Campgrounds near Santa Claus, Indiana sit within the rolling hills of southern Indiana, with elevations ranging from 400-700 feet. The area features a mix of hardwood forests surrounding several man-made lakes. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while winter nights often drop below freezing, requiring appropriate camping gear for each season.
What to do
Hiking trails: The 5.9-mile Tipsaw Lake Trail at Tipsaw Lake offers a technical but enjoyable excursion through rolling hills. "The trail is not difficult, it's hilly and technical, but an enjoyable excursion. The trail and picnic area needed some maintenance as in being cut back and down, this and the recent rain made ticks bad so pack your bug stuff and pants if you plan to hike," notes Shelly S.
Kayaking and fishing: Saddle Lake in Hoosier National Forest provides calm waters perfect for paddling. "Pretty drive going in. The place seems to be well maintained, for $5 per night it sure is a good deal. The lake was a bit small but there's hardly a lot of people around so I think it would be great for kayaking or even fishing," says Rica Z.
Historical exploration: Just across from Lincoln State Park is the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial. "This park has the Lincoln boyhood memorial that is a must see," shares Keith M. from his experience at Lake Lincoln Campground. The memorial includes historical exhibits and reconstructed buildings from Abraham Lincoln's youth.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Lake Lincoln Campground, the campsite layout provides good separation. "Sites are well spaced. Clean, professional state park," reports Tom B. Many sites are nestled among trees, giving campers a sense of seclusion even when the park is busy.
Clean facilities: Patoka Lake campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms. "Bathhouses are kept clean and staff is friendly. Book online using Reserve America to make sure site is available," advises Danielle M. The park also features a nature center that many visitors enjoy.
Halloween events: Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph has special October activities that draw many visitors. "We went to Lake Rudolph for their Halloweekends and it is a one of a kind experience. They have so many activities for the kids such as hayrides, a DJ, pumpkin carving, and so many other things throughout the day! It was so neat seeing the campsites and golf carts decorated and lit up at night," explains Ashley D.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially during summer and holiday weekends. "Lincoln State Park is usually packed. It's less than 10 miles away from Holiday World. I think a lot of theme park visitors camp here," notes Danielle M.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures with highs in the 60s-70s°F. Summer can bring temperatures above 90°F with high humidity. "Summer gets pretty sticky with humidity, so bring fans for your tent."
Lake conditions: At Scales Lake Park, swimming is available but conditions vary. "Peaceful and quiet with a small trolling only lake and swimming area," mentions Andi W. Some lakes in the area are currently undergoing maintenance, with Tom B. noting at Lake Lincoln that "Lake is being drained, so no beach until 2026."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Indian-Celina Recreation Area offers excellent options for families. "Clean, quiet, uncrowded. Friendly manager," says Keith L. The campground features easy lake access and relatively level sites.
Playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas near the water. At Jackpine Loop Campground, "The beach has a play area for children right on the beach which makes it ideal for parents," explains Cathleen T.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Vastwood County Park provides chances to see local wildlife. "Beautiful lakeside campsites. Great for small groups or individuals," says Michael S. The park features trails where deer and wild turkeys are commonly spotted, especially in early morning or evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Patoka Lake, choosing the right site makes a difference. "Our campsite had Great Lake views and a nice path to get down to the lake. Bathrooms and showers were clean," shares Tonya D. RVers recommend checking site dimensions before booking.
Limited maneuverability: Some campgrounds have challenging layouts for larger rigs. "Sites are nice, but small if you rv camp. We have a 29 ft. camper and could only use 3 or 4 of the sites," reports Ronald H. about Saddle Lake Campground.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. "Catbrier Loop is the more wide open campground with large RV sites, a pit toilet, pavilion and small field for group events and a path to the beach," notes Shelly S. about one of the loops at Tipsaw Lake. At some campgrounds, water fill stations are only available at central locations rather than at individual sites.
