see fewer visitors.
Swimming options: Several parks have designated swimming areas with varying facilities. One visitor commented, "Beach area with small fee. Full hook up sites." Swimming areas may have seasonal operating hours, typically Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Educational opportunities: Some parks feature nature programs and interpretive trails. At Indian-Celina Recreation Area, "the interpretive trail by Celina Lake is about 1 mile and has small signs with historical information." These programs typically run on weekends during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for potentially uneven sites at some campgrounds. One RVer mentioned, "Our spot was great and didn't require much leveling. We did get a deluxe spot. However we only got the spot because at the others were sold out. Many of the other Spots were on hills."
Electrical service: Power availability varies by campground. At Miles Landing Campground, "Full hookups on every site, have in trees half in direct sun. Lots of full time residents, but very clean and very friendly. Will fit any size rig, or tents." Call ahead to confirm amperage available at specific sites.
Road access: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. One visitor noted, "The streets in the town are extremely narrow, making it hard to get into the park." Consider scouting routes before arriving with larger RVs or trailers.
