Camping near Clarksville, Indiana ranges from riverside options to more secluded forest settings across southern Indiana's rolling hills. The terrain features a mix of deciduous forests with elevation changes from 400 to 700 feet above sea level, providing varied camping environments within a 20-mile radius of Clarksville. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-40°F, while summer months average 70-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking on rugged trails: At Charlestown State Park Campground, multiple trails offer challenging terrain. "Spent 5 nights and had a wonderful time. Enjoyed trails, big lots and lots of stuff for the kids to do," shares Burns G. The park features trails with significant elevation changes, particularly Trail 6 with its waterfalls.
Kayaking on calm waters: Deam Lake State Recreation Area offers no-wake waters perfect for beginners. As camper John G. notes, "The lake doesn't allow non electric motors so waters were calm. Caught some bluegills." Kayak rentals are available during summer months for $15-20 per hour.
Disc golf courses: Buffalo Trace Park features a popular disc golf course alongside other activities. "Disc golf is the big activity at this park. Awesome walking path and a petting zoo," according to Kelsie E. The 18-hole course winds around the lake with both wooded and open fairways.
What campers like
Historical exploration: The Rose Island area at Charlestown State Park offers glimpses into the past. "Rose Island is very cool- Haunting but sublime. The paved trail to see Rose Island is about 1/2 mile long hill that is very steep in parts," explains Greg S. The ruins date back to a 1920s amusement park destroyed in the 1937 flood.
Biking opportunities: Jefferson Memorial Forest provides access to numerous trails. "You are literally ten minutes from anything you want or need. Once you get to the top of the hill you are far removed from the noise, hustle and bustle of city/suburb living," notes Mike G. The park connects to urban trails that extend into Louisville.
Spacious campsites: Most campers appreciate the room between sites at Buffalo Trace Park. "The sites are well-spaced and there's a beautiful lake where you can kayak, canoe, fish, let your dog swim, etc. The park is exceptionally clean," says Kelsie E. Most sites offer at least 30 feet between camping pads.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Several campgrounds experience railroad noise. At Louisville North Campground, campers note, "There is a family of skunks on the front of the park, not sure where they live, but they roam every night. Beware! We heard the train, it's super close and loud, but of course it only runs at midnight and 2 am."
Airplane flight paths: Jefferson Memorial Forest sits under air traffic routes. One camper explains, "This is a great little well-kept campground. Unfortunately it's in the departure path of Louisville's airport, so be prepared for once-a-minute takeoffs if the airport is using its southbound runways for departures. UPS releases about 100 planes from around 3-5am."
Limited facilities at trailheads: Primitive camping options exist but require preparation. At Jackson Trailhead, a reviewer notes, "There's parking after a decrepit gravel road and suitable for camping. There are campsites along the trail just have to find them." No water or toilet facilities are available at these remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for beginners: Deam Lake offers cabin alternatives for those new to camping. "We stayed last night in the Cardinal Cabin. Tons of privacy and the best bathrooms I have ever seen. Not a single bug and they even had antibacterial hand soap at every sink," reports Angela F.
Playground access: Charlestown State Park provides playground equipment, though limited. One visitor comments, "The campground playground is small, not much to write home about. Nice flat paved loops and sites that are good for biking."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas during warmer months. Buffalo Trace Park has a designated beach, though availability varies seasonally. "The beach was closed that entire time we camped. The lake was so shallow that it was hard to use my boat," notes Charles R., suggesting checking ahead during summer visits.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing constraints: RV site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds. At Louisville North Campground, one camper advises, "When people say tight, they mean it here. Wouldn't classify this as a campground at all. We have never stayed in a place that the spaces were this close. We have a 41' Class A towing and I don't think we would fit of any bigger."
Leveling requirements: Bring adequate leveling equipment for uneven sites. At Buffalo Trace Park, "Make sure you have plenty of leveling blocks. We used all of ours and was not level," recommends Curtis J., who successfully parked a 37-foot travel trailer despite the campground being designed for smaller units.
Full hookup availability: Brooks RV Park offers complete services for longer stays. "All 50 amp full hook up sites. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit. There is a nice laundromat, and the paved roads were repaved not long ago," explains Dana S., noting it's located just off I-65 in a quieter setting than many closer options.
