Mitchell, Indiana camping sites range from state-managed sites with modern amenities to remote federal forest locations with minimal facilities. The area sits at approximately 675 feet above sea level within the Crawford Upland physiographic region, characterized by dissected plateaus and steep valleys. Most campgrounds remain accessible throughout early spring to late fall, with winter camping available but facilities often limited from December through March.
What to Do
Water activities on Patoka Lake: The 8,800-acre lake provides swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. "We stayed in the Fishermans Primitive Campground. Our spot had full shade, a picnic table, a fire pit, and enough room to park two vehicles," shares a Patoka Lake Campground visitor.
Hiking through geological features: Many campgrounds connect to trail systems traversing limestone outcroppings and stream valleys. At Youngs Creek Horse Camp, a camper noted, "The chorus frogs do roar through the night. 100% worth it, make sure to bring bug spray, and travel carefully up the roads. Lots of wildlife, and kind people."
Mountain biking: Trail systems in Martin State Forest include 7 miles of mountain bike trails through varied terrain. "Great trials. Tent campsites were well spaced out. Bathrooms was a porta potty. Water was available at public playgrounds but did not see any near our campsite," reports a visitor.
What Campers Like
Lake access campsites: Waterfront sites allow fishing directly from camp. "We stayed at site 21 which was right on the lake. All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet," notes a reviewer at Starve Hollow State Rec Area.
Educational programs: Nature centers and ranger-led activities enhance the camping experience. "They had a Smokey the Bear program for the kids and some really fun activities at the nature center while we were there. We were able to rent a paddle boat for $8/hr and saw tons of turtles!" shares a Spring Mill State Park visitor.
Cost-effective options: Free camping sites provide basic accommodations in natural settings. "I found this place a few years ago and it has become my local go to. It is free camping and first come first serve. There are vault toilets. Plenty of space to spread out," mentions a Blackwell Campground user.
What You Should Know
Site conditions vary significantly: Some sites present leveling challenges. According to one camper at Hardin Ridge, "The fire pits are sinked into the ground which is not my favorite." Another visitor mentioned, "The camp sites were large and well-shaded with tables and fire pits/grates."
Restroom facilities differ by location: While many sites offer modern facilities, others provide only vault toilets. "Campground is very basic with clean level sites. Tent, car and van camping friendly, but smaller RV (less than 30 ft trailer or camper) would also do okay," reports a Martin State Forest camper.
Water availability fluctuates: Not all sites provide drinking water, particularly in primitive areas. "No water during colder months so pack it in if you need it," advises a Shirley Creek visitor.
Weather preparedness matters: The area experiences sudden storms during summer months. "We unfortunately had poor weather during our stay and had to leave early because of the threat of thunderstorms and tornadoes/damaging winds. Our vintage pop-up is not the best shelter in severe weather!" notes a Spring Mill camper.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple playgrounds and scheduled programming keep children engaged. "This campground has lots of amenities to offer all the way down to a beach. The only issue we had was having to drive everywhere because the campground is so vast. But bring bug and tick repellant," advises a visitor to Hardin Ridge.
Beach access options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas with varying amenities. "A large beach is available for swimming from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Restrooms, dressing facilities, showers, and food concessions are available to visitors," notes a Starve Hollow camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe native species in natural habitats. "Great getaway for the family. We love this place and camp here 5+ times a year. It's clean and so much to do with kids," shares a Starve Hollow visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully based on rig size and site topography. "In the last year, this campground has changed owners so we gave it a chance and it did not disappoint. A LOT of work had been done. All the outer loop sites are shaded and nicely spaced. The inner loop has full hookups and the outer is electric water," reports a Free Spirit Campground visitor.
Water and electrical hookups: Availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "Hardin Ridge offers many electric, some electric/water, and a few full hookup. Water spigots are heavily spread throughout each loop," notes a Hardin Ridge camper.
Dumping stations: Plan for waste management before arrival. "4 dump stations at exit but still lines due to shear number of sites but things moved quickly," shares a Patoka Lake visitor.
