Best Campgrounds near Chrisney, IN

Campgrounds near Chrisney, Indiana range from developed state parks to private resorts, with most facilities concentrated within a 30-mile radius. Lincoln State Park offers electric sites with water hookups and cabin accommodations approximately 10 miles south of Chrisney, while Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph provides full-service camping with RV, tent, and glamping options near Santa Claus. The Hoosier National Forest lands east of Chrisney contain several recreation areas including Tipsaw Lake and Indian-Celina, where primitive camping and more developed sites are available. Most campgrounds in this region support both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin rentals for those seeking additional comfort.

Seasonal considerations affect campground availability throughout the area, with many facilities operating from May through October. Lincoln State Park and several other developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though amenities may be limited during winter months. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays during summer, particularly at Lake Rudolph and other campgrounds near Holiday World amusement park. The terrain around Chrisney features rolling hills and small lakes, with most campgrounds situated in wooded settings that provide natural shade. Cell service varies considerably throughout the region, with better coverage near towns and limited or no service in more remote forest areas. As one visitor noted, "Have a paper map handy, as there is no cell signal and GPS was spotty" when exploring more remote camping areas in the Hoosier National Forest.

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region, with several campgrounds situated on or near lakes. Tipsaw Lake receives consistently positive reviews for its clear water and fishing opportunities, with one camper describing it as having "beautiful rolling hills" and being "not far from I-64." Lincoln State Park's Lake Lincoln provides swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating options that appeal to families. Primitive camping opportunities exist along Mitchell Creek Road in the Hoosier National Forest, described by visitors as "quiet, secluded, and beautiful" for those with small, self-contained vehicles. Campgrounds throughout the area typically provide fire rings and picnic tables, with most developed sites offering electric hookups. Bathroom facilities range from vault toilets at primitive sites to modern shower houses at state park and private campgrounds.

Best Camping Sites Near Chrisney, Indiana (82)

    1. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph

    33 Reviews
    Santa Claus, IN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4458

    $45 - $101 / night

    "This park is conveniently located beside Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana! There is a wide variety of activities and it's a fun place to camp with family!"

    "This is a fun family Campground located adjacent to holiday world and Splashin Safari. There are golf carts for rent, nice camp stores, pools, playground, putt putt golf course, arcade and more."

    2. Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    22 Reviews
    Lincoln City, IN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4710

    $20 - $100 / night

    "Lincoln State Park is right down the road from Santa Claus , Indiana and Holiday World. Needless to say it was a little busy, but not as bad as the Rudolph RV Park in town."

    "Lake for swimming, fishing, canoe, paddle boat and Jon boat rentals. Hiking trails and fire tower. Typical camp store on site. Gas station with propane about a mile from the camp ground."

    3. Scales Lake Park

    17 Reviews
    Boonville, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 897-6200

    $17 - $140 / night

    "Campsites are tight but all centered around a decent sized bath house."

    "Scales Lake Park is right outside Boonville, In on South Parklane Dr.

    I drove through the RV park, it was okay."

    4. Gobbler's Run Campground — Lincoln State Park

    2 Reviews
    Lincoln City, IN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4710

    $19 / night

    "Hiked through the forest to where Abraham Lincoln grew up in Indiana. Fished the lake caught fish for dinner. Really enjoyed my time here."

    "We enjoyed the many hiking trails and, of course, the lake. This was Rivers first time in the kayak this year so we took it slow. she loved wearing her new lifejacket."

    5. Oakridge Campground

    1 Review
    Chrisney, IN
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 686-0018

    $35 / night

    6. Warrick County Park Scales Lake Park

    3 Reviews
    Boonville, IN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 897-6200

    "The trails were interesting but vacant of trail markers and some plaques were vandalized from years before. Firewood is $8 a bundle and parking is $3 a day."

    7. Vastwood Co Park

    4 Reviews
    Hawesville, KY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 927-8778

    $8 - $20 / night

    "Beautiful lakeside campsites. Great for small groups or individuals."

    "Park features playground, paved biking and walking trails, disc golf, plenty of shade, lake with boat dock (non-motorized boats only), bath house, and dump station."

    8. Saddle Lake Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    11 Reviews
    Leopold, IN
    21 miles
    +1 (812) 547-7051

    $5 / night

    "There are 8-10 spots available, all but one of which are drive-in."

    "This is a centrally located primitive campground that my siblings and I use often for weekend expeditions."

    9. Indian-Celina Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    Saint Croix, IN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 843-4880

    $21 - $44 / night

    "This was a very quiet campsite in southern Indiana. We had a hard time finding dispered camping in the national Forest so we settled for this site."

    "Indian Lake is co-located with Celina Lake and two campground.

    Once you turn off of IN37 you just keep straight to get to Indian Lake."

    10. Tipsaw Lake

    10 Reviews
    Leopold, IN
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 843-4891

    $21 - $70 / night

    "This was my first time camping in Indiana and it did not let me down!"

    "Located in the beautiful rolling hills of southern Indiana not far from I-64 (exit 79)."

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Recent Reviews near Chrisney, IN

403 Reviews of 82 Chrisney Campgrounds


  • Fred R.
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    Cross country trip

    First stop and a Natl park. This place was crazy packed due to concert and drone show. We missed both. It was tight to get into but made it work. Shade trees are plenty with hiking trails all around.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2025

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Nice State Park

    nice state park. several shaded sites w electric and water hookups. clean restrooms. great nature center w ranger tours. several hiking trails w various difficulties

    lots of caving activity in area

    several local restaurants to visit. overlook and 1816

  • Cora P.
    Jul. 15, 2025

    Patoka Lake Campground

    Beautiful and so calm

    I am actually going to say if the beach was open I wouldn't have a bad thing to say. Other than that beautiful park, friendly staff, and clean shower houses.

  • Cora P.
    Jul. 15, 2025

    Sycamore Springs Park

    Kid's LOVE it!

    So much to do with the kids, from swimming in the creek, fishing, campfires, s'mores, fresh black topped roads, and such friendly staff. Clean bathrooms and showers, and beautiful places to visit also. Tons of playgrounds too spread throughout the campground.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2025

    Hoosier National Forest

    Good spot out of the way and close to the Ohio River

    Big spot for almost any type of camper. Deep woods

  • Derek J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2025

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

    Nice, but had incorrect info

    The campground was really nice and relatively quiet. The staff was fairly nice, and even helped us out with a bit of a Karen camper. The sites have an asphalt pad that are mostly level. 50,30,20 amp service in one box. There was no water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank. There is also no sewer hookup at the site which I assumed was wrong, because I have never been to an Indiana state park with sewer hookup on site. The campground is at the back of the park so you do have about a 5 minute drive to get to the main highway. Plenty to explore around the area

  • Shirlee A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Rocky Falls Campground & RV Park

    Not recommended

    Close to the road and behind a dollar store We came because we thought we can swim but you cannot.

    Everything is old and broken down including the park and toys. And super expensive price for what you are getting.

    Not such good vibes from the people living there. Don’t think it’s suitable for families


Guide to Chrisney

Camping near Chrisney, Indiana, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Patoka Lake Campground is a popular spot for fishing and boating. One visitor mentioned, "Patoka has always had a hype about it for years; big lake, tons of boats, and fishing." The lake is perfect for a relaxing day on the water.
  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Indian-Celina Recreation Area is known for its peaceful trails. A camper shared, "This location is much more laid back than neighboring state parks. It’s low key and quiet." It’s a great place to explore the outdoors.
  • Family Activities: Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph is close to Holiday World, making it a hit for families. One reviewer noted, "Our family enjoyed the amenities and the easy 'special entrance' shuttle to Holiday World."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at many sites. A review for Indian-Celina Recreation Area stated, "The restrooms were spotless and modern." Clean facilities make for a more enjoyable stay.
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campers enjoy the spaciousness of sites at Patoka Lake Campground. One visitor said, "The spacious campsites add to the allure, providing ample room for relaxation and enjoyment."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff. A review for Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph highlighted, "All of the staff is very friendly."

What you should know:

  • No Water Hookups: If you're heading to Patoka Lake Campground, remember that there are no water hookups. A camper advised, "It's worth noting that there are no water hookups, so remember to fill your tank before arriving at your site."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Scales Lake Park mentioned, "The sites are very close together, so when the campsites are full you don't feel like you have much privacy."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A camper at Buzzard Roost Campground noted, "AT&T service was ok, but no internet service when things get busy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Check for Activities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. One parent at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph said, "The playground at the lake is perfect for Littles."
  • Bring Bug Spray: Bugs can be a nuisance, especially in warmer months. A camper at Saddle Lake Campground warned, "There were a ton of bugs, so make sure to bring some bug spray."
  • Plan for Shade: Some sites may lack shade, so consider bringing a canopy. A visitor at Indiana Lincoln State Park mentioned, "Not much shade in several spots either so definitely plan to bring a canopy tent."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. A review for Lake Lincoln Campground noted, "Most sites are pretty level."
  • Check Hookup Availability: Ensure the campground has the necessary hookups for your RV. A camper at Diamond Lake Resort Campground mentioned, "Full hookups, good cell service."
  • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, especially on weekends, arrive early. A visitor at Saddle Lake Campground suggested, "There were a bunch of sites still available when we got there in the evening."

Camping near Chrisney, Indiana, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping near Chrisney, Indiana?

Several camping options exist near Chrisney. Harmonie State Park Campground is located in southwest Indiana about 40 miles from Evansville, offering electric sites with shared water access. Tipsaw Lake provides a peaceful option in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, not far from I-64 (exit 79), featuring paved roads with water/electric (50A) sites perfect for kayaking on the small lake that allows only electric motors. Other nearby options include Hoosier National Forest campgrounds and Burdette Park on the outskirts of Evansville.

What amenities are available at Lincoln State Park near Chrisney?

Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park offers 150 electric sites with both 30 and 50 amp hookups and water at each site. The park features two clean shower houses, two dump stations, and a lake for swimming and fishing. Visitors can rent canoes, paddle boats, and Jon boats. The campground includes a camp store on site, hiking trails, and a fire tower. Six handicap-accessible sites are available, though there are no pull-through sites. The location is convenient for families, being close to Santa Claus, Indiana and Holiday World amusement park.

Are there any RV campgrounds in Chrisney with full hookups?

While Chrisney itself has limited full-hookup options, nearby Burdette Park on the outskirts of Evansville offers RV sites with electric and water, with some sites also featuring sewer hookups. The park allows stays from a weekend up to 3 months or longer. For another option with excellent amenities, Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph in nearby Santa Claus provides full-service RV sites and is conveniently located beside Holiday World amusement park, offering a variety of activities for families.