Best Tent Camping near Boonville, IN

Tent camping options near Boonville, Indiana include several dispersed and established sites within driving distance. Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed in Hoosier National Forest offers primitive tent camping with no amenities, while Lake Mauzy East in Kentucky provides more established tent sites approximately 60 miles southwest of Boonville. Springs Valley Recreation Area near Paoli and Newton-Stewart State Recreation Area in Dubois offer additional tent camping opportunities within the region.

Most tent sites in the area feature minimal amenities and require self-sufficiency. Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed consists primarily of roadside pull-offs on public land with no restrooms, fire rings, or picnic tables. Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including water, as drinking water is unavailable at most locations. Lake Mauzy East provides more facilities with tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets. One camper noted that "Lake Mauzy is very quiet. No hookups but if you want to boondock this is a great place." Access roads to some dispersed camping areas may be challenging, particularly after rain, with several reviews mentioning difficulty navigating Mitchell Creek Road.

The tent camping experience varies significantly between locations. Mitchell Creek Road offers secluded forest camping with creek access, though several reviewers described it as "spartan" with limited suitable tent spots. A recent review noted, "It's basically a make your own campsite. OK place if you like to really rough it." Lake Mauzy East provides a more developed experience with lakeside tent pads offering water views. Tent campers at Springs Valley can access hiking trails and kayaking opportunities on the lake, though overnight camping may be restricted. Cell service is limited throughout the region, particularly at dispersed sites, so paper maps are recommended. Wildlife sightings are common, with reports of turtles, birds, and occasional coyotes enhancing the backcountry tent camping experience.

Best Tent Sites Near Boonville, Indiana (6)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Boonville, IN

2 Photos of 6 Boonville Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Boonville, IN

340 Reviews of 6 Boonville Campgrounds


  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 4, 2018

    Hoosier National Forest South Slope Loop Campground

    Glam ping in the woods

    South Slope Loop At Hoosier National Forest is located second campground in on your way to Celina lake. This is the RV friendly campground with electrical hookups for your toys. You give up some privacy and quiet to have your electric as the sites are closer together and of course your neighbor may not be as courteous with the noise said electronics create.

    There is excellent tree cover and you do have some tree block between sites. A nice large newer showerhouse, water points, picnic tables and fire rings to finish off the homeyness.

    All of the hosts that i interacted with were very friendly and went out of their way to assist when they could. The local Ranger Station is located in Tell City and closed on the weekend.

    We spent our time hiking on the Interpretive Trail (1mi)near Celina Lake and Two Rivers Trail (15 mi) which encompasses both Celina and Indian Lake . You can disperse camp for $5 a night as long as you are 300 ft from the trail. And take your bug spray or you may be nothing but a dried out husk by the end of your visit, ticks are horrible right now!

    We spent time at the lake also. Very peaceful, electric motors only so no waves or tubers flying by. There is a small handicap accessible fishing pier adjacent the parking area. A nice area to visit.

  • Sam H.
    Apr. 2, 2023

    Saddle Lake Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Average National Forest campground

    13 total sites, 2 of which are tent/primitive only and set 50ft or so back into the trees. No electric or water. A single vault toilet of average cleanliness, but was stocked with 6 partial rolls of tp. Tent pads are all flat and level, but parking pads are definitely not. It's all gravel roads including the "Saddle Lake Road" entrance all the way from Old State Road 37. There is a parking lot and boat ramp further down the hill at the lake, but state law does not permit swimming from the shore without a designated beach. $5/night fee paid by honor system drop box near camp entrance.

  • N
    Jul. 20, 2016

    Newton Stewart State Rec Area - Patoka Lake

    Good campground, bad weather :(

    Campsites had paved parking pads, picnic table, fire-ring, and electrical hookups. Restrooms and showers were clean. Lot's of open space and nothing really separating you and your neighbors. This SRA is right on Patoka Lake, so there's plenty to do on the water - boating, fishing, floating cabins, beaches. There's also a disc golf course, archery range, and plenty of paved & dirt trails. It also has a great nature center. Unfortunately our trip got cut short due to very high winds, but we will definitely be back!

  • Richy R.
    Apr. 2, 2025

    Lake Mauzy East

    Harris-Dickerson WMA (Free) – A Hidden Gem on the Lake!

    This is an amazing spot for free camping! The tent pads are right by the water, offering stunning lake views. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring, picnic table, and access to toilets—everything you need for a comfortable stay. Despite its remote feel, Walmart is just a 12-minute drive away for any last-minute supplies. We would have loved to stay longer, but incoming storms cut our trip short. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway! No electricity or showers!

  • Tim E.
    Jul. 30, 2018

    Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph

    Not for Little Kids

    We chose this campground due to its proximity to Holiday World and its family friendly atmosphere.

    The Bad: We took our 5 and 3 year old daughters for their first camp out with the plan to do Holiday World the next day. This place has golf carts zipping all over all hours of the day and night. Apparently it is the thing to do to decorate golf carts with bright lights, blairing music, and megaphones. They even has a golf cart parade that went from 8:30-10:40pm and included thrown candy that ran about 30 feet from our tent! There was no privacy between sites, constant noise, and trash all over the ground! As an advocate for leave no trace camping, I was completely disgusted with the amount of trash on the ground at our camp site.

    The Good (there was some): The shuttle to Holiday World was great, the staff were friendly, they have a great mini golf course that the girls loved, a top notch playground, and scheduled kuds activities (many are free). they also have a pool and water slides, but i cant comment on those as we did not try them.

    At the end of the day, we had a great trip. but if i were to stay here again it would have to be a more secluded camp site without the constant buzz of golf carts. And I sure hope the amount of trash we saw was a fluke.

  • Sarah R.
    Jan. 20, 2021

    Saddle Lake Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Primitive Paradise

    This is a centrally located primitive campground that my siblings and I use often for weekend expeditions. The long winding gravel road takes you away from the highway and deposits you in a serene location that is perfect no matter which season you visit. Each site offers ample space for multiple vehicles and occupants; each site also has a picnic table, double lantern hook, and a nice iron fire ring with a swiveling grate. We have spent many weekends here and have never had any issues with any of the other patrons. Each site is $5 a night, they use the honor system, and they have a pit vault bathroom that is usually in pretty clean condition.

  • V
    Jun. 20, 2021

    Saddle Lake Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Straightforward little campsite

    There are 8-10 spots available, all but one of which are drive-in. I think a smaller RV or third-wheel could get into the first and last spots, otherwise, all the spots looked suitable for tent or hammock camping. 

    We had enough Verizon coverage to get emails and make calls but not enough to have worked on for a longer stay. The campsite is near Saddle Lake and it is walkable at a stretch but there is no swimming allowed there. Based on the other visitors, fishing is the main draw here. The sites were somewhat divided by trees and undergrowth but you will see or hear other campers and the occasional truck flying up the nearby gravel road at 2 am. Site #11 is more private and not visible from the drive in, it is on the right as you pull in going toward the lake.

    Collecting firewood is not permitted here. Bring whatever you need out, I did not see anywhere to get ice or firewood between the campsite and I-64.

    The vault toilet was adequately clean. 

    Dry camping (no water). 

    All drive-in sites had a fire pit and picnic table. 

    We had a hook for trash and whatnot. Be advised that bears are only very rarely seen in Indiana but the racoons are ruthless and highly organized.

    I wrote about my visit here: Saddle Lake camping un-fails

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 7, 2018

    Hoosier National Forest Goldenrod Loop Campground

    Meet me at Tipsaw

    Goldenrod group campground at Tipsaw Lake Recreation area Hoosier National Forest is laid out in a lollipop design with no sites at the circle. It is an excellent group camp area cause it’s all you. Reservable and self contained with its own pit toilet , picnic tables and fire rings and you can easily set up a get together area near the entry. However...if you want a shower the showerhouses are a short walk down to the adjacent areas. 

    The beach facilities are also within easy walking distance and the boatramp is right next to the beach. 

    There is the 5.9 mile Tipsaw Lake Trail to hike, pay attention to your map and trail signs, we lost the trail twice and meandered around some before finding it again.

    If you pack everything you need ( I’m never that lucky) you can park your vehicle for the duration of your visit. If, like me, there’s always something that got left sitting on the kitchen floor....then you are in luck! Citgo is south down IN 37 and Tell City with a Wally World and fast food is not to far beyond that.

    And if you want to add some more adventure and hiking to your stay there is a zipline Eagles Wing and additional trail Mogan Trail (24ish miles shared with horse back riders) south on IN 37.

  • Joe F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2023

    Buzzard Roost Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Cliff top camping

    Stayed here one night, got in around midnight. Had no issues locating it, nice hard top the entire way there. The site has 5 camp sites that are pull off spurs with a decent parking space. One could probably fit a small pickup and trailer. Each site has a fire ring and a picnic table. There's a restroom, bring your own TP. The sites are close and there isn't much for privacy between most of the sites. I found site 1 and 2 had the most privacy as one could use their vehicle to block some view. They are marked on bollards that ring the parking spaces. There's a nice trail that overlooks the river and has a cleared vantage point with a bench. All in all I liked it and there was only one other vehicle when I was here. Oh and I didn't see any trash on my site. A little in my fire ring but it was all paper products so free kindling?


Guide to Boonville

Tent camping options near Boonville, Indiana include several sites within Hoosier National Forest and surrounding areas. The region features limestone karst topography with numerous caves, sinkholes and sandstone outcroppings that create unique camping environments. Most sites are situated between 400-750 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak camping season from May through September.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: At Newton-Stewart in Dubois, anglers can access 45 primitive spots designed primarily for fishing excursions. According to Steve D., the campground is basic but functional, noting it's a "Fisherman campground" with primitive facilities.

Kayaking calm waters: Springs Valley Rec Area near Paoli offers excellent paddling experiences despite overnight camping restrictions. Gary P. explains, "This is still a beautiful lake for hiking, fishing, and my favorite, kayaking. Electric motors only, so nice and quiet." The restriction to electric motors creates a peaceful environment ideal for novice paddlers.

Wildlife observation: The forests surrounding Mitchell Creek Road host diverse wildlife with minimal human disturbance. Jaymi A. reports, "The thick forest was beautiful. There are rock outcroppings along this road, which follows Mitchell Creek and lots to explore on foot." Campers commonly spot turtles crossing roads, and night brings sounds of active nocturnal creatures.

What campers like

Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed appeals to those seeking isolation. One camper shared, "While I was exploring and camping on this road, only two vehicles passed during the entire 16 hours. VERY quiet." This minimal traffic creates an authentic backcountry experience despite being within driving distance of Boonville.

Lakeside camping: Lake Mauzy East in Kentucky offers premium waterfront sites with basic amenities. Richy R. describes it as "an amazing spot for free camping! The tent pads are right by the water, offering stunning lake views." The combination of water access and established sites creates a comfortable experience without fees.

Wildlife encounters: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife throughout the region. At Lake Mauzy, Adrianne observed "tons of birds, and we saw snake mounds but not yet seen one...birds and butterflies and owls." These encounters enhance the camping experience without requiring special equipment or skills.

What you should know

Limited facilities: Most camping areas require complete self-sufficiency. At Yellowbank Creek in Kentucky, only basic toilet facilities exist with no drinking water or other amenities. Pack accordingly with sufficient water and supplies for your entire stay.

Road conditions: Access to several sites requires navigating unpaved roads that deteriorate after rainfall. Sabrina C. noted about Mitchell Creek Road, "Road south coming in was destroyed some time ago have to enter from east or west road." Large vehicles and trailers face particular challenges on these narrow access routes.

Site limitations: Many areas offer minimal designated camping spots. Phil L. explains that Mitchell Creek Road "is not a camp ground" but rather "just a couple of sites along the road... at the trail crossing for horses, hikers, and bikers." Arriving early during peak seasons increases chances of securing suitable spots.

Tips for camping with families

Safety considerations: Remote locations require additional planning for families. Sofia A. advises caution at Mitchell Creek Road, noting "If you are solo female traveler don't even waste your time. After 5 min of driving on the very skinny gravel road I saw what looked like spots but I'm not sure really."

Supply access: When camping with children, knowing proximity to supplies becomes essential. Woodland Hills Campground offers a central location with easier access to Boonville for restocking supplies. For Lake Mauzy East, Richy R. notes "Walmart is just a 12-minute drive away for any last-minute supplies," providing reassurance for families needing emergency items.

Weather preparedness: Summer storms develop quickly in the region, potentially affecting camping conditions. Richy R. shares, "We would have loved to stay longer, but incoming storms cut our trip short," highlighting the importance of monitoring weather forecasts and having contingency plans when camping with children.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most of the best tent camping near Boonville involves sites unsuitable for larger RVs. Jaymi A. warns about Mitchell Creek Road, "I did not see any pull offs that would accommodate an RV of any size, and nothing large enough to turn a trailer around. One pull off was nearly too small to turn around my small pick up truck."

Boondocking options: For self-contained units, several locations offer peaceful experiences without hookups. Tammy says about Lake Mauzy, "No hookups but if you want to boondock this is a great place." Small trailers and truck campers fare better than large motorhomes on the limited access roads throughout the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Boonville, IN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Boonville, IN is Mitchell Creek Road Dispersed with a 2.6-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Boonville, IN?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 tent camping locations near Boonville, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.